1 Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.

2 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;

3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.

5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

6 Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

7 All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord:

8 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts;

9 With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here.

10 Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)

11 And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me.

12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.

13 For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis.

14 Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you.

15 Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house.

16 And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea.

17 And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.

18 The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Masters to do their duty towards servants.
The apostle proceeds with the duty of masters to their servants. Not only justice is required of them, but strict equity and kindness. Let them deal with servants as they expect God should deal with themselves.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Just - According to your contract. Equitable - Even beyond the letter of your contract.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Masters, what is just. He mentions first,what is just, by which term he expresses that kindness, as to which he has given injunction in the Epistle to the Ephesians. (Ephesians 6:8.) But as masters, looking down as it were from aloft, despise the condition of servants, so that they think that they are bound by no law, Paul brings them under control,because both are equally under subjection to the authority of God. Hence thatequityof which he makes mention.And mutual equity.Some understand it otherwise, but I have no doubt that Paul here employedἰσότηταto mean analogicalor distributive right,as inEphesians,τὰ αὐτὰ, (the same things.)For masters have not their servants bound to them in such a manner as not to owe something to them in their turn, as analogical right to be in force among all ranks.
McArther Bible Commentary
Masters. See note on Eph 6:9.
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 25:43 Ephesians 6:9

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Persons of all ranks to persevere in prayer, and Christian prudence.
No duties can be done aright, unless we persevere in fervent prayer, and watch therein with thanksgiving. The people are to pray particularly for their ministers. Believers are exhorted to right conduct towards unbelievers. Be careful in all converse with them, to do them good, and recommend religion by all fit means. Diligence in redeeming time, commends religion to the good opinion of others. Even what is only carelessness may cause a lasting prejudice against the truth. Let all discourse be discreet and seasonable, as becomes Christians. Though it be not always of grace, it must always be with grace. Though our discourse be of that which is common, yet it must be in a Christian manner. Grace is the salt which seasons our discourse, and keeps it from corrupting. It is not enough to answer what is asked, unless we answer aright also.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Continue in prayer. He returns to general exhortations, in which we must not expect an exact order, for in that case he would have begun with prayer, but Paul had not an eye to that. Farther, as to prayer, he commends here two things;first, assiduity;secondly, alacrity, or earnest intentness. For, when he says,continue, he exhorts to perseverance, while he makes mention ofwatchingin opposition to coldness, and listlessness.He adds, thanksgiving, because God must be solicited for present necessity in such a way that, in the mean time, we do not forget favors already received. Farther, we ought not to be so importunate as to murmur, and feel offended if God does not immediately gratify our wishes, but must receive contentedly whatever he gives. Thus a twofoldgiving of thanksis necessary. As to this point something has also been said in the Epistle to the Philippians. (Philippians 4:6.)
McArther Bible Commentary
Continue earnestly. The Greek word means "to be courageously persistent" or "to hold fast and not let go" and refers here to persistent prayer (Act 1:14; Rom 12:12; Eph 6:18; 1Th 5:17; cf. Luk 11:5-10; Luk 18:1-8). being vigilant. In its most general sense, this means to stay awake while praying. But Paul has in mind the broader implication of staying alert for specific needs about which to pray, rather than being vague and unfocused. Cf. Mat 26:41; Mar 14:38; Luk 21:36.
Bible Cross References
Mark 13:33 Acts 1:14 Ephesians 6:18

