Colossians 4

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 � StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size StandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanUnicode SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsItalicUnicode SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsBoldUnicode SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueSubSuperScriptTypervsssSuperScriptUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsBoldfsUnderlineColorclBlueSubSuperScriptTypervsssSuperScriptUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsItalicfsUnderlineColorclBlueSubSuperScriptTypervsssSuperScriptUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanSubSuperScriptTypervsssSuperScriptUnicode SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsItalicColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsBoldfsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsBoldColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size-9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 �BiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabsStandardSpaceBefore SpaceAfterTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 6 3 3 8 0 0 CHAPTER IV ) Outline of Chapter 4:2 18 ) Theme: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Christ, the Pre-eminent One, the Only and All-Sufficient Savior) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 11 3 8 0 0 II. This Only and All-Sufficient Savior Is the Source of the Believers Life, and Thus the Real Answer to the Perils by Which They Are Confronted, chapters 3 and 4 ) C. Closing Admonitions, Greetings, etc., 4:2 18 ) 4:2 4 1. Prayer urged ) 4:5, 6 2. Wise conduct and gracious speech stressed ) 4:7 9 3. A good word for Tychicus and for Onesimus, who have been sent with tidings and encouragement ) 4:10 15 4. Greetings ) 4:16 5. Exchange of letters requested ) 4:17 6. Crisp directive for Archippus ) 4:18 7. Closing salutation ) 4:2 4 ) I. Prayer Urged ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 4 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 2 Persevere in prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving; 3 at the same time praying also for us, that God may open to us a door for the message, to speak forth the mystery concerning Christ, on account of which I am in prison, 4 (praying) that I may make it clear, (and may speak) as I ought to speak. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 2.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 As Paul is now approaching the close of the letter he issues certain admonitions of a general nature, as in 3:1 17; with emphasis on the positive, cf. 3:12 17. It is not surprising that, having spoken about ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the word) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (3:16), the apostle now stresses the importance of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 prayer,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 for word and prayer belong together: in the former God speaks to us, in the latter we to him. Says Paul: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Persevere in prayer.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Prayer is the most important expression of the new life. As such it is the means of obtaining for ourselves and for others the satisfaction of needs, both physical and spiritual. It is also a divinely appointed weapon against the sinister attack of the devil and his angels, the vehicle for confession of sin, and the instrument whereby the grateful soul pours out its spontaneous adoration before the throne of God on high. Accordingly, perseverance in prayer is urged. See also ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.12|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.18|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.1-44.18.8|AUTODETECT|” . This is in keeping with the teaching of Jesus in which he admonished his disciples to persevere in prayer, and not to lose heart when a petition is not immediately answered 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.1-44.18.8|AUTODETECT|” Acts 18:1 8) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Paul adds, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 keeping alert in it.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 This admonition ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to remain fully awake) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.41|AUTODETECT|” in prayer reminds one of ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.41|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:41) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.38|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.38|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:38) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.40|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.40|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:40) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.46|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.46|AUTODETECT|” 46) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.31|AUTODETECT|” . Yet, in these Gospel passages the wakefulness referred to is to be taken more literally, as the respective contexts indicate. What the apostle has in mind is that, while continuing in prayer, the worshiper shall be alive to such matters as: a. his own needs and those of the family, church, country, world, b. the dangers that threaten the Christian community, c. the blessings received and promised, and (last but not least) d. the will of God. Cf. ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.31|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:31) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.6|AUTODETECT|” ; II Cor. 16:13; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.6|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.5.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.5.8|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 5:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 3:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . From the Greek verb which expresses this necessity of being vigilant a form of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 grgor�M) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (I am awake, I remain alert) the early Christians coined a favorite proper name: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Gregory.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Now when one is deeply and humbly conscious of blessings received and promised he will express his gratitude to God. Hence, Paul continues: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 with thanksgiving.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.20|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.20|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:20) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.18|AUTODETECT|” 6:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.18|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.15|AUTODETECT|” ; and see also above, on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . It is worthy of note that the apostle wedges his admonitions to particular groups (3:18 4:1) in between two reminders to give thanks to God (2:17 and 4:2), as if to say, Wives, husbands, children. fathers, slaves, masters, obey these instructions ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 spontaneously,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 prompted by gratitude for the many blessings received. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 It should be borne in mind that the man who issues this directive is a prisoner. However, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 this) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.12-50.1.14|AUTODETECT|” prisoner is able to thank God even for his chains 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.12-50.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:12 14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.28|AUTODETECT|” ). Surely, on the basis of the thought expressed so beautifully in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.28|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:28) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 the believer can be thankful for whatever happens to him. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 3, 4.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 In these prayers the needs of Paul and his companions must be included. Accordingly, the apostle continues, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 at the same time praying also for us.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref1 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn1” 159) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.2.18|AUTODETECT|” �� Like Daniel before him 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.2.18|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 2:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ), and probably also Esther 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Esth. 4:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ), Paul felt the need of being remembered in prayer. Moreover, Timothy 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.18-49.6.20|AUTODETECT|” ) and Epaphras (4:12) must be remembered similarly, and doubtless also those mentioned in 4:10, 11, 14. This is by no means the only time that the apostle asked to be thus remembered. See above, on 1:9, the parallel columns. See especially ) 15 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.18-49.6.20|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:18 20) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.2-51.4.4|AUTODETECT|” . This passage from Ephesians, in fact, should be constantly borne in mind in the interpretation of ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.2-51.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:2 4) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.25|AUTODETECT|” in its entirety. Brothers, do pray for us 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.25|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:25) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) was Paul s constant appeal. Now when he urged this upon his fellow-workers and fellow-believers he had something very definite in mind. Hence, stating the contemplated result of the prayer, and using an idiom that may have belonged to the common speech of that day,��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref2 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn2” 160) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� as it is also a metaphor among us, he continues, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 that God may open to us a door for the message) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . A ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 door,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 then as now, is an opportunity to enter, a means of approach or access. In the present context it is an opening for ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the word) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 message) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.9|AUTODETECT|” . Cf. ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.9|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.12|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 2:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 3:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Now the apostle did not intend to say: Pray that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 by my release from imprisonment) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.30|AUTODETECT|” I may again be able to proclaim the message of salvation. No, he wanted that door right here and now! That this was not an absurd request, as if it would be impossible for a prisoner to have an open door, is shown by such a passage as ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.30|AUTODETECT|” Acts 28:30) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.31|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.31|AUTODETECT|” 31) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.12-50.1.18|AUTODETECT|” . And if the objection be raised that such freedom as there presupposed did not necessarily continue, and that before his release the apostle was transferred from his rented house to the soldiers barracks, or that in some other way he was placed under stricter custody, the answer is that even this added severity would not completely remove the open door, as is clearly shown in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.12-50.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:12 18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.6.19|AUTODETECT|” . As there indicated, from a certain point of view the seeming disadvantage was in reality an advantage, as Paul s chain made it very clear that his was not a fair-weather religion, but something far more precious and real. Nevertheless, humanly speaking, circumstances could easily change. When Paul made this prayer-request was he thinking, perhaps, of a summons before the Roman tribunal for a hearing, probably not the first one? And is he now saying, in effect, O Colossians, do pray that, when we are called to give an account before the authorities, we may speak forth very freely and that our message may also gain entrance into the hearts of those who hear ? Besides, testifying openly and clearly before every type of audience and under all circumstances is not easy.

