I. Introduction 1:1-14
A. Salutation 1:1-2
B. Thanksgiving 1:3-8
C. Prayer 1:9-14
II. Explanation of the person and work of Christ 1:15-29
A. The preeminent person of Christ 1:15-20
1. In relation to God the Father 1:15a
2. In relation to all creation 1:15b-17
3. In relation to the church 1:18-20
B. The reconciling work of Christ 1:21-29
1. As experienced by the Colossians 1:21-23
2. As ministered by Paul 1:24-29
III. Warnings against the philosophies of men ch. 2
A. Exhortation to persevere in the truth 2:1-7
1. Paul's concern 2:1-5
2. Paul's exhortation 2:6-7
B. The true doctrine of Christ 2:8-15
C. The false doctrines of men 2:16-23
IV. Exhortations to practical Christian living 3:1-4:6
A. The basic principle 3:1-4
B. The proper method 3:5-17
1. Things to put off 3:5-11
2. Things to put on 3:12-17
C. The fundamental relationships 3:18-4:1
1. Wives and husbands 3:18-19
2. Children and parents 3:20-21
3. Slaves and masters 3:22-4:1
D. The essential practice 4:2-6
V. Conclusion 4:7-18
A. The bearers of this epistle 4:7-9
B. Greetings from Paul's companions 4:10-14
C. Greetings to others 4:15-17
D. Paul's personal conclusion 4:18
