In the Ancient Near East, it was the custom to sign a letter at the beginning, whereas today we sign at the end. This letter was written by Paul to the church at Colossae. In this opening verse, we learn that Paul is an Apostle. He is unique because unlike the other Apostles, Paul was called to be an Apostle after Christ’s death and resurrection. He was on his way to persecute the Christians in Damascus when Christ appeared to him and called him to be a Christian himself. This is why he says an Apostle by the will of God. God had called him in a way that was distinct from the other Apostles.