Hence, this man of God who in a sense already had an open door is not at all inconsistent when he now asks that prayer may be offered so that he may (at all times and under all circumstances) have an open door. This explanation is also in line with the parallel passage, ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:19) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , and with what follows immediately here in Colossians, namely, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 to speak forth the mystery concerning Christ,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref3 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn3” 161) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� its content being Christ himself as the source of salvation, full and free, for both Gentile and Jew, a secret no longer ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 concealed) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 but now, O glorious paradox!, a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 secret) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 fully ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 revealed,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and not revealed only but ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 realized) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 in the hearts and lives of people of every class, station, and nationality. See further on 1:26, 27 and on 2:2 above. Paul continues, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 on account of which I am in prison,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 hence all the more in need of, and entitled to, being remembered in your prayers (cf. 1:24). That it was indeed as a result of the proclamation of this mystery especially its disclosure ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to the Gentiles!) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 that Paul was fettered and in custody follows from the many references in which it is clearly indicated that the Jews, filled with fury because Paul preached the gospel to Jew ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 and Gentile) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.12|AUTODETECT|” without distinction, had accused him before the civil authorities 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.12|AUTODETECT|” Acts 18:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.28|AUTODETECT|” 21:28) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.21-44.22.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.21-44.22.30|AUTODETECT|” 22:21 30) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.26-44.23.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.26-44.23.30|AUTODETECT|” 23:26 30) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.1-44.24.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.24.1-44.24.9|AUTODETECT|” 24:1 9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.1|AUTODETECT|” 25:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.25.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.19-44.26.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.19-44.26.21|AUTODETECT|” 26:19 21) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Now Paul wishes to be remembered in prayer for two reasons: a. so that he may continue to proclaim the blessed contents of the mystery, as has been indicated, and b. that he may do this in the proper manner. As to b., therefore, he continues: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 (praying) that I may make it clear, (and may speak) as I ought to speak.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 When a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 good) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 message is proclaimed in a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 bad) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 way it can do more harm than good. How often have not those who, though innocent, were imprisoned or otherwise molested, made matters worse both for themselves and for the cause which they were defending, by failing to observe this truth. When the apostle now asks to be remembered in prayer so that he may not fall into this error but may speak ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 as he should,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 he probably had in mind some or all of the following particulars: a. Pray that I may speak ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 clearly) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , b. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 boldly,) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.19|AUTODETECT|” that is, without fear or restraint 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:19) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , � ��������), c. yet also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 graciously) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.16|AUTODETECT|” 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 a), and d. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 wisely,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 so that I may know exactly what approach to use when questioned by groups or individuals of various backgrounds: visitors who come to see me in prison, soldiers who guard me, and the Roman authorities before whom I may be summoned. ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 4:5, 6 ) II. Wise Conduct and Gracious Speech Stressed ) 5 Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. 6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer each individual. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 5.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 In the spirit of the principles to which Paul has bound himself and in connection with which he has just now asked the Colossians to remember him and his companions in prayer (see verses 3 and 4 above) he now urges them to adhere to a similar way of life. Says he, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.12|AUTODETECT|” To the Jew every non-Jew was an outsider. And to the Christian every non-Christian is, in a sense, an outsider. See ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.12|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 5:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.7|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . In the days of the early church believers were often slandered by these outsiders. For example, they were called ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 atheists) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 because they served no visible gods, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 unpatriotic) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 because they did not burn incense before the image of the emperor, and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 immoral) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 because, of necessity, they would often meet behind locked doors. The apostle knew that the best way to defeat this slander was for Christians daily to conduct themselves not only ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 virtuously) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 instead of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 wickedly) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 but also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 wisely) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 instead of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 foolishly) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . See Appendix, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Scripture on Tactfulness) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . It was then as it is now: in the long run the reputation of the gospel depends on the conduct of its devotees. It is as if the apostle were saying, Behave wisely toward outsiders, always bearing in mind that though few men read the sacred scrolls, all men read you. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 But not only does such wise conduct, so that believers use the best means to reach the highest goal, serve as a weapon against vilification and character-assassination, it also has a positive purpose, namely, to win outsiders for Christ. Paul was fully aware of the fact that the most effective way for Christians to spread the gospel so that it would be accepted was to conduct themselves in such a manner that the heathen would say, Behold how they love each other, and, in spite of all we have said about them, even love us and treat us with kindness, returning good for evil. That Paul had this positive purpose in mind is also evident from the fact that he adds: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 making the most of the opportunity.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 If the participle used in the original has fully retained its etymological significance, the apostle literally said, & ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 buying up) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 the opportunity. The sense then would be Do not just sit there and wait for opportunity to fall into your lap, but go after it. Yes, buy it. Buy up the entire stock of opportunity 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.11.30|AUTODETECT|” p. 134). Count not the cost. Winning even one soul for Christ is worth it 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.11.30|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 11:30) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.14|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.44|AUTODETECT|” ), and so is salvation itself 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.44|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:44) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.45|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.45|AUTODETECT|” 45) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But in any event the minimal meaning is, Avail yourselves of every opportunity to be a blessing to others. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.11|AUTODETECT|” One thought which, though not here expressed, may very well have been in the background is this: the days are evil and are speeding toward the great consummation of all things. The night is far gone; the day is at hand. Therefore, make the most of the opportunity while you have it. Cf. ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.29|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 7:29) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.16|AUTODETECT|” ; and especially ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.16|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 6.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.8|AUTODETECT|” See also on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Paul has asked the Colossians to pray that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 his) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 manner of speaking might always be the very best (see above, on verse 4). So, having as it were set the example, he now admonishes the addressees to be similarly careful in the use of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 their) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 tongue: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Let your speech always be gracious & ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Note ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 always,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 that is, both in addressing a group or in talking to the neighbor, both when conversing with an equal or when replying to someone in authority, to rich and poor alike, not only in proclaiming the message of salvation but also in discussing the weather. When gracious speech becomes their habit they will not use improper language when suddenly confronted with a difficult situation; for example, when summoned to appear before a worldly judge or when persecuted for the faith. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Just what is gracious speech ? By non-Christians of Paul s day the same expression was used. However, what they meant by it was ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 sparkling conversation,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 speech dotted with witty or clever remarks. When Paul uses the term he has reference to the type of language that results from the operation of God s grace in the heart. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Negatively,) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.29-45.1.32|AUTODETECT|” such speech will not be abusive 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.29-45.1.32|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:29 32) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.20|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 12:20) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.19-48.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.19-48.5.21|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:19 21) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.31|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:31) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Titus 3:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ). Neither will it be vindictive. It will be patterned after the example of Christ who when he was reviled did not revile in return 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.23|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:23) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Positively, it will be truthful and loving. Perhaps the best ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 description of) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.15|AUTODETECT|” gracious speech is found in the words of Paul himself: speaking truth in love 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and the best ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 example) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” in the words of Jesus, Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:34) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 A further description of this kind of gracious speech is: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 seasoned with salt.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.13|AUTODETECT|” Those whom the Lord calls the salt of the earth 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.49|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.49|AUTODETECT|” Mark 9:49) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.50|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.50|AUTODETECT|” 50) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 14:34) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.35|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.35|AUTODETECT|” 35) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) must not be insipid in their language. Salt prevents corruption. It is hard to believe that this idea was absent from the mind of Paul, for in the parallel passage he says, Let ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 no corrupt) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.29|AUTODETECT|” speech proceed from your mouth, but only such (speech) as is good for edification, as fits the need, that it may impart grace to those who hear 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.29|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:29) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But not only does salt have preservative power. It also has pungency and flavor. Speech flavored with salt is, accordingly, not empty or insipid, but thought-provoking and worth-while. It is not a waste of time. Also, such speech does not repel. It attracts, has spiritual charm. Accordingly, it is distinctive: a Christian is known by his speech as well as by his conduct. