We have here, I. The inscription, as usual, Col. 1:1, 2. II. His thanksgiving to God for what he had heard concerning them—their faith, love, and hope, Col. 1:3-8. III. His prayer for their knowledge, fruitfulness, and strength, Col. 1:9-11. IV. An admirable summary of the Christian doctrine concerning the operation of the Spirit, the person of the Redeemer, the work of redemption, and the preaching of it in the gospel, Col. 1:12-29.