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Persons of all ranks to persevere in prayer, and Christian prudence.
No duties can be done aright, unless we persevere in fervent prayer, and watch therein with thanksgiving. The people are to pray particularly for their ministers. Believers are exhorted to right conduct towards unbelievers. Be careful in all converse with them, to do them good, and recommend religion by all fit means. Diligence in redeeming time, commends religion to the good opinion of others. Even what is only carelessness may cause a lasting prejudice against the truth. Let all discourse be discreet and seasonable, as becomes Christians. Though it be not always of grace, it must always be with grace. Though our discourse be of that which is common, yet it must be in a Christian manner. Grace is the salt which seasons our discourse, and keeps it from corrupting. It is not enough to answer what is asked, unless we answer aright also.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
That God would open to us a door of utterance - That is, give us utterance, that we "may open our mouth boldly," (Ephesians 6:19) , and give us an opportunity of speaking, so that none may be able to hinder.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
It is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father that speaketh in you. (Matthew 10:20.)Having, therefore, set forward the difficulty, he stirs up the Colossians the more to prayer, by declaring that he cannot speak right, except in so far as his tongue is directed by the Lord. Secondly, he argues from the dignityof the matter, when he calls the gospel themystery of Christ. For we must labor in a more perfunctory manner in a matter of such importance.Thirdly, he makes mention also of his danger.
McArther Bible Commentary
a door. An opportunity (1Co 16:8-9; 2Co 2:12). the mystery of Christ. See notes on Col 1:26-27; Col 2:2-3.
Bible Cross References
Acts 14:27 Romans 16:25 Ephesians 3:3 Ephesians 3:4 Ephesians 3:9 Ephesians 6:19 Ephesians 6:20 Colossians 1:26 Colossians 2:2 Colossians 4:18 2 Timothy 4:2

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Persons of all ranks to persevere in prayer, and Christian prudence.
No duties can be done aright, unless we persevere in fervent prayer, and watch therein with thanksgiving. The people are to pray particularly for their ministers. Believers are exhorted to right conduct towards unbelievers. Be careful in all converse with them, to do them good, and recommend religion by all fit means. Diligence in redeeming time, commends religion to the good opinion of others. Even what is only carelessness may cause a lasting prejudice against the truth. Let all discourse be discreet and seasonable, as becomes Christians. Though it be not always of grace, it must always be with grace. Though our discourse be of that which is common, yet it must be in a Christian manner. Grace is the salt which seasons our discourse, and keeps it from corrupting. It is not enough to answer what is asked, unless we answer aright also.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
As I ought. This clause sets forth more strongly the difficulty, for he intimates that it is no ordinary matter. In the Epistle to the Ephesians, (Ephesians 6:20,) he adds,ἵνα παῤῥησιάσωμαι, (that I may speak boldly,) from which it appears that he desired for himself an undaunted confidence, such as befits the majesty of the gospel. Farther, as Paul here does nothing else than desire that grace may be given him for the discharge of his office, let us bear in mind that a rule is in like manner prescribed to us, not to give way to the fury of our adversaries, but to strive even to death in the publication of the gospel. As this, however, is beyond our power, it is necessary that we shouldcontinue in prayer, that the Lord may not leave us destitute of the spirit of confidence.
Bible Cross References
Ephesians 6:20 Colossians 4:5

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Persons of all ranks to persevere in prayer, and Christian prudence.
No duties can be done aright, unless we persevere in fervent prayer, and watch therein with thanksgiving. The people are to pray particularly for their ministers. Believers are exhorted to right conduct towards unbelievers. Be careful in all converse with them, to do them good, and recommend religion by all fit means. Diligence in redeeming time, commends religion to the good opinion of others. Even what is only carelessness may cause a lasting prejudice against the truth. Let all discourse be discreet and seasonable, as becomes Christians. Though it be not always of grace, it must always be with grace. Though our discourse be of that which is common, yet it must be in a Christian manner. Grace is the salt which seasons our discourse, and keeps it from corrupting. It is not enough to answer what is asked, unless we answer aright also.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
lest any stumblingblock be put in,the way of the blind, (Leviticus 19:14,)for nothing is more ready to occur, than that unbelievers are driven from bad to worse through our imprudence, and their minds are wounded, so that they hold religion more and more in abhorrence. Secondly, it is lest any occasion may be given for detracting from the honor of the gospel, and thus the name of Christ be exposed to derision, persons be rendered more hostile, and disturbances and persecutions be stirred up.Lastly, it is, lest, while we are mingled together, in partaking of food, and on other occasions, we be defiled by their pollutions, and by little and little become profane.To the same effect, also, is what follows, redeeming the time, that is, because intercourse with them is dangerous. For inEphesians 5:16, he assigns the reason,becausethe days are evil. “Amidst so great a corruption as prevails in the world we must seize opportunities of doing good, and we must struggle against impediments.” The more, therefore, that our path is blocked up with occasions of offense, so much the more carefully must we take heed lest our feet should stumble, or we should stop short through indolence.
McArther Bible Commentary
those … outside. This refers to unbelievers. See notes on Eph 5:15-16. Believers are called to live in such a way that they establish the credibility of the Christian faith and make the most of every evangelistic opportunity.
Bible Cross References
Mark 4:11 Ephesians 5:15 Ephesians 5:16 1 Thessalonians 4:12