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Now in their conversations believers must be mindful not only of the particular occasion that evokes their remarks but also of the person addressed. Hence, the apostle continues: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 so that you may know how to answer each individual.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.15|AUTODETECT|” In other words, they should speak the right word at the right time to the right person. This reminds us of ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.15|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 3:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.19|AUTODETECT|” , But in your hearts reverence Christ as Lord, always being ready to make a defense to anyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence. The Holy Spirit himself will help them to do this. Hence, they need not be frightened 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 10:19) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.10.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.11|AUTODETECT|” Mark 13:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.14|AUTODETECT|” ). Christ will give them a mouth and wisdom 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.14|AUTODETECT|” Luke 21:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.21.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 4:7 9 ) III. A Good Word for Tychicus and for Onesimus, Who Have Been Sent with Tidings from Rome and with Encouragement ) 7 All my affairs will Tychicus make known to you, the beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow-servant in the Lord, 8 whom I am sending to you for this very purpose, that you may know our circumstances and that he may strengthen your hearts. 9 (He is) accompanied by Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will acquaint you with everything (that has taken place) here. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 7, 8. All my affairs will Tychicus make known to you.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Tychicus��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref4 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn4” 162) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.4|AUTODETECT|” �� was one of Paul s intimate friends and highly valued envoys. He hailed from the province of Asia, and had accompanied the apostle when at the close of the third missionary journey the latter was returning from Greece through Macedonia and then across into Asia Minor and so to Jerusalem on a charitable mission 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.4|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ); that is, on that trip Tychicus had traveled in advance of Paul from Macedonia to Troas, and had been waiting for the apostle in that city. And now, some four years later, having spent some time with Paul in Rome during the latter s first Roman imprisonment, Tychicus had been commissioned by the apostle to carry to their destination not only the epistle to the Colossians, as implied here in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.7|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.8-57.1.22|AUTODETECT|” , and the one to Philemon, as a comparison of 4:9 and ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.8-57.1.22|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 1, 8 22) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.21|AUTODETECT|” , would appear to indicate, but also the letter that has been transmitted to us as the Epistle to the Ephesians 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.21|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:21) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.7|AUTODETECT|” , which is almost identical with ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.7|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The description of Tychicus as ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 the beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow-servant in the Lord) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 is nearly like that of Epaphras (though not in word-order). There is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 essential) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.7|AUTODETECT|” identity. Hence, see on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.9|AUTODETECT|” . And the reasons for recommending Tychicus so highly are also similar to those given in the case of Epaphras. It stands to reason that Tychicus, having just now spent some time with Paul and being a man of sound judgment, would be the right person to supply all the necessary information about Paul and his companions and fellow-Christians in Rome. Besides, paper was not as plentiful and cheap as it is today, the circumstances under which Paul, the aged prisoner 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.9|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 9) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) had to dictate his letters were not altogether favorable, certain things are better ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 said) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 than ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 written;) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 hence, for such and similar reasons Paul continues: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 who I am sending��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref5 10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn5” 163) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 �� to you for this very purpose, that you may know our circumstance.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref6 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn6” 164) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� Not only this, however, but also, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 and that he may strengthen your hearts,) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.12-50.1.14|AUTODETECT|” probably by stilling your fears 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.1.12-50.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:12 14) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), by delivering to you this very letter, and in general by orally supplying the atmosphere of consolation and spiritual strengthening based upon the promises of God. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 9.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The apostle continues: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 (He is) accompanied by Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will aquaint you with everything (that has taken place) here.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 It is not necessary to repeat what is said about Onesimus in Introduction IV B and in ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref7 11 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn7” N.T.C.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 on Philemon (see especially on verses 8 22) in this volume. The emphatic recommendation of Onesimus to the entire church of Colosse was, and no doubt was meant to be, a powerful support for the plea in behalf of him which Paul addressed to Philemon, the slave s master, one of the members of that church. What has been affirmed by many a commentator, namely, that the very preservation of the Epistle to Philemon proves that this plea was successful is probably correct. By calling Onesimus the faithful and beloved brother the apostle underscores before the entire church verse 16 of his personal letter to Philemon. By permitting Onesimus to stand at the side of Tychicus as an informant regarding everything pertaining to Paul and the church in Rome the apostle is telling the Colossians, including Philemon, that he regards the man who by God s transforming grace is now living up the meaning of his name Onesimus: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 profitable, helpful) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 to be also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 wholly reliable) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 IV. Greetings ) -60 3 2 0 2 0

1 �TPF0 TRVTableSWT.ColorclNoneT.BorderLightColorclWindowTextT.CellBorderLightColorclWindowText T.OptionsrvtoEditing rvtoRowSizing rvtoColSizing rvtoRowSelect rvtoColSelectrvtoHideGridLinesT.TextRowSeparator T.TextColSeparator

T.BorderStyle rvtbColorT.BorderVSpacingT.BorderHSpacingT.VisibleBorders.Bottom T.CellPaddingT.CellBorderStyle rvtbColorT.CellVSpacing�T.CellHSpacing�CTDc.BestWidth]c.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data QM-8 1 3 2 6 1 3 8 0 0 10 Aristarchus, my fellow-prisoner, greets you; so does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas concerning whom you received instructions; if he comes to you receive him ; 11 and Jesus who is called Justus. Of those who are of the circumcision these are the only co-workers for the kingdom of God who have been a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always wrestling for you in his prayers that you may stand firm, mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 13 For I can testify concerning him that he has put himself to much trouble for you and for those in Laodicea and those in Hierapolis. 14 Luke, the beloved physician, greets you; and so does Demas. 15 Extend greetings to the brothers in Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house.) TDc.BestWidthc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data !-8 1 3 2 6 1 3 8 0 0 23 Epaphras, my fellow-prisoner in Christ Jesus, greets you, 24 (and so do) Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow-workers.) TDc.BestWidth]c.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data d`-8 1 3 2 14 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.10-51.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:10 15) TDc.BestWidthc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data ��-8 1 3 2 14 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 23) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 6 5 3 8 0 0 This section in Colossians may be divided into two parts: a. vss. 10 14, in which three of Paul s companions of Jewish birth Aristarchus, Mark, and Jesus Justus , and also three of Gentile birth Epaphras, Luke, and Demas send greetings to the Colossians; and b. verse 15, in which the apostle requests the Colossians to forward his greetings to the brothers in Laodicea and to Nympha and the church in her house. ) A look at the parallel columns reveals the following: ) (1) Due largely to the fact that in the Colossian passage Paul enlarges on Mark, on those of the circumcision, and on Epaphras, this passage is lengthier by far than the corresponding list of greetings in Philemon. ) (2) In Colossians six men send greetings, in Philemon only five. Jesus Justus is not mentioned in the smaller letter. We do not know for what reason his name is omitted. The order of the names also is different. The Colossian list mentions Aristarchus, Mark, Jesus Justus, Epaphras, Luke, and Demas in that sequence. In Philemon the order is: Epaphras, Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke. ) Taking the names one by one, in the order in which they are mentioned in Colossians, we begin with ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Aristarchus) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 10a. Aristarchus, my fellow-prisoner, greets you.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.29|AUTODETECT|” The native town of this man, or at least the place with which he was mainly associated, was Thessalonica. At Ephesus, during Paul s lengthy ministry there (third missionary journey, outward bound) he was with the apostle, and, recognized by the Ephesian rioters as one of Paul s traveling companions, he, along with another man from Macedonia, Gaius, was on the spur of the moment seized by the mob 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.19.29|AUTODETECT|” Acts 19:29) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.4|AUTODETECT|” ). Later we again find him in Paul s company on the return from this same journey. In fact, Tychicus, from Asia, (see above, on verse 7) and Aristarchus and Secundus from Thessalonica, are mentioned as Paul s travel-companions in the same verse 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.4|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.2|AUTODETECT|” ). This was the trip on which delegates from various churches of predominantly Gentile origin were carrying aid to the needy in Jerusalem. We meet Aristarchus once more in the very beginning of the account of Paul s Voyage Dangerous 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.2|AUTODETECT|” Acts 27:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He started out with Paul and probably accompanied the apostle all the way to Rome. (For the idea of Lightfoot, that Aristarchus disembarked at Myra, there is no evidence whatever.) From Rome he is now sending greetings both to the Colossians and to Philemon. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.0|AUTODETECT|” Now a glance at the parallel columns above indicates a rather striking peculiarity that requires some attention. In Colossians Aristarchus is called my fellow-prisoner, but in Philemon no such qualifying designation is added. Along with others he is designated my fellow-worker 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.0|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Conversely, in Philemon it is Epaphras who is described as my fellow-prisoner in Christ Jesus, but in Colossians, though much is said about Epaphras, that specific designation is not used with respect to him. From this circumstance and from the fact that Aristarchus was not under arrest when Paul as a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 prisoner) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 among other ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 prisoners) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 started on his journey to Rome, and that Epaphras, too, somewhat later, was delegated to Rome ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 as a free man,) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.10|AUTODETECT|” the probably warranted inference has been drawn that when Aristarchus, here in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.10|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.23|AUTODETECT|” , and Epaphras, in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 23) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , are called ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 fellow-prisoner,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 this must not be taken in a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 strictly) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.14|AUTODETECT|” literal sense. These men may well have volunteered to share Paul s imprisonment, assisting him in every possible way. They must have been glad to do this since they, as well as Paul, were captives in Christ s train 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.14|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 2:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.10.5|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.10.5|AUTODETECT|” 10:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ).��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref8 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn8” 165) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Mark) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 10b. So does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.36-44.15.41|AUTODETECT|” Mark, the one whom we recognize as the writer of the second Gospel, was also associated with Paul in Rome at this time, and as such is sending greetings both to the Colossians and to Philemon. We now learn that he was a cousin of Barnabas. This could be the reason why, some twelve years earlier, the latter had treated him with such extraordinary kindness. This happened just after Mark, on Paul s first missionary journey, had deserted his senior partners and had gone home. Because of this act of disloyalty and cowardice Paul had refused to accept the suggestion of Barnabas that Mark be given another chance and be taken along on the second missionary journey 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.36-44.15.41|AUTODETECT|” Acts 15:36 41) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.11|AUTODETECT|” ). There had been a sharp contention about this matter between Paul and Barnabas. But by now, Mark seems to have redeemed himself. The apostle no longer regards him as a liability, but recommends him warmly, and even includes him among those who have been a comfort to him (see on verse 11). Moreover, this favorable attitude continued, for even in his very last letter that has come down to us Paul says, Mark & is very useful to me for (the) ministry 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.11|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 What factors or agencies did the Holy Spirit use in bringing about this favorable change in the life of John Mark? In all probability one or more of the following: ) a. The kindly tutelage of Barnabas, that true son of encouragement. Not ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 entirely) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 was it due to this but no doubt in great measure 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 p. 305). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 b. The stern discipline of Paul, shown in refusing to take Mark with him on the second journey. Perhaps Mark needed exactly that seeming harshness. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.5.13|AUTODETECT|” c. The influence of Peter who calls Mark my son 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.5.13|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 5:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). A consistent early tradition links these two men. Peter knew ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 by experience) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 that there was hope for those who had fallen into the sins of disloyalty and cowardice. ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 The Holy Spirit may well have used all three factors and others also to perform his marvelous work in the mind and conscience of the man who came back. ) Paul continues, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 concerning whom you received instruction; if he comes to you receive him.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 What these instructions were and who had issued them we do not know. Either it was Paul himself, in which case he here underscores what he had previously ordered regarding Mark; or else it was Barnabas, Peter, or some other person deemed to be invested with a degree of authority, in which case the apostle here endorses these earlier directives. The first alternative would seem the more probable. In any event it is clear that Mark, being now somewhere in Paul s vicinity, was about to make a trip to Asia Minor, and that his itinerary would include Colosse. The apostle bespeaks a wholehearted acceptance for him. ) There is no reason to doubt that Mark made this tour, even though there is no further specific record of it. There are, however, two lines of evidence which link Mark with the churches of the general region of Asia Minor during apostolic times: ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.1|AUTODETECT|” a. We know that Peter was closely associated with the churches of this region, for he addressed his first epistle to them 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.1|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ). Also his second? Cf. ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.3.1|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 3:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . And in Peter s letter ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Mark s) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.5.13|AUTODETECT|” greetings are conveyed to these churches 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.5.13|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 5:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 b. We also know that during Paul s second Roman imprisonment Mark was at a place where he could easily be picked up by Timothy, who at that time was in all probability continuing his work in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Ephesus,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 province of Asia. See N.T.C., on I and II Timothy and Titus, p. 43, 321. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Jesus Justus) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 11.& and Jesus who is called Justus. Of those who are of the circumcision these are the only fellow-workers for the kingdom of God who have been a comfort to me.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref9 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn9” 166) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The name of this Jew who had become a Christian is a combination of the Greek equivalent (Jesus) of Joshua or Jeshua, and a Latin surname (Justus), which, meaning the just or the righteous, may well have been regarded by those of Jewish origin as representing the Hebrew ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Zadok) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.1.32|AUTODETECT|” 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.1.32|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 1:32) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ); cf. also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Zedekiah) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.1.3|AUTODETECT|” 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 1:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.23|AUTODETECT|” , Jehovah is righteousness or righteousness is of Jehovah ). The same cognomen is found also in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:23) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.7|AUTODETECT|” , Joseph called Barsabbas, who was surnamed Justus, a Jewish Christian, and in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.7|AUTODETECT|” Acts 18:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , Titus Justus, a Roman or Latin who had been attracted to the synagogue. The name Justus was rather common among both Jews and non-Jews, and could be used both by itself or as a surname. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.11|AUTODETECT|” About this man (not mentioned in Philemon) we have no other authentic item of information than that which is given here in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.11|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . However, the little that is said about him, as he joins others in sending greetings to the believers in the church of Colosse, is very favorable. We are told that of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Jewish) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Christians the three persons just mentioned namely, Aristarchus, Mark, and Jesus Justus ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref10 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn10” 167) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� were the only fellow-workers who had been of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 comfort) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.0|AUTODETECT|” that shade of meaning of the word ��������� predominates here to Paul. For the term fellow-workers see on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.0|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Note the striking modifier after the word ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 fellow-workers:) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 fellow-workers ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 for the kingdom of God. ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Did the apostle thus qualify the term in order to convey the idea, Especially among the Jews with their great emphasis upon ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the kingdom) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.31|AUTODETECT|” I should have received more co-operation ? Besides, had he not preached the kingdom of God among these very people almost from the moment of his arrival in Rome? See ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.31|AUTODETECT|” Acts 28:31) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.11|AUTODETECT|” . In that passage and also here in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.11|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 the term kingdom of God obviously has reference to the divine realm as a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 present) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.13|AUTODETECT|” reality. It indicates the dispensation of salvation which in its present phase began with the coming of Christ. God is using Paul and others as his agents in the establishment of this reign of God in the hearts of men. See also on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.13|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 It must not escape our attention that the apostle s statement with reference to these three men as the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 only) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.1-45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” Jewish-Christian fellow-workers who had been a comfort to him implies deep disappointment with other people of his own race. Paul was painfully aware of his estrangement from his own people 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.1-45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 9:1 5) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.1|AUTODETECT|” ). And he was not insensitive to the fact that the Judaists (Jews who confessed Jesus but over-emphasized the law) regarded him with suspicion 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 15:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.20|AUTODETECT|” 21:20) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 2:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.14-50.1.17|AUTODETECT|” ; Phil. 3:23). It cannot be wrong to regard ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.14-50.1.17|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:14 17) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.20|AUTODETECT|” 2:20) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.16|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 as shedding further light on the apostle s feelings anent this matter. All the more, therefore, does he appreciate the co-operation he is receiving from Aristarchus, Mark, and Jesus Justus! ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Epaphras) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 12 13.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.7|AUTODETECT|” To the greetings from three Jewish Christians Paul now adds those from three of Gentile origin, namely, Epaphras, Luke, and Demas. Verses 12 and 13 concern Epaphras, the evangelist of Colosse, Laodicea, and Hierapolis. To some extent the interpretation of these verses has already been given. With respect to this brother and the apostle s high regard for him see Introduction III A 1; see also on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.23|AUTODETECT|” . In his quality as fellow-prisoner 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 23) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) Epaphras has been discussed in connection with Aristarchus (see above on verse 10a). On the three cities to which reference is made in verse 13 see Introduction II and III. Paul writes: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 In the spiritual sense Paul uses the word ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 doulos) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.1|AUTODETECT|” (servant) specifically only with respect to himself 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.10|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 1:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Titus 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ), Timothy 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.12|AUTODETECT|” ) and Epaphras 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.18|AUTODETECT|” ). A servant of Christ Jesus is one who has been bought with a price and is therefore owned by his Master, on whom he is completely dependent, to whom he owes undivided allegiance and to whom he ministers with gladness of heart, in newness of spirit, and in the enjoyment of perfect freedom 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.6|AUTODETECT|” 7:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.24|AUTODETECT|” ), receiving from him a glorious reward 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.24|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:24) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ). Every true Christian is in a sense such a servant. See N.T.C. on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 for more on this concept. It is to the church in Colosse and to Philemon that Epaphras is sending his best regards. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Paul continues: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 always wrestling for you in his prayers.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.30|AUTODETECT|” For wrestling or striving in prayer see also ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.30|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:30) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.1|AUTODETECT|” , and cf. what the apostle says about himself in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.1|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Epaphras was deeply in earnest as he again and again invoked God s favor upon the Colossians and besought the Lord to help them so that they might not be led astray but might stand firm in the true faith. Further, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 that you may stand firm, mature.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.15|AUTODETECT|” For the meaning of the word mature see above on 1:28; also N.T.C. on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (especially p. 176, footnote 156 there). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 When Paul further defines the object or contemplated result of Epaphras prayer by adding, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 fully assured in all the will of God,) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.2|AUTODETECT|” he must be using the perfect participle fully assured in the sense of the cognate noun in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.2|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (see on that passage). Thorough, rich, gratifying insight into all spiritual matters is meant; understanding which not only penetrates the mind but also fills the heart with satisfying conviction. Epaphras does not want these churches that are dear to his heart to be deluded by error. They must remain true to their confession of faith in the all-sufficient Savior Jesus Christ. It is for that reason that he wrestles for them in prayer. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 And it is exactly that wrestling in prayer which is probably the best explanation of the words, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 For I can testify concerning him that he has put himself to much trouble for you and for those in Laodicea and those in Hierapolis.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The Colossian Heresy had undoubtedly affected all three churches founded by Epaphras. Hence, it is in connection with the danger that threatened them all that he betakes himself to the throne of grace in earnest and repeated intercession.