INTRODUCTORY ISSUES There are many introductory issues relating to the authorship of Colossians. Along with the arguments and issues, there are some debates and questions regarding the date, place, and occasion, but overall, all are in agreement. Many scholars have come to the conclusion that Paul is indeed the author of Colossians, but there is some debate and questioning. There are two main arguments regarding the authorship of the epistle. There is much debate about the literary usage of Colossians and the style in which it is written. Besides the vocabulary and style, many also take issue with the theology behind the epistle. An example regarding the argument for style is found in Colossians 1:27 where the unusual genital words are used. Donald Guthrie argues, however, that “stylistic differences are usually attributable to changing circumstances or subject matter” (Guthrie 553). In asserting that Colossians is not written by Paul, Ephesians should also be questioned. It is said that either the Ephesians depend on the Colossians or the Colossians depend on the Ephesians. Guthrie also asserts that ““The strongest arguments in favor of its authenticity are the indisputable nature of the external evidence and the epistle's inseparable connection with Philemon” (Guthrie). There are also arguments that claim that the heresy in the Colossians is second century Gnosticism. Despite all the arguments, it is obvious that Paul is the author and the proof is shown in Colossians 1:1, 1:23, 4:18 where he speaks of himself in the first person. There is evidence that Tychicus is the bearer of the Ephesians and Colossians. Not only does Paul refer to himself as he does throughout the epistles, but also to the Colossians ... middle of paper ... our concern with the eternal, not the temporal” (Geisler 680). Paul knew that a believer simply cannot always focus on the things above, but as a believer in Christ, it is an obligation to do so. Work cited “Colossians”. NIV Quest Study Bible. London: NIV, 2003. N. pag. Print.Wallace, Daniel B. “Colossians: Introduction, Argument, Overview.” Bible.org. Np, June 28, 2004. Web. May 8, 2014. Walvoord, John F., Roy B. Zuck, and Norman L. Geisler. The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor, 1983. Print. Walvoord, John F., Roy B. Zuck, and Harnold W. Hoehner. “Colossians.” The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor, 1983. 613-45. Print. Wommack, Andrew. “Home – Andrew Wommack Ministries.” Home - Andrew Wommack Ministries Commentary - Colossians. Np, and Web. April 17. 2014.