Colossians 4
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1Masters, give to your servants that which is just and equal, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. 2Continue steadfastly in prayer, watching therein with thanksgiving; 3praying together for us also, that God may open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds; 4that I may reveal it as I ought to speak. 5Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. 6Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one. 7All my affairs will be made known to you by Tychicus, the beloved brother, faithful servant, and fellow bondservant in the Lord. 8I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that he may know your circumstances and comfort your hearts, 9together with Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will make known to you everything that is going on here. 10Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, greets you, and Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you received commandments, “if he comes to you, receive him”), 11and Jesus who is called Justus. These are my only fellow workers for God’s Kingdom who are of the circumcision, men who have been a comfort to me. 12Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, salutes you, always striving for you in his prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. 13For I testify about him, that he has great zeal for you, and for those in Laodicea, and for those in Hierapolis. 14Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas greet you. 15Greet the brothers who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the assembly that is in his house. 16When this letter has been read among you, cause it to be read also in the assembly of the Laodiceans; and that you also read the letter from Laodicea. 17Tell Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you fulfill it.” 18The salutation of me, Paul, with my own hand: remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen.
World English Bible (public domain)
“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.”
Colossians 4:2
Summary
Colossians chapter 4 concludes Paul's epistle with practical instructions and greetings. Paul begins by advising masters to treat their bondservants justly, reminding them of their own accountability to God. He emphasizes the importance of prayer, encouraging persistent and watchful communication with God, seasoned with thanksgiving. Paul also instructs the church to pray for his ministry, especially that he might proclaim Christ clearly and boldly despite his imprisonment. He calls the Colossians to live wisely among outsiders, making the most of every opportunity to witness and ensuring their conversations are gracious and seasoned with salt. Paul then moves to personal instructions and greetings, mentioning several co-workers and fellow Christians by name. Tychicus and Onesimus are noted for delivering the letter and giving updates on Paul's situation. Mark, Barnabas's cousin, is notable for being included despite previous tensions with Paul, revealing reconciliation. Paul closes with greetings from Aristarchus, Epaphras, Luke, and Demas, and instructs the Colossians to exchange letters with the church at Laodicea to foster unity and shared edification. Finally, Paul exhorts Archippus to fulfill his God-given ministry, demonstrating mutual encouragement and accountability within the community. Theologically, this chapter underscores the necessity of prayer, the importance of wise and grace-filled interactions with non-believers, and the power of community in the Christian life. It highlights the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness, as evidenced by the renewed relationship between Paul and Mark, while underscoring a sense of shared mission and support among the early Christians.
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