What does Colossians 2:1 mean?

Paul begins this chapter by sharing his spiritual burden for the Colossian believers. Paul uses the Greek term agōna, which means "conflict, fight, or struggle." It's difficult to fight, spiritually speaking, for those we have not personally met. Discipleship, evangelism, and encouragement are always easier when we can meet others face-to-face. In Paul's case, he is attempting to do the work of an apostle while a prisoner under house arrest in Rome. This complicates his work even further.

Paul's struggle, however, is not for only the Colossian believers. It also includes other churches where he hasn't had the opportunity to visit in person. Laodicea (Colossians 4:13–16), for example, was approximately 12 miles west of Colossae. Epaphras evangelized both of these towns (Colossians 4:12–13). Colossians 4:13 will also mention a third nearby town, Hieropolis, where Paul did not know the believers personally. Despite his lack of personal connection, Paul prays for these believers, writes to them, and represents them from a distance.