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Persons of all ranks to persevere in prayer, and Christian prudence.
No duties can be done aright, unless we persevere in fervent prayer, and watch therein with thanksgiving. The people are to pray particularly for their ministers. Believers are exhorted to right conduct towards unbelievers. Be careful in all converse with them, to do them good, and recommend religion by all fit means. Diligence in redeeming time, commends religion to the good opinion of others. Even what is only carelessness may cause a lasting prejudice against the truth. Let all discourse be discreet and seasonable, as becomes Christians. Though it be not always of grace, it must always be with grace. Though our discourse be of that which is common, yet it must be in a Christian manner. Grace is the salt which seasons our discourse, and keeps it from corrupting. It is not enough to answer what is asked, unless we answer aright also.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
(Titus 2:8). Powers of Speech Sanctified
—As you arose from the watery grave at the time of your baptism, you professed to be dead, and declared that your life was changed—hid with Christ in God. You claimed to be dead to sin, and cleansed from your hereditary and cultivated traits of evil. In going forward in the rite of baptism, you pledged yourselves before God to remain dead to sin. Your mouth was to remain a sanctified mouth, your tongue a converted tongue. You were to speak of God's goodness, and to praise His holy name. Thus you were to be a great help and blessing to the church (Manuscript 95, 1906).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Let your speech be always with grace - Seasoned with the grace of God, as flesh is with salt.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Your speech. He requires suavity of speech, such as may allure the hearers by its profitableness, for he does not merely condemn communications that are openly wicked or impious, but also such as are worthless and idle. Hence he would have themseasoned with salt. Profane men have their seasonings of discourse,but he does not speak of them; nay more, as witticisms are insinuating, and for the most part procure favor,he indirectly prohibits believers from the practice and familiar use of them. For he reckons as tasteless everything that does not edify. The termgraceis employed in the same sense, so as to be opposed to talkativeness, taunts, and all sorts of trifles which are either injurious or vain.That ye may know how.The man who has accustomed himself to caution in his communications will not fall into many absurdities, into which talkative and prating persons fall into from time to time, but, by constant practice, will acquire for himself expertness in making proper and suitable replies; as, on the other hand, it must necessarily happen, that silly talkers expose themselves to derision whenever they are interrogated as to anything; and in this they pay the just punishment of their silly talkativeness. Nor does he merely saywhat, but alsohow, and not to all indiscriminately, but toevery one. For this is not the least important part of prudence — to have due regard to individuals.
McArther Bible Commentary
with grace. To speak what is spiritual, wholesome, fitting, kind, sensitive, purposeful, complimentary, gentle, truthful, loving, and thoughtful (see notes on Eph 4:29-31). seasoned with salt. Just as salt not only flavors, but prevents corruption, the Christian's speech should act not only as a blessing to others, but as a purifying influence within the decaying society of the world.
Bible Cross References
Ezekiel 43:24 Matthew 12:35 Mark 9:50 Ephesians 4:29 1 Peter 3:15