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref11 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn11” 168) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Luke) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 14a. Luke, the beloved physician, greets you.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 From a comparison with verse 11 we learn that Luke was a Christian from the Gentiles. The present passage shows that he was at Rome just now and was a doctor and a person of amiable personality, beloved by his Lord, by believers generally, and by Paul specifically. He was to become the author of the third Gospel. Note that he and Mark, who wrote the second Gospel, were together in Rome. It is not at all surprising but gratifying that in spite of lengthy arguments to the contrary, thoroughly conservative scholarship is more and more arriving at the conclusion that in composing his own Gospel Luke made use of Mark s as one of his sources.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref12 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn12” 169) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.17-44.16.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke was a remarkable person, always loyal to Paul, to the gospel, and to his Lord. Frequently he had been Paul s companion in travel, as is indicated by the we sections in Acts (16:10 17; 20:6 16; 21; 27; 28). He had been with Paul on the second missionary journey, namely, at Troas and at Philippi. He had evidently been left behind at the latter place 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.17-44.16.19|AUTODETECT|” Acts 16:17 19) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.6|AUTODETECT|” ). Toward the close of the third tour he seems again to have joined Paul at Philippi 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.6|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.0|AUTODETECT|” ), and he accompanied him to Jerusalem. For a while we do not see him. But suddenly he re-appears, for he is in Paul s company on the long and dangerous sea-journey to Rome 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.0|AUTODETECT|” Acts 27) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.11|AUTODETECT|” ). And it is from Rome during this, Paul s first, Roman imprisonment, that he is sending his greetings to the Colossians and also to Philemon. Later, the apostle, experiencing his second and final Roman imprisonment, would write these touching words, Luke is the only one with me 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.11|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 a). This would be followed by, Pick up Mark and bring him with you.& ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Luke and Paul had much in common. Both were educated men, men of culture. Both were big-hearted, broad-minded, sympathetic. Both were believers and missionaries. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Demas) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 14b.& and so does Demas.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.24|AUTODETECT|” Yes, Demas, too, is a fellow-worker 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.24|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 24) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ), one of Paul s assistants in the ministry who wishes to be remembered to the church in Colosse and to Philemon. Paul does not yet know that one day this man will be a deep disappointment to him, and that with reference to this assistant in the gospel-ministry he will, during his second Roman imprisonment, write these plaintive words, Demas has deserted me, because he fell in love with the present world, and has gone to Thessalonica 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.10|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). And with that tragic statement Demas will disappear from sacred history. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 15.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Having finished the section in which six men three of Jewish and three of Gentile birth send their greetings to the Colossians, the apostle now asks that certain greetings be forwarded to believing neighbors. His request is: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Extend greetings to the brothers in Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref13 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn13” 170) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Note that Hierapolis (see on verse 13 above) is no longer mentioned. We simply do not know what may have been the reason for this. The apostle wants the addressees to convey his greetings to the brothers in nearby Laodicea. On the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 geography) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 of the three cities Colosse, Laodicea, Hierapolis in their relation to each other and to Ephesus, and on their ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 history,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 see Introduction II A (including maps 1, 2, 3), and II B. In Laodicea Paul singles out for separate greetings Nympha and the church in her house.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref14 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn14” 171) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.2|AUTODETECT|” �� Did he know Nympha personally? Perhaps a group of Laodiceans living close together, but separated at some inconvenient distance from the others, met at her house for worship. So special greetings are extended to them and their hostess. For the house-church idea see ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 4:16 ) V. Exchange of Letters Requested ) 16 And when this letter has been read among you, see to it that it is read also in the church of the Laodiceans, and that you also read the one from Laodicea. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 16. And when this letter has been read among you.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The letter, after it has been delivered to the proper ecclesiastical authorities at Colosse by Tychicus, will be read by the lector to the congregation assembled for worship. Now when this has taken place, says Paul, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 see to it that it is read also in the church of the Laodiceans.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The believers of nearby Laodicea will not only be ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 interested) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 in this letter coming from the beloved apostle Paul, they will also be spiritually ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 benefited) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 by it. So it must also be read in their midst. So far there are no difficulties. But now Paul continues: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 and that you also read the one from Laodicea.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Altogether too large a literature has been built up around these few words. Countless conjectures have been made regarding this letter from Laodicea. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref15 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn15” 172) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The main ones are as follows. Paul had reference to: ) 7 1 3 8 0 0

1. A letter written by the Laodiceans) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 According to most of the advocates of this view it was addressed to the apostle himself. ) This theory was strongly advocated, among others, by Theodore of Mopsuestia (a.d. 350 428), classical representative of the school of Antioch. John Calvin s defense of this view was no less vigorous. Said he, Afflicted with double mental aberration are those who think that it was written by Paul to the Laodiceans. I have no doubt that it was an epistle sent to Paul, the perusal of which might be profitable to the Colossians, as neighboring towns usually have many things in common. However, & some worthless person, I know not who, had the audacity to forge an epistle that is so insipid that it is impossible to conceive of anything more foreign to the spirit of Paul. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref16 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn16”

173. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 No doubt Calvin was influenced by eagerness to reject the spurious ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Epistle to the Laodiceans;) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 perhaps also by hesitancy to accept a lost Pauline epistle. ) 6 4 3 8 0 0 Among the many objections to theory (1) are the following: ) a. If Paul had this letter in his possession, why should he ask the Colossians to get it from the Laodiceans? ) b. How did he know that the Laodiceans had made a copy of their letter, before sending it to Paul? But if they had made such a copy, how did the apostle know that they would be willing to give it to the Colossians and to let them read it to the church assembled for worship? ) c. Why should he place these two on a par: a letter written by himself to the Colossians, under inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and an uninspired communication supposedly sent to him by the Laodiceans? ) 7 1 3 8 0 0

2. A letter written by Paul from Laodicea; perhaps Galatians or I Timothy or I Thessalonians or II Thessalonians) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 Objections: ) a. Although Paul may very well have passed through Laodicea (see Introduction III A), namely, on his way to Ephesus (third missionary journey), the design of that trip was to confirm already established churches along the route of travel, and to reach Ephesus in order to spend some time there, as he had promised. On the trip there must have been little or no time for letter writing. ) b. In all probability none of the letters to which reference was made was written from Laodicea. Galatians and I and II Thessalonians seem to have been written from Corinth (N.T.C. on I and II Thessalonians, pp. 15, 16). I Timothy probably originated in Macedonia (Philippi? see N.T.C. on I and II Timothy and Titus, pp. 39 41). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0
3. A letter written by Paul to Philemon) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 Since, according to this theory Philemon lived in Laodicea, this letter when it reached Colosse via Laodicea could be called the letter from Laodicea. ) Objection: ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.2|AUTODETECT|” This theory has been discussed in some detail. See Introduction IV B; and see on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 1, 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Philemon, in all probability, did not live in Laodicea but in Colosse. Accordingly, there is no solid support for this view. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0
4. The letter to the Laodiceans which today is known as the Apocryphal Epistle to the Laodiceans ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref17 12 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn17”

174. 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ��) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 Objections: ) a. This letter is nothing but a cento of Pauline phrases strung together without any definite connection or any clear object (Lightfoot). ) b. Jerome already stated that it is rejected by all. The Council of Nicea (a.d. 787) warned against it. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.16|AUTODETECT|” c. It was obviously fabricated to satisfy curiosity with respect to ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 b. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 d. Since such a disproportionately large part of this small letter was lifted from Paul s Epistle to the Philppians, it is evident that it does not even fit the Lycus Valley situation. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0

5. The canonical Epistle of Paul to the Ephesians) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.16|AUTODETECT|” This theory has gained many adherents. It is generally linked with the circular letter view of Ephesians, though the latter theory is not really dependent upon it. According to this interpretation of ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 b, as soon as Ephesians in its circuit of the churches has been read to the church of Laodicea it must, in accordance with Paul s wishes, be sent on to Colosse in exchange for Colossians. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Evaluation: ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Conclusive) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.1|AUTODETECT|” proof for the correctness of this theory is lacking. It is supplied neither here in Colossians nor in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.16|AUTODETECT|” . (The discussion of the latter passage would he appropriate in a Commentary on Ephesians.) On the other hand, though it is merely a theory, it is not exposed to the objections that count against the preceding four. It proceeds on the valid assumptions that both letters to which reference is made in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 were written ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 by the apostle Paul) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to churches) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . According to this theory, then, Ephesians, reaching the Colossians from Laodicea, will thus truthfully become the letter from the Laodiceans. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0
6. A genuine letter of Paul addressed to the Laodiceans, but now lost) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 As before (see above, under (5)), when this letter reaches the Colossians it will be the letter from the Laodiceans. ) Evaluation: ) Here, too, proof is lacking, and here, too, the theory is free from the objections mentioned as valid against the first four. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.9|AUTODETECT|” The fact that this theory proceeds from the assumption that a letter written by Paul can have been lost, in the sense that it was not handed down to posterity, should not count as a valid objection. Not all of Paul s letters have been preserved 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.9|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 5:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Those favoring this theory are of the opinion that the reason why, in God s providence, Paul s letter to the Laodiceans was not preserved may well have been that the distinctive portion of the epistle that wherein it differed from Colossians , though certainly of real value for the membership in the Lycus Valley (at least for that of Laodicea and Colosse), was lacking in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 abiding) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 universal) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 significance. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 It must be borne in mind that Tychicus had to pass through Laodicea in order to reach Colosse. In all probability he traveled the road which Paul himself had used, but now Tychicus traveled it in reverse (from W. to E.) See Introduction II A, map 4. Would it not have been strange if, having delivered Ephesians to the elders at Ephesus, and being on his way to deliver Colossians to the authorities at Colosse, he would have had no missive from Paul to the church of Laodicea through which town he was passing? Both theories supply this need. According to (5) Tychicus could have told the Laodiceans, Paul s letter which I left at Ephesus will be sent to you presently. Having read it, send it on to the Colossians, who will send you, in exchange, the letter which we are going to deliver to them.

