What a great conflict— The words and metaphors in this and the preceding verse are taken from the athletic exercises in the Grecian games,and express the great solicitude, the kind of agony which St. Paul had upon his mind for them. See 2 Corinthians 11:2. The pains that he took to preach the gospel, and to assert their liberty against such as opposed; the troubles and difficulties which he now underwent upon this account, being actually in bonds for that cause; (ch. Colossians 1:24 Colossians 4:3.) and the earnestness with which he prayed for them, are all comprehended in this expression. Have not seen my face, might be rendered have not seen me in person.
Related Commentaries of Colossians 2:1
Colossians 2:1
1 For I would that ye knew what great conflicta I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;