Colossians 1:6

Which is come unto you. In the Greek it is clear that “which” can refer only to “gospel.” Compare v. 23.

In all the world. See on v. 23.

Bringeth forth fruit. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the addition of the words “and increaseth.” A tree produces fruit because it lives and is flourishing. So the Christian continually produces the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22, 23) because the life of Christ is a vital principle within him (see Mark 4:20, 28; Rom. 7:4, 5; Phil. 4:17). The force of Paul’s expression is that wherever the gospel is preached, it constantly brings forth fruit.

Also in you. Paul turns from the general truth that the gospel invariably produces fruit wherever it is proclaimed, to the particular fact that it has done this very thing in Colossae. This church is, therefore, linked with the universal purpose of God for the redemption of men.

The day. For the manner in which the gospel came to Colossae see p. 183.

Knew. Gr. epiginosko, “to recognize,” “to know fully,” “to know by experience.” The verb form should be translated “came to know fully.” This full knowledge comes only by experience, hence only to those who accept the grace of Christ. The true knowledge of God is inseparable from the grace of God.

Grace. See on Rom. 3:24.

In truth. That is, truly. Paul is constantly making subtle contrasts with the false teachings he is about to mention.