Colossians 2:5

Absent in the flesh. The apostle would have the believers sense his personal regard for them, even though he is not actually present in person.

With you in the spirit. Paul’s body may be in confinement in faraway Rome, but his heart encompasses the converts he loves. His mind seeks solutions for their problems. His soul is lifted up to their common Father in heaven in thanksgiving and intercession. Thus the apostle draws a contrast between those who would seduce them through sophistries, and their spiritual father, who would, if need be, give his life for them. Those false teachers have ulterior motives; Paul is completely selfless.

Joying and beholding. Epaphras had brought Paul word of the continued faithfulness of the Colossian believers (Colossians 1:7, 8). In his mind’s eye in Rome he watched the members in distant Colossae as they went about their tasks of living and witnessing for Jesus.

Order. Gr. taxis, “arrangement.” This is a common military term. It suggests organization, firmness, and well-ordered battle array (cf. its use in 1 Corinthians 14:40; Hebrews 5:6). Paul had doubtless watched many an army parade, and had seen many a centurion at the head of his well-drilled and perfectly disciplined company. Thus the Colossian church must act against sin.

Stedfastness. Epaphras had done a good work. The Colossian church was a compact spiritual community, moving forward with confidence to meet the common enemy. The battle was joined within the sphere of their faith, their confidence in the things of Christ. Paul is hinting that they should continue in this happy and blessed state.