COLOSSIANS Mirror Study Bible - by Francois Du Toit (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

In this marvelous work, Paul continues to eloquently celebrate the perfection of God's work in Christ, in redeeming their image and likeness in us. His aim is to make the mystery of the gospel known in its most accurate context; the unveiling of Christ in us completes our every expectation. Paul sees the whole world as his audience. He has no other agenda but to reveal Christ in the masses of humanity.

During Paul's imprisonment in Rome in 61 to 63 AD, he wrote Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon and Philippians. The church at Colossae was perhaps the the smallest community of believers to which Paul's epistles were addressed' [Vincent]. But here he gives a most powerful message, unveiled in the incarnate Person of Christ.

Colossians 1:28 This is the essence and focus of our message; we awaken every person's mind, instructing every individual by bringing them into full understanding (flawless clarity) in order that we may prove (present) everyone perfect in Christ.

Colossians 1:15 In him the image and likeness of God is made visible in human life; in order that every individual may recognize their true origin in him; he is the firstborn of every creature.

(What darkness veiled from us he unveiled. In him we clearly see the mirror reflection of our original life. The Son of his love gives accurate evidence of his image in human form. The incarnation means that God can never again be invisible.)

Colossians 2:9 In him, all the fullness of ¹Deity ²resides in a human body. He proves that human life is tailor-made for God. He is the Incarnate Word. In him, the fulness of the Godhead has taken up permanent residence in a human body! And your completeness as a person is only realized in him! Christ reveals that there is no place in the universe where God would rather be; All that the Father, Son and Spirit is, resides in him. Jesus proves that human life is tailor-made for God. Jesus Christ mirrors our completeness; he is I am in us.

Any teaching that leaves you with a sense of lack and imperfection rather than completeness is a distraction from the truth.

Colossians 2:16 Do not let anyone therefore bring a restriction to your freedom by reviving religious rules and regulations pertaining to eating and drinking; also, all Jewish festivals, new moons, and Sabbaths have come to an end in Christ.

The religious facade that disguised the law of works as a means of defining a person's life, was openly defeated. The success of the cross will never be silenced.

Colossians 3:1 Since you are in fact raised together with Christ, relocate yourselves mentally; engage your thoughts with throne room realities.

Colossians 4:4 My sincere desire is that my message will accurately unveil the mystery of Christ in its most complete context. You. This is the mission of my life. (Ephesians 3:9.)

The city, Colossae, was in Phrygia, in the valley of the Lycus, about ten or twelve miles beyond Laodicaea and Hierapolis.

See my commentary note in Revelation 3:15 & 16.

Review Quotes

Reflecting on any translation of Scripture gives one the opportunity to hear our Maker's voice and thoughts, filtered through the interpretation and language of the translator.

In this fresh Paraphrase, Francois du Toit has opened the curtain for readers of any age, culture or language to enjoy amazing insights into the heartbeat of Agape - where everyone feels equally loved, included and valued in the eyes of the Father - and fully redeemed in the union we come from.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu - Legacy Foundation

In a world where Bible translations and paraphrases are ubiquitous, The Mirror Study Bible is uniquely beautiful and helpful. Submitted to the original texts and the abiding guidance of the Holy Spirit, Francois du Toit carefully and meticulously opens and explores the treasures of Scripture. Not only does it satisfy the demands of the intellect, but it overwhelms the heart.

Wm Paul Young - Author of The Shack

The mystery concerning God's Own action in Christ, balanced with the nature and necessity of our human response has defined my personal journey for many years.

When I was introduced to Francois du Toit and The Mirror Study Bible, much of that mystery were resolved. Often, I found myself 'gasping for breath' as some new aspect of the mystery of Christ and His Kingdom emerged with startling clarity.

Francois' love for the text, his sheer exegetical courage and his astonishing ability to express essential biblical pre-suppositions in the intimate Love language of God, has opened for Judith and me a renewed and transformative biblical understanding.

Bob and Judith Mumford - www.lifechangers.org