The same logic of apocalyptic ethics undergirds Paul’s letter to the Colossians. As in other letters, he concludes his introductory remarks with a prayer:

And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. (Col 1:9–10)

As in previous examples, this prayer, “to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord,” is in context to the eschatological hope of “the inheritance of the saints in light” (v. 12) and “the kingdom of his beloved Son” (v. 13). With this end in mind, Paul finishes his prayer along the lines of perseverance: “being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy” (v. 11). This prayer fits most comfortably within a Jewish apocalyptic framework. We need the Spirit’s help and empowerment to endure faithfully to the end of this age, increasing in the knowledge of God and walking in a manner that accords with our destiny. - John P. Harrigan