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle refers to others for an account of his affairs.
Ministers are servants to Christ, and fellow-servants to one another. They have one Lord, though they have different stations and powers for service. It is a great comfort under the troubles and difficulties of life, to have fellow Christians caring for us. Circumstances of life make no difference in the spiritual relation among sincere Christians; they partake of the same privileges, and are entitled to the same regards. What amazing changes Divine grace makes! Faithless servants become faithful and beloved brethren, and some who had done wrong, become fellow-workers of good.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
My things. That the Colossians may know what concern he has for them, he confirms them, by giving them, in a manner, a pledge. For although he was in prison, and was in danger of his life, making care for himself a secondary matter, he consults for their interests by sending Tychicus to them. In this the singular zeal, no less than prudence of the holy Apostle, shines forth; for it is no small matter that, while he is held prisoner, and is in the most imminent danger on account of the gospel, he, nevertheless, does not cease to employ himself in advancing the gospel, and takes care of all the Churches. Thus, the body, indeed, is under confinement, but the mind, anxious to employ itself in everything good, roams far and wide. His prudence shews itself in his sending a fit and prudent person to confirm them, as far as was necessary, and withstand the craftiness of the false apostles; and, farther, in his retaining Epaphras beside himself, until they should come to learn what and how great an agreement there was in doctrine among all true teachers, and might hear from Tychicus the same thing that they had previously learned from Epaphras. Let us carefully meditate on these examples, that they may stir us up to all imitation of the like pursuit.
McArther Bible Commentary
Tychicus. The name means "fortuitous" or "fortunate." He was one of the Gentile converts Paul took to Jerusalem as a representative of the Gentile churches (Act 20:4). He was a reliable companion of Paul and a capable leader, since he was considered as a replacement for Titus and Timothy on separate occasions (2Ti 4:12; Tit 3:12). He had the responsibility to deliver Paul's letters to the Colossians, the Ephesians (Eph 6:21), and Philemon (Col 4:9).
Bible Cross References
Acts 20:4 Ephesians 6:21 Ephesians 6:22 Colossians 1:7 2 Timothy 4:12 Titus 3:12

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle refers to others for an account of his affairs.
Ministers are servants to Christ, and fellow-servants to one another. They have one Lord, though they have different stations and powers for service. It is a great comfort under the troubles and difficulties of life, to have fellow Christians caring for us. Circumstances of life make no difference in the spiritual relation among sincere Christians; they partake of the same privileges, and are entitled to the same regards. What amazing changes Divine grace makes! Faithless servants become faithful and beloved brethren, and some who had done wrong, become fellow-workers of good.
Bible Cross References
Ephesians 6:22 Colossians 2:2

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle refers to others for an account of his affairs.
Ministers are servants to Christ, and fellow-servants to one another. They have one Lord, though they have different stations and powers for service. It is a great comfort under the troubles and difficulties of life, to have fellow Christians caring for us. Circumstances of life make no difference in the spiritual relation among sincere Christians; they partake of the same privileges, and are entitled to the same regards. What amazing changes Divine grace makes! Faithless servants become faithful and beloved brethren, and some who had done wrong, become fellow-workers of good.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
He adds, Onesimus, that the embassy may have the more weight. It is, however, uncertain who this Onesimus was. For it can scarcely be believed that this is the slave of Philemon, inasmuch as the name of a thief and a fugitive would have been liable to reproach.He distinguishes both of them by honorable titles, that they may do the more good, and especially Tychicus, who was to exercise the office of an instructor.
McArther Bible Commentary
Onesimus. The runaway slave whose return to his master was the basis for Paul's letter to Philemon (see Introduction to Philemon: Background and Setting).
Bible Cross References
Colossians 1:7 Colossians 4:12 Philemon 1:10

