For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;
For - in that respect he 'laboured, striving' (Colossians 1:29). Greek, 'I wish you to know how great a striving (the same Greek х agoona (G73)] as Colossians 1:29; fervent, anxious prayer, along with outward trial, Colossians 1:24; not "striving" with the false teachers, which would have been impossible for him now in prison) I have for you.'
Them at Laodicea - exposed to the same danger from false teachers as the Colossians (cf. Colossians 4:16). This was the cause of his writing to Laodicea as well as to Colosse. Formerly called Diospolis, then Rhoas, finally Laodicea, from Laodice, wife of Antiochus II: on the river Lycus, 18 miles west of Colosse, 6 miles south of Hierapolis. It suffered an earthquake (62 AD) about the date of this letter; but was restored, so 'rich' was it (Revelation 3:17), without aid from Rome.
Not seen my face in the flesh - including those in Hierapolis (Colossians 4:13). Paul considered himself a "debtor" to all the Gentiles (Romans 1:14). His presence ("face") would have been a 'comfort' (Colossians 2:2; Acts 20:38): Colossians 1:4; Colossians 1:7-8 shows he had not seen, but only heard of the Colossians. Hence, he 'strives' with God in prayer for them, to make up for his bodily absence (cf. Colossians 2:5).