Hidden with Christ in God: A Theology of Colossians and Philemon (McFadden)

Is our hope in the gospel of Christ sufficient for our every need? After reflecting on this question during periods of difficult earthly circumstances, Paul wrote two letters to the church at Colossae to express the hidden hope “laid up for you in heaven” (Colossians 1:5) and found in the person of Christ. 

In this volume of the New Testament Theology series, author Kevin W. McFadden focuses on the specific teachings of Paul to examine the theology and themes of Colossians and Philemon. While reading this comprehensive yet concise study, believers will learn what it means to live a Christ-centered life as they explore Christ as hope, our knowledge of God, and our life above in heaven and here on earth. 

Author

Kevin W. McFadden (PhD, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) is professor of New Testament at Cairn University in Philadelphia and the author of Faith in the Son of God.

Endorsements

“Christ is our preeminent hope! Kevin McFadden demonstrates the reality of this grand statement from Colossians and Philemon. More importantly though, he exegetically, theologically, and pastorally applies this divine reality to our daily life ‘in Christ.’ We live in a new realm, one inaugurated by the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of our God and King, Jesus Christ, who is not only preeminent but also sufficient. We have everything we need in him during our pilgrimage here on earth: faith, love, and hope—even in the most dire circumstances. What McFadden shows his readers is the glorious power of a hope-filled gospel that definitively proves one thing: ‘No one is without hope, and we should never give up hope.’ This book will water the garden of your heart with Christ, the hope of glory.”
David E. Briones, Associate Professor of New Testament, Westminster Theological Seminary

“Paul’s letter to the Colossians is focused on the supremacy, rule, and glory of Christ and all that he achieved through the cross. Kevin McFadden faithfully unpacks these themes so that our eyes are drawn to Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and understanding that far outstrip the empty philosophies of this world. McFadden’s book is not just a helpful resource on Colossians and Philemon for students and pastors; it will also encourage the heart of anyone wanting to dig deeper into the wonders of Christ.”
Claire Smith, New Testament scholar; author, God’s Good Design: What the Bible Really Says about Men and Women

“In this volume, Kevin McFadden has made an invaluable contribution to work on Colossians and Philemon. It’s written clear enough for everyone to benefit and substantial enough to satisfy scholars and students of New Testament theology. More importantly, McFadden not only lays out interpretive options but also makes persuasive cases on some exegetically difficult passages—all thoughtfully presented. This book is already helping me understand Paul better in these two letters, and for that, I am grateful.”
Robert S. Kinney, Director of Ministries, Charles Simeon Trust; Priest, Christ Church, Vienna, Austria