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Sends greetings; and concludes with a blessing.
Paul had differed with Barnabas, on the account of this Mark, yet he is not only reconciled, but recommends him to the churches; an example of a truly Christian and forgiving spirit. If men have been guilty of a fault, it must not always be remembered against them. We must forget as well as forgive. The apostle had comfort in the communion of saints and ministers. One is his fellow-servant, another his fellow-prisoner, and all his fellow-workers, working out their own salvation, and endeavouring to promote the salvation of others. The effectual, fervent prayer is the prevailing prayer, and availeth much. The smiles, flatteries, or frowns of the world, the spirit of error, or the working of self-love, leads many to a way of preaching and living which comes far short of fulfilling their ministry. But those who preach the same doctrine as Paul, and follow his example, may expect the Divine favour and blessing.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Aristarchus my fellowprisoner - Such was Epaphras likewise for a time, (Philemon 1:23) . Ye have received directions - Namely, by Tychicus, bringing this letter. The ancients adapted their language to the time of reading the letter; not, as we do, to the time when it was written. It is not improbable, they might have scrupled to receive him, without this fresh direction, after he had left St. Paul, and "departed from the work."
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Fellow-prisoner.From this it appears that there were others that were associated with Paul,after he was brought to Rome. It is also probable that his enemies exerted themselves, in the outset, to deter all pious persons from giving him help, by threatening them with the like danger, and that this for a time had the desired effect; but that afterwards some, gathering up courage, despised everything that was held out to them in the way of terror.That ye receive him.Some manuscripts havereceivein the imperative mood; but it is a mistake, for he expresses the nature of thechargewhich the Colossians had received — that it was a commendation of either Barnabas, or of Marcus. The latter is the more probable. In the Greek it is the infinitive mood,but it may be rendered in the way I have done. Let us, however, observe, that they were careful in furnishing attestations, that they might distinguish good men from false brethren — from pretenders, from impostors, and multitudes of vagrants. The same care is more than simply necessary at the present day, both because good teachers are coldly received, and because credulous and foolish men lay themselves too open to be deceived by impostors.
McArther Bible Commentary
Aristarchus. The Greek name of a Jewish (cf. Col 4:11) native of Thessalonica (Act 20:4; Act 27:2). He was one of Paul's companions who was seized by a rioting mob in Ephesus (Act 19:29) and also accompanied Paul on his trip to Jerusalem and his voyage to Rome (Act 27:4). Mark. See notes on Act 13:5, Act 13:13; see Introduction to Mark: Author and Date. After having fallen out of favor with Paul for some time, Mark is seen here as one of Paul's key helpers (cf. 2Ti 4:11).
Bible Cross References
Acts 4:36 Acts 12:12 Acts 12:25 Acts 15:37 Acts 15:39 Acts 19:29 Acts 27:2 Romans 16:7 2 Timothy 4:11 Philemon 1:23 Philemon 1:24 1 Peter 5:13

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Sends greetings; and concludes with a blessing.
Paul had differed with Barnabas, on the account of this Mark, yet he is not only reconciled, but recommends him to the churches; an example of a truly Christian and forgiving spirit. If men have been guilty of a fault, it must not always be remembered against them. We must forget as well as forgive. The apostle had comfort in the communion of saints and ministers. One is his fellow-servant, another his fellow-prisoner, and all his fellow-workers, working out their own salvation, and endeavouring to promote the salvation of others. The effectual, fervent prayer is the prevailing prayer, and availeth much. The smiles, flatteries, or frowns of the world, the spirit of error, or the working of self-love, leads many to a way of preaching and living which comes far short of fulfilling their ministry. But those who preach the same doctrine as Paul, and follow his example, may expect the Divine favour and blessing.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
These - Three, Aristarchus, Marcus, and Justus. Of all the circumcision - That is, of all my Jewish fellowlabourers. Are the only fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God - That is, in preaching the gospel. Who have been a comfort to me - What, then, can we expect? that all our fellowworkers should be a comfort to us?
John Calvin Bible Commentary
These only are fellow-workers,— that is, of the circumcision; for he afterwards names others, but they were of the uncircumcision. He means, therefore, that there were few Jews at Rome who shewed themselves to be helpers to the gospel, nay more, that the whole nation was opposed to Christ. At the same time, byworkershe means those only who were endowed with gifts that were necessary for promoting the gospel. But where was Peter at that time? Unquestionably, he has either been shamefully passed over here, and not without injustice, or else those speak falsely who maintain that he was then at Rome. Farther, he calls the gospel thekingdom of God, for it is the scepter by which God reigns over us, and by means of it we are singled out to life eternal.But of this form of expression we shall treat more fully elsewhere.
McArther Bible Commentary
Jesus who is called Justus. Possibly one of the Roman Jews who believed Paul's message (Act 28:24). kingdom of God. See note on Col 1:13.
Bible Cross References
Acts 11:2 Romans 16:3