According to (6) Tychicus, welcomed by the Laodiceans, would deliver to them Paul s letter addressed specifically to them. That letter itself probably contained a request that it (or a copy of it) be sent to the Colossians in exchange for the one addressed to them. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Against (6) it is sometimes urged that Paul would hardly have asked the Colossians to convey his greetings to the brothers in Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), if at the same time he had been writing a letter addressed specifically to the Laodiceans. Others, however, answer that for a heart so filled with love and friendliness such a thing can be considered neither impossible nor unnatural. Besides, objections have also been advanced against (5), particularly against the circular letter theory. ) 6 4 3 8 0 0 There are times, in the course of exegesis, when a precise answer is impossible, and the choice must be left between two alternatives, in this case theory (5) and theory (6). ) 4:17 ) VI. Crisp Directive for Archippus ) 17 And say to Archippus, Attend to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you fulfil it. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 17. And say to Archippus.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Archippus was a member of the family of Philemon who lived in Colosse, and at whose home the church was accustomed to gather for worship. In ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.2|AUTODETECT|” the apostle bestows on him the signal honor of calling him our fellow-soldier. See in this volume, on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 1, 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . As he was probably ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the son) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.12|AUTODETECT|” of Philemon and Apphia he cannot have been very old. We may, perhaps, compare him to Timothy to whom Paul, after his release from the present Roman imprisonment, was going to write, Let no one despise your youth 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.12|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 4:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Those words were addressed to Timothy when he was perhaps somewhere between 34 and 39 years of age. See N.T.C. on I and II Timothy and Titus, p. 157. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Now for this companion-in-arms, Archippus, the apostle has a special message. He expresses it in language which, because of its terse, commanding character, must have sounded all the more direct and unequivocal. Paul tells the church of Colosse to say to Archippus, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Attend to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you fulfil it.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Nothing further is said about the nature of this ministry. Nor are we told why Archippus had to be thus admonished. Some have thought that the reason was that he lacked diligence or energy, that he was somewhat on the lazy side, always postponing to the indefinite future the tasks that needed immediate attention. The objection to this theory is that in that case Paul would hardly have called him our fellow-) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 soldier) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Perhaps a safer method of reaching a probable answer to the double question: a. What was this ministry? and b. Why did Paul choose this method of reminding Archippus of his responsibility? is to study the exact meaning of the expression used. Archippus must attend to the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ministry) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . The word in italics is the equivalent of the Greek ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 diakonia) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . In Paul s writings it has several meanings.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref18 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn18” 175) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� Prominent among these meanings is, however, the spiritual one, according to which the word has reference to the office of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the ministry,) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.17|AUTODETECT|” and the service implied in that office. In the present instance we can, perhaps, proceed even farther in arriving at a reasonable conclusion with respect to the sense of the term in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.17|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.5|AUTODETECT|” . The latter passage has a very close parallel in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.5|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , as follows: ) -60 3 2 0 2 0

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T.BorderStyle rvtbColorT.BorderVSpacingT.BorderHSpacingT.VisibleBorders.Bottom T.CellPaddingT.CellBorderStyle rvtbColorT.CellVSpacing�T.CellHSpacing�CTDc.BestWidthSc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data hd-8 1 3 2 17 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.17|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:17) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 b) TDc.BestWidthc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data kg-8 1 3 2 17 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.5|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:5) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 b) TDc.BestWidthSc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data ��-8 1 3 2 6 1 3 8 0 0 Attend to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you fulfil it. ) TDc.BestWidthc.VisibleBorders.Leftc.VisibleBorders.Rightc.VisibleBorders.Topc.VisibleBorders.Bottomc.VAlign rvcMiddlec.Data ��-8 1 3 2 6 1 3 8 0 0 Do the work of an evangelist, your ministry discharge to the full. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.8|AUTODETECT|” Now in Timothy s case that ministry was the work of an evangelist or gospel-preacher 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.8|AUTODETECT|” Acts 21:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.11|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.2|AUTODETECT|” ). Timothy, who, when Paul will be writing these words, will be in Ephesus as Paul s envoy, must herald the word, being on hand in season, out of season, He must reprove, rebuke, admonish, with all longsuffering and teaching 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.2|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.17|AUTODETECT|” In Colosse, too, someone must have been in charge of the flock. When Colossians was being written and brought to its destination it could not have been Epaphras, the minister of the churches in the Lycus Valley, for just now he was with Paul in Rome, from which he is sending greetings (4:12). Who was it? In view of the striking similarity between ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.17|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4.17) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.5|AUTODETECT|” and ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.5|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 b, the conclusion does not seem unreasonable that this interim-shepherd was none other than Archippus. Further, since he, too, just like Timothy, was probably rather young and somewhat diffident, wondering perhaps whether the church would give him a man so inexperienced its full co-operation in this important work, the apostle, very tactfully, orders ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the congregation) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 itself to encourage him by saying to him, as it were, Go right ahead, we are with you and we promise to help you in every way. The task you are trying to perform was given to you by the Lord, and you are discharging it with strength imparted by him. Hence, Attend to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you fulfil it. All this is, of course, no more than a reasonable conjecture. ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 4:18 ) VII. Personal Greeting, Reminder, Benediction ) 18 The greetings by my own, Paul s, hand. Remember my bonds. Grace (be) with you. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 18a. The greeting by my own, Paul s, hand.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.17|AUTODETECT|” It was customary for Paul to write a few words of greetings with his own hand 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.17|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.21|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.21|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:21) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He had a twofold purpose in doing this: ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.17|AUTODETECT|” a. to mark the autographed letter as a genuine one, an authentic product of the mind and heart of Paul 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.17|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ); and ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.1|AUTODETECT|” b. to discourage the spread of spurious letters 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.1|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.22|AUTODETECT|” It is also clear from this that Paul was in the habit of dictating his letters 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.22|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:22) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.11|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.19|AUTODETECT|” ; and see on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.19|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 19) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 18b. Remember my bonds.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 It is a sign of Paul s true greatness that he did not deem himself to be too exalted to solicit continued sympathy and intercession in behalf of himself, a prisoner! See on 1:9; cf. 4:3. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 18c. Grace (be) with you.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.21|AUTODETECT|” In this shortest possible form the benediction is also found in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.21|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:21) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.22|AUTODETECT|” 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.22|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:22) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 b). But though brief it is rich in meaning, for grace is the greatest and most basic blessing of all. It is God s favor in Christ to the undeserving, transforming their hearts and lives and leading them on to glory. The apostle, who in his opening salutation had spoken of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 grace) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 peace) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), now closes this letter by again authoritatively pronouncing ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 this) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 grace upon the believers in Colosse.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref19 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn19” 176) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.2-51.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Seed Thoughts of ) 15 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.2-51.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Colossians 4:2 18) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 (1) Persevere in prayer. Sometimes the answer does not come at once because we are not as yet ready to receive the blessing; sometimes, because the blessing is not yet ready for us. Besides, if whenever we prayed God ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 immediately) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 granted the petition, would we appreciate his blessings? (verse 2a). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 (2) & keeping alert in it ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 with thanksgiving. ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Paul was ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 a prisoner) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 when he wrote this. How true are the lines: ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 Stone walls do not a prison make, ) Nor iron bars a cage. (Lovelace) ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.5|AUTODETECT|” From his first Roman imprisonment the apostle wrote four letters that have come down to us: Colossians, Philemon, Ephesians, and Philippians. Colossians overflows with thanksgiving (1:3, 12; 2:7; 3:15, 16, 17; 4:2); Ephesians, with grace (1:2, 6, 7; 2:5, 7, 8; 3:2, 7, 8; 4:7, 29; 6:24) and glory (1:6, 12, 14, 17, 18; 3:13, 16, 21); Philippians, with joy (1:4, 18, 25; 2:2, 17, 18, 28, 29; 3:1; 4:1, 4, 10); and all four with love 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 1, 5) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , and cf. 12), (verse 2b). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 (3) & praying also for us, that God may open to us a door for the message. The prisoner prays not for a door of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 exit) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 from prison, but for a door for the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 entrance) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 of the message (verse 3). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 (4) & (praying) that I may make it clear, (and may speak) as I ought to speak. Not only ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 what) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 we say but also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 how) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.15|AUTODETECT|” we say it is important 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), (verse 4). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 (5) & making the most of the opportunity or & buying up the opportunity. For some Time is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 money) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . For Paul it is opportunity to conduct oneself wisely toward outsiders (verse 5). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 (6) & so that you may know how to answer each individual. Not only ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 what) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 we say and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 how) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 we say it is important (see No. 4 above) but also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to whom) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 we say it (verse 6). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 (7) All my affairs will Tychicus make known to you & Some things are better ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 said) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 than ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 written) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (verses 7 and 8). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 (8) & Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother ; Mark, the cousin of Barnabas & if he comes to you receive him. Brother ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 A) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 is very generous in his willingness to overlook the sin which brother ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 B) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 committed against brother ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 C,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 but not nearly as eager to forgive ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 D) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 s trespass against himself 7 1 -1 9 0 0 A) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.13|AUTODETECT|” ). Paul, however, does both. He forgives Onesimus for having wronged Philemon, but he also forgives Mark for having wronged himself, i.e., Paul 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.13|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.38|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.38|AUTODETECT|” 15:38) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.11|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), (verses 9 and 10). ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 (9) Of those of the circumcision these are the only co-workers for the kingdom of God who have been a comfort to me. The most privileged individuals are not always the most profitable (verse 11). ) (10) Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always wrestling for you in his prayers that you may stand firm, mature and fully assured in all the will of God. The mark of a great leader is that he is eager to speak well of a person and to bolster confidence in him. Paul did this again and again (verses 12 and 13). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.10|AUTODETECT|” (11) Luke, the beloved physician, greets you, and so does Demas. Here these two are mentioned favorably, in one breath. Later the contrast would become apparent, and Paul would write, Demas has deserted me, because he fell in love with the present world & Luke is the only one with me. Two kingdom workers may be working side by side, doing the same kind of work, as far as men can see. God sees the heart 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.10|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 (12) & and the church in her house. In a sense every home should be a house-church (verse 15). ) (13) & see to it that it is read also in the church of the Laodiceans, and that you also read the one from Laodicea. This not only because these two ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 letters) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 were important to the two churches, but also because the two ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 congregations) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 should be important to each other (verse 16). ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 (14) & that you fulfil it. Every God-given task must be fulfilled (verse 17). ) (15) Remember my bonds. A truly great man is not too proud to ask that he be remembered in prayer (verse 18). ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Paul s Epistle to the Colossians) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Chapter 1 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 to the saints and believing brothers in Christ at Colosse; grace to you and peace from God our Father. ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 3 While praying for you we are always thanking God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 4 because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love which you cherish for all the saints, 5 by reason of the hope laid up for you in the heavens, of which you have previously heard in the message of the truth, namely, the gospel, 6 which made its entrance felt among you, as indeed in the entire world it is bearing fruit and growing so also among yourselves from the day you heard and came to acknowledge the grace of God in its genuine character, 7 as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow-servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, 8 and has made known to us your love in the Spirit. ) 9 And for this reason, from the day we heard it we never stopped praying for you, asking that you may be filled with clear knowledge of his will (such clear knowledge consisting) in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 so as to live lives worthy of the Lord, to (his) complete delight, in every good work bearing fruit, and growing in the clear knowledge of God; 11 being invigorated with all vigor, in accordance with his glorious might, so as to exercise every kind of endurance and longsuffering; 12 with joy giving thanks to the Father who qualified you for a share in the inheritance of the saints in the light 13 and who rescued us out of the domain of darkness and transplanted us into the kingdom of the Son of his love, 14 in whom we have our redemption, the forgiveness of our sins. ) 15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature, ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 for in him were created all things in the heavens and on the earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or authorities, all things through him and with a view to him have been created; 17 and he is before all things, and all things hold together in him. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church; who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things he might have the pre-eminence, 19 for in him he [God] was pleased to have all the fulness dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile all things to himself, having made peace through the blood of his cross, through him, whether the things on the earth or the things in the heavens. ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 21 And you, who once were estranged and hostile in disposition, as shown by your wicked works, 22 he in his body of flesh through his death has now reconciled, in order to present you holy, faultless, and blameless before himself; 23 if, indeed, you continue in the faith, founded and firm, and are not moved away from the hope that is derived from the gospel which you have heard, which was preached among every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister. ) 24 I am now rejoicing and my sufferings for you, and what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ I in his stead am supplying in my flesh, for his body, which is the church, 25 of which I became a minister, according to the stewardship of God given to me for your benefit, to give full scope to the word of God, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now made manifest to his saints; 27 to whom God was pleased to make known what (is) the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory; 28 whom we proclaim, admonishing every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, in order that we may present every man perfect in Christ; 29 for which I am laboring, striving by his energy working powerfully within me. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Chapter 2 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 1 For I want you to know how greatly I strive for you, and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not seen my face in the flesh, 2 in order that their hearts may be strengthened, they themselves being welded together in love, and this with a view to all the riches of assured understanding, with a view to the clear knowledge of the mystery of God, namely, Christ; 3 in whom all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden. 4 I say this in order that no one may mislead you by persuasive argument. 5 For, although in the flesh I am absent, yet in the spirit I am with you, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ. ) 6 4 3 8 0 0 6 As therefore you accepted Christ Jesus the Lord, (so) in him continue to live, 7 rooted and being built up in him and being established in the faith, just as you were taught, overflowing with thanksgiving. 8 Be on your guard lest there be any one who carries you off as spoil by means of his philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the rudiments of the world, and not according to Christ: 9 for in him all the fulness of the godhead dwells bodily, 10 and in him you have attained to fulness, namely, in him who is the head of every principality and authority, 11 in whom also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by the putting off of the body of the flesh in the circumcision of Christ, 12 having been buried with him in your baptism in which you were also raised with him through faith in the operative power of God who raised him from the dead. 13 And you, who were dead through your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, you he made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses. 14 having blotted out the hand-written document that was against us, which by means of its requirements testified against us, and he took it out of the way by nailing it to the cross, 15 and having stripped the principalities and the authorities of their power, he publicly exposed them to disgrace by triumphing over them in him. ) 16 Therefore allow no one to pass judgment on you in questions of food or drink or with respect to a festival or a new moon or a sabbath: 17 things that were only a shadow of those that were coming, while the object casting the shadow is to be found with Christ. ) 18 Let no one disqualify you by delighting in humility and the worship of the angels, taking his stand on the things he has seen, without cause puffed up by his fleshly mind, 19 and not keeping firm hold on the Head, from whom the entire body, supported and held together by joints and ligaments, grows with a growth (that is) from God. ) 20 If with Christ you died to the rudiments of the world, why, as though you were (still) living in the world, do you submit to regulations, 21 Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch 22 referring to things that are meant for destruction by their consumption according to the precepts and doctrines of men? 23 Regulations of this kind, though to be sure having a reputation for wisdom because of their self-imposed ritual, humility, and unsparing treatment of the body, are of no value whatever, (serving only) to indulge the flesh. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Chapter 3 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 1 If then you were raised with Christ, seek ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the things that are above,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 On the things that are above set your minds, not on the things that are upon the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ (who is) our life is manifested, then you also will be manifested with him in glory. ) 6 3 3 8 0 0 5 Put to death therefore your members that (are) upon the earth: immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which is idolatry; 6 on account of which things the wrath of God is coming; 7 in which things you also walked at one time, when you were living in them. 8 But now you, too, lay them all aside: wrath, anger, malice, slander, shameful language from your mouth. 9 No longer lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old man with his practices, 10 and have put on the new man, who is being renewed for full knowledge according to the image of him who created him, 11 where there cannot be Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave, freeman, but Christ (is) all and in all. ) 12 Put on, therefore, as God s elect, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, longsuffering, 13 enduring one another, and forgiving each other if anyone have a complaint against anyone. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so do you also. 14 And above all these things (put on) love, which is the bond of perfection. 15 And let the peace of Christ, for which you were called in one body, rule in your hearts, and be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell among you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another, (and) by means of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs singing to God in a thankful spirit, with all your heart. 17 And whatever you do in word or in deed, (do) all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. ) 18 Wives, be submissive to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh toward them. 20 Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing in the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not exasperate your children, in order that they may not lose heart. 22 Slaves, obey in all things those who according to the flesh are your masters, not with eye-service as men-pleasers but with singleness of heart, fearing the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, put your soul into the work, as for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the recompense, namely, the inheritance. (It is) the Lord Christ (whom) you are serving. 25 For, the wrong-doer will receive (the conquences of) what he has wrongly done. And there is no partiality. ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Chapter 4 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 1 Masters, render to your slaves that which is fair and square, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. ) 6 7 3 8 0 0 2 Persevere in prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving; 3 at the same time praying also for us, that God may open to us a door for the message, to speak forth the mystery concerning Christ, on account of which I am in prison, 4 (praying) that I may make it clear, (and may speak) as I ought to speak. ) 5 Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. 6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer each individual. ) 7 All my affairs will Tychicus make known to you, the beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow-servant in the Lord, 8 whom I am sending to you for this very purpose, that you may know our circumstances and that he may strengthen your hearts. 9 (He is) accompanied by Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will acquaint you with everything (that has taken place) here. ) 10 Aristarchus, my fellow-prisoner, greets you; so does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas concerning whom you received instructions; if he comes to you receive him ; 11 and Jesus who is called Justus. Of those who are of the circumcision these are the only co-workers for the kingdom of God who have been a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always wrestling for you in his prayers that you may stand firm, mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 13 For I can testify concerning him that he has put himself to much trouble for you and for those in Laodicea and those in Hierapolis. 14 Luke, the beloved physician greets you, and so does Demas. 15 Extend greetings to the brothers in Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house. ) 16 And when this letter has been read among you, see to it that it is read also in the church of the Laodiceans, and that you also read the one from Laodicea. ) 17 And say to Archippus, Attend to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you fulfil it. ) 18 The greetings by my own, Paul s, hand. Remember my bonds. Grace (be) with you. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn1 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref1” 159 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.18|AUTODETECT|” It is not necessary to assume a literary or epistolary plural here, nor in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.18|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.1|AUTODETECT|” 3:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . See N.T.C. on these passages. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn2 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref2” 160 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 A. Deissmann, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 p. 300, footnote 2. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn3 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref3” 161 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” or simply, the mystery, namely, Christ. See N.T.C. on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Christ is in any event the heart and essence of the mystery. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn4 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref4” 162 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.12|AUTODETECT|” For the meaning of the name see N.T.C. on Philippians, pp. 138, 139, footnote 116, where the explanation of many other personal names is also given. For more on Tychicus, e.g., his relation to Paul after the latter s first Roman imprisonment, see N.T.C. on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.12|AUTODETECT|” Titus 3:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.12|AUTODETECT|” and on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.12|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn5 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref5” 163 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �����, epistolary aorist. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn6 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref6” 164 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Though the reading that he may know your circumstances has the support of p) 13 1 -1 9 0 0 46) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and other manuscripts, it must be considered inferior because of the context (see verse 9b). ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn7 11 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref7” N.T.C. ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 W. Hendriksen, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 New Testament Commentary) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn8 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref8” 165 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The root meaning of �0�������� is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 one caught with the spear;) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 hence, a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 warcaptive,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and so simply ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 a captive) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 prisoner) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.6|AUTODETECT|” . See N.T.C. on ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.6|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . It is not wrong, therefore, to render ������������� ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 fellow-prisoner) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Since the apostle was himself a prisoner in the literal sense of that term it is hard to believe that in speaking of fellow-prisoners he was using this term in an ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 exclusively) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.14|AUTODETECT|” spiritual sense, though it must be admitted that not only in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.14|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 2:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.25|AUTODETECT|” but also elsewhere the apostle uses military terminology with respect to the service rendered to the cause of Christ 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.25|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:25) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.3|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.3|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Paul s use of the word ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 captive) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 prisoner,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 even when used in a literal sense, often has a spiritual overtone. Thus, when he refers to himself as a prisoner, he adds of Christ Jesus. We may well assume, therefore, that here, too, the word fellow-captive or fellow-prisoner has that spiritual overtone. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn9 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref9” 166 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Though not all are in agreement with respect to the proper punctuation and grammatical construction of verse 11b, it is clear that the word ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 circumcision) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 does not end a clause. The sense is not: Aristarchus, Mark, and Jesus Justus, who are of the circumcision; these are the only fellow-workers for the kingdom of God, etc. Paul certainly would not have denied that such men as Epaphras, Luke, and others were also fellow-workers and had also been a source of consolation to him. The idea is that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 from among those of Jewish origin) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 these three men were the only fellow-workers who had been a comfort to him. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn10 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref10” 167 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The combination Aristarchus & and Mark & and Jesus who is called Justus (verses 10, 11) would seem to make it well-nigh certain that all three were ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Jewish) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Christians. Though a few modifiers are added, these three names are, nevertheless, mentioned in one breath, being linked by & and & and & I cannot agree, therefore, with A. S. Peake who, in commenting on this passage in the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Expositior s Greek Testament) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.1-44.17.4|AUTODETECT|” (Vol. III, p. 546), states, Aristarchus is probably not included, for he went as one of the deputation sent by the Gentile Christians with the collection for the church at Jerusalem, nor with Lenski who defends this same idea even more vigorously: He was a Thessalonian, and thus not a Jew. ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.1-44.17.4|AUTODETECT|” Acts 17:1 4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 implies that among the converts at Thessalonica there were also some Jews. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn11 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref11” 168 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 This explanation is in harmony with the context. Another interpretation, the one suggested, for example, by E. F. Scott, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The Epistles of Paul to the Colossians, to Philemon and to the Ephesians) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 90, would connect the trouble, to which Epaphras put himself, with the earthquake which about the year a.d. 60 shook the Lycus Valley. See above, Introduction, II B. Paul, according to this theory, is conveying the idea that Epaphras had been laboring to provide financial help for the stricken inhabitants. However, there is no precise and consistent testimony with reference either to the exact date or extent of this earthquake. Besides, had the apostle meant this, we might have expected a clearer reference to it. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn12 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref12” 169 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Cf. Zahn, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Einleitung) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , II, pp. 404 ff. (Eng. trans., III, pp. 101 ff.); H. J. Cadbury, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The Style and Literary Method of Luke) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , pp. 73 ff.; and N. B. Stonehouse, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Origins of the Synoptic Gospels) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 49. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn13 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref13” 170 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Or, and to Nymphas and the church in his house. Not only do the manuscripts vary between Nympha (feminine) and Nymphas (masculine), but correspondingly also between in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 her) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 house and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 his) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 house. Some even have in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 their) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 house. In the latter case it is probable that a scribe erroneously included a reference to the brothers and so arrived at the phrase in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 their) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 house. As between ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 her) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 his,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 the textual attestation for the former is qualitatively the strongest. Besides, it is not difficult to understand that a scribe, not deeming it proper to speak of the church in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 her) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 house, would change this to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 his) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . All in all, therefore, it would seem that the reading Nympha and the church in her house deserves the preference. For the names Nympha, Nymphas, see N.T.C. on Philippians, p. 139, footnote 116. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn14 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref14” 171 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 F. W. Beare, in his comment on this passage 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The Interpreter s Bible) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.23|AUTODETECT|” , Vol. 11, p. 239) opines that it was the church of Hierapolis which met at the home of Nympha. But, after the analogy of ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.23|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:23) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” , written from Corinth 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.14|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.19|AUTODETECT|” ), and ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.19|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:19) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.8|AUTODETECT|” , written from Ephesus 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.8|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), it would seem more natural that when a house-church and the owner of the house are mentioned in close connection with a city (clearly implied or even mentioned by name), this church belongs to that particular community and not to some other place on the map. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn15 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref15” 172 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 See J. B. Lightfoot s summary of theories, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 p. 274 and his lengthy discussion that follows the summary. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn16 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref16” 173 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The original statement is found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Commentarius In Epistolam Pauli Ad Colossenses) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Corpus Reformatorum) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.16|AUTODETECT|” , vol. LXXX), Brunsvigae, 1895. The marginal explanation of ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 in the Dutch ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Staten Bijbel) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (I own a copy printed in 1643!) defends the same view. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn17 12 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref17” 174 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 It is a short apocryphal writing that occurs in many manuscripts of the Vulgate. It usually follows Colossians. But it antedates the Vulgate and can be found in old-Latin manuscripts before Jerome. And even in the Greek-speaking portion of the church between the fourth and eighth centuries reference is often made to Paul s Epistle to the Laodiceans. The conclusion is warranted that it existed in Greek as well as in Latin; and if in Greek, it must have originated not later than the first half of the third century a.d. Its genuineness was defended by Gregory the Great (sixth century), Aelfric of Cerne (tenth century), John of Salisbury (twelfth century), and many others.

It is found in several older editions of the English, German, Dutch and other Bibles. For more than nine centuries this forged epistle hovered about the doors of the sacred Canon, without ever finding admission or being peremptorily excluded. At length the revival of learning dealt its death-blow to this as to so many other spurious pretensions 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 p. 299). For the Latin text of this forgery see Lightfoot, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 pp. 287 289; for Lightfoot s reconstruction of the Greek text, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 pp. 293, 294; and for two forms of the letter in its old English dress, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 pp. 298, 299. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn18 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref18” 175 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.12.5|AUTODETECT|” Paul uses it 22 times. Not in every instance are commentators and translators in complete agreement as to its exact, contextual significance. Thus, in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.12.5|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 12:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 it is rendered variously: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 service, ministration, dispensation, ministry;) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.7|AUTODETECT|” and similar variety obtains with respect to the meanings assigned to it in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.7|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 3:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (twice). Fairly certain, however, is the meaning ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 relief, care) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (for the poor), ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 contribution) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.31|AUTODETECT|” (to relieve the needy), in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.31|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:31) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.4|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 8:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.1|AUTODETECT|” 9:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Service,) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.15|AUTODETECT|” of some kind or of any kind whatever, seems to be the meaning in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.15|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.8|AUTODETECT|” and in ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.8|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . In many passages ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 spiritual office) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (for example, that of apostle or of evangelist) and/or its ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 administration) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 is clearly shown to be the meaning in the light of the specific context in which the word is used. It is then defined in such terms as the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 diakonia) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 of reconciliation, the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 diakonia) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.13|AUTODETECT|” for the building up of the body of Christ or is used as a synonym of an expression like the work of an evangelist. Clear examples of this usage though in a few cases even this is disputed are the following: ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.13|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.7|AUTODETECT|” 12:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.1|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.18|AUTODETECT|” 5:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.3|AUTODETECT|” 6:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.12|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.5|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.17|AUTODETECT|” . It would seem that ) 14 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.17|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 also belongs here. As to the meaning of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the cognate verb) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 see N.T.C. on I and II Timothy and Titus, p. 135, especially footnote 67; and for ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the cognate noun) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 see the same volume, p. 130, especially footnote 65. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn19 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref19” 176 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Some manuscripts add Amen, but this addition may stem from liturgical usage or may have been added by a scribe who happened to remember that this was the concluding word in Galatians and, according to the best reading, also in Romans.)