Colossians, Class 20

In class 20, we learn that Paul’s message of unity in Christ is particularly significant in the diverse city of Colossae, which likely housed all the people groups he mentions in this verse. This would have included both Greeks and Jews, with Greeks generally being ‘uncircumcised' and Jews 'circumcised '.
Colossae was likely home to many 'barbarian' people, a term most Greeks used to describe those who could not speak the Greek language. Among these were the Scythians, who lived along the Black Sea and Caspian Sea. In the eyes of the Greeks, the Scythians were the epitome of barbarism, considered the worst of the worst in the first century.
Slaves, literally "bondservants" from the Greek doulos, were common in Paul's time. At the end of this chapter, he will give spiritual instructions for Christian slaves. In contrast, "free" people were those not obligated to others; these were considered more affluent in society, though they were not always wealthy.
All of these groups are considered equal in Christ's sight. Christ is sufficient for all things, including creating unity among the diverse people who have been made new in Him.