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Sends greetings; and concludes with a blessing.
Paul had differed with Barnabas, on the account of this Mark, yet he is not only reconciled, but recommends him to the churches; an example of a truly Christian and forgiving spirit. If men have been guilty of a fault, it must not always be remembered against them. We must forget as well as forgive. The apostle had comfort in the communion of saints and ministers. One is his fellow-servant, another his fellow-prisoner, and all his fellow-workers, working out their own salvation, and endeavouring to promote the salvation of others. The effectual, fervent prayer is the prevailing prayer, and availeth much. The smiles, flatteries, or frowns of the world, the spirit of error, or the working of self-love, leads many to a way of preaching and living which comes far short of fulfilling their ministry. But those who preach the same doctrine as Paul, and follow his example, may expect the Divine favour and blessing.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Perfect - Endued with every Christian grace. Filled - As no longer being babes, but grown up to the measure of the stature of Christ; being full of his light, grace, wisdom, holiness.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Always striving.Here we have an example of a good pastor, whom distance of place cannot induce to forget the Church, so as to prevent him from taking the care of it with him beyond the sea. We must notice, also, the strength of entreaty that is expressed in the wordstriving. For although the Apostle had it in view here to express intensity of affection, he at the same time admonishes the Colossians not to look upon the prayers of their pastor as useless, but, on the contrary, to reckon that they would afford them no small assistance. Lastly, let us infer from Paul’s words, that theperfectionof Christians is, when theystand complete in the will of God, that they may not suspend their scheme of life upon anything else.
McArther Bible Commentary
Epaphras. See Introduction: Background and Setting. perfect and complete. His goal for the Colossian believers was the same as Paul's (cf. Col. 1:28-2:2).
Bible Cross References
Luke 1:1 Romans 15:30 Colossians 1:7 Colossians 1:28 Colossians 1:29 Colossians 2:1 Colossians 4:9 Philemon 1:23 James 1:4

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Sends greetings; and concludes with a blessing.
Paul had differed with Barnabas, on the account of this Mark, yet he is not only reconciled, but recommends him to the churches; an example of a truly Christian and forgiving spirit. If men have been guilty of a fault, it must not always be remembered against them. We must forget as well as forgive. The apostle had comfort in the communion of saints and ministers. One is his fellow-servant, another his fellow-prisoner, and all his fellow-workers, working out their own salvation, and endeavouring to promote the salvation of others. The effectual, fervent prayer is the prevailing prayer, and availeth much. The smiles, flatteries, or frowns of the world, the spirit of error, or the working of self-love, leads many to a way of preaching and living which comes far short of fulfilling their ministry. But those who preach the same doctrine as Paul, and follow his example, may expect the Divine favour and blessing.
McArther Bible Commentary
Laodicea. See note on Col 2:1. Hierapolis. A city in Phrygia twenty miles west of Colosse and six miles north of Laodicea (see Introduction: Background and Setting).
Bible Cross References
Colossians 2:1 Colossians 4:15 Colossians 4:16

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Sends greetings; and concludes with a blessing.
Paul had differed with Barnabas, on the account of this Mark, yet he is not only reconciled, but recommends him to the churches; an example of a truly Christian and forgiving spirit. If men have been guilty of a fault, it must not always be remembered against them. We must forget as well as forgive. The apostle had comfort in the communion of saints and ministers. One is his fellow-servant, another his fellow-prisoner, and all his fellow-workers, working out their own salvation, and endeavouring to promote the salvation of others. The effectual, fervent prayer is the prevailing prayer, and availeth much. The smiles, flatteries, or frowns of the world, the spirit of error, or the working of self-love, leads many to a way of preaching and living which comes far short of fulfilling their ministry. But those who preach the same doctrine as Paul, and follow his example, may expect the Divine favour and blessing.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Luke, the physician - Such he had been, at least, if he was not then.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Luke saluteth you.I do not agree with those who understand this to be Luke the Evangelist; for I am of opinion that he was too well known to stand in need of such a designation, and he would have been signalized by a more magnificent eulogium. He would, undoubtedly, have called him his fellow-helper, or at least his companion and participant in his conflicts. I rather conjecture that he was absent at that time, and that it is another of the same name that is called aphysician,to distinguish him from the other.Demas, of whom he makes mention, is undoubtedly the person of whom he complains — that he afterwards deserted him. (2 Timothy 4:10.)
McArther Bible Commentary
Luke. Paul's personal physician and close friend who traveled frequently with him on his missionary journeys and wrote the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts (see Introductions to the Gospel of Luke and Acts: Author and Date). Demas. A man who demonstrated substantial commitment to the Lord's work before the attraction of the world led him to abandon Paul and the ministry (2Ti 4:9-10; Phm 1:24).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 9:12 2 Timothy 4:10 2 Timothy 4:11 Philemon 1:24

