this is unlikely.1 In contrast to Paul’s letters to the believers in Galatia, or Corinth, or even Philippi, this letter does not seem to signal the presence of any particular threat.2 Paul had heard of their faith and their love (1:4, 8; 2:5). He knew well that this faith is always under attack. He had a thorough knowledge of the world of alternative ideas in which he and the Colossians lived. Aware of these general and ever-present challenges to Christian faith, but not (in my opinion) of any particular