A Visible Faith

In Colossians 1:3-8 we get a picture of what an active faith looks like. Paul begins his prayer for the Colossians by giving thanks to God for two aspects of their salvation. First, he thanks God for the evidence of the Colossians' salvation, which is works - demonstrated by their faith, love and hope (which is the foundation for their faith and love). Second, Paul thanks God for the foundation of the Colossians' salvation, which is the Gospel - that they have heard and understood, that is continuously bearing fruit, and that is preached.