Colosenses 2:1

For; this causal particle refers to what he had said just before in the former chapter.

I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you; the certainty of which truth, for the evidence of his unfeigned affection to them, he heartily wishes they might be certified what a combat he sustained for them, by reason of that opposition he met with in his ministerial labours. This filled him with inward fears and cares, and encompassed him with outward troubles, as 2 Corinthians 11:23-30; 2 Timothy 2:10, wherein he addressed himself to God for them by earnest prayers, as Colossians 4:12; 2 Thessalonians 1:11, desiring the assistance of their prayers, Romans 15:30; Hebrews 13:18; these, with his travels, writings, &c., might well be called a conflict, Philippians 1:30.

And for them at Laodicea; which he had not only for the saints at Colosse, but for their neighhours, liable also to the impression of the same or the like seducers, at Laodicea, definitely, to whom he designed this Epistle might be imparted, Colossians 4:16.

And for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; and indefinitely, for as many Christians, especially in Phrygia, as had not seen him bodily present amongst them, or heard him preach with a lively voice; whether, because it is said he twice passed through all Phrygia, where Colosse and Laodicea were situate, Acts 16:6; Acts 18:23, he had been personally at these cities, is not determinable from the copulative here, (which possibly may be used as a particle to separate these from those who had not conversed with him), neither is it of much importance. It should seem Paul was acquainted with Philemon, (a Colossian or Laodicean), his wife and family, Philemon 1:1,Philemon 1:2.