For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
For this cause (Colossians 1:8) - as in the games we most urge on those near the victory (Chrysostom) (Ephesians 1:15). Their progress was the impelling cause to Paul's prayer. Unceasing earnestness was its characteristic (Ephesians 1:16): its object was 'that they might be filled,' etc.
We also - on our part.
Heard it (Colossians 1:4).
Pray. He states what in particular he prays for; as in Colossians 1:3, generally the fact of his praying for them.
To desire, х aitoumenoi (G154): more special than proseuchomenoi (G4336): Mark 11:24] - Greek, 'to make request.'
Might (may) be filled - a verb often in this letter (Colossians 4:12; Colossians 4:17).
Knowledge, х epignoosin (G1922)] - 'full (experimental) knowledge.' Akin to 'knew (note Colossians 1:6).
Of his will - how ye ought to walk (Ephesians 5:17): chiefly that 'mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which he purposed in Himself: that in the fullness of times He might gather together in one all things in Christ' (Ephesians 1:9-10): God's eternal "will" to reconcile to Himself men by Christ, not by angels, as the false teachers taught (Colossians 2:18) (Estius). Knowledge was the want among the Colossians, notwithstanding their general excellencies; hence, he so often dwells on this (Colossians 1:28; Colossians 2:2-3; Colossians 3:10; Colossians 3:16; Colossians 4:5-6). He less exile wisdom to the Corinthians, as "puffed up" with the conceit of knowledge.
Wisdom - frequent in this letter, as opposed to the (false) "philosophy" and "show of wisdom' (Colossians 2:8; Colossians 2:23: cf. Ephesians 1:8).
Understanding, х sunesei (G4907)] - sagacity to discern what on each occasion is suited to the place and time: its seat is 'the understanding;' wisdom is more general, and has its seat in the whole of the faculties of the soul. Bengel, 'Wouldst thou know that the matters in the Word of Christ are real? Then never read them for mere knowledge sake.' Knowledge is to be seasoned with 'spiritual understanding.' Ellicott joins 'spiritual (spirit-derived and spirit-characterized) wisdom and understanding' (1 Corinthians 2:13; 2 Corinthians 1:12).