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Sends greetings; and concludes with a blessing.
Paul had differed with Barnabas, on the account of this Mark, yet he is not only reconciled, but recommends him to the churches; an example of a truly Christian and forgiving spirit. If men have been guilty of a fault, it must not always be remembered against them. We must forget as well as forgive. The apostle had comfort in the communion of saints and ministers. One is his fellow-servant, another his fellow-prisoner, and all his fellow-workers, working out their own salvation, and endeavouring to promote the salvation of others. The effectual, fervent prayer is the prevailing prayer, and availeth much. The smiles, flatteries, or frowns of the world, the spirit of error, or the working of self-love, leads many to a way of preaching and living which comes far short of fulfilling their ministry. But those who preach the same doctrine as Paul, and follow his example, may expect the Divine favour and blessing.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Nymphas - Probably an eminent Christian at Laodicea.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
When he speaks of the Church which was in the house of Nymphas, let us bear in mind, that, in the instance of one household, a rule is laid down as to what it becomes all Christian households to be — that they be so many little Churches. Let every one, therefore, know that this charge is laid upon him — that he is to train up his house in the fear of the Lord, to keep it under a holy discipline, and, in fine, to form in it the likeness of a Church.
McArther Bible Commentary
Nymphas and the church … in his house. Other manuscripts make the name feminine (Nympha) and indicate the church met in her house, probably in Laodicea.
Bible Cross References
Romans 16:5 Colossians 2:1 Colossians 4:13 Colossians 4:16

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Sends greetings; and concludes with a blessing.
Paul had differed with Barnabas, on the account of this Mark, yet he is not only reconciled, but recommends him to the churches; an example of a truly Christian and forgiving spirit. If men have been guilty of a fault, it must not always be remembered against them. We must forget as well as forgive. The apostle had comfort in the communion of saints and ministers. One is his fellow-servant, another his fellow-prisoner, and all his fellow-workers, working out their own salvation, and endeavouring to promote the salvation of others. The effectual, fervent prayer is the prevailing prayer, and availeth much. The smiles, flatteries, or frowns of the world, the spirit of error, or the working of self-love, leads many to a way of preaching and living which comes far short of fulfilling their ministry. But those who preach the same doctrine as Paul, and follow his example, may expect the Divine favour and blessing.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
The epistle from Laodicea - Not to Laodicea. Perhaps some letter had been written to St. Paul from thence.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Let it be read in the Church of the Laodiceans.Hence, though it was addressed to the Colossians, it was, nevertheless, necessary that it should be profitable to others. The same view must also be taken of all the Epistles. They were indeed, in the first instance, addressed to particular Churches, but, as they contain doctrine that is always in force, and is common to all ages, it is of no importance what title they bear, for the subject matter belongs to us. It has been groundlessly supposed that the other Epistle of which he makes mention was written by Paul, and those labor under a double mistake who think that it was written by Paul to the Laodiceans. I have no doubt that it was an Epistle that had been sent to Paul, the perusal of which might be profitable to the Colossians, as neighboring towns have usually many things in common. There was, however, an exceedingly gross imposture in the circumstance that some worthless person, I know not who, had the audacity to forge, under this pretext, an Epistle, that is so insipid,that nothing can be conceived to be more foreign to Paul’s spirit.
McArther Bible Commentary
when this epistle is read among you. This letter was to be publicly read in the churches in Colosse and in Laodicea. epistle from Laodicea. A separate letter from Paul, usually identified as the epistle to the Ephesians. The oldest manuscripts of Ephesians do not contain the words "in Ephesus," indicating that in all likelihood it was a circular letter intended for several churches in the region. Tychicus may have delivered Ephesians to the church at Laodicea first.
Bible Cross References
Colossians 2:1 Colossians 4:13 Colossians 4:15 1 Thessalonians 5:27 2 Thessalonians 3:14

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Sends greetings; and concludes with a blessing.
Paul had differed with Barnabas, on the account of this Mark, yet he is not only reconciled, but recommends him to the churches; an example of a truly Christian and forgiving spirit. If men have been guilty of a fault, it must not always be remembered against them. We must forget as well as forgive. The apostle had comfort in the communion of saints and ministers. One is his fellow-servant, another his fellow-prisoner, and all his fellow-workers, working out their own salvation, and endeavouring to promote the salvation of others. The effectual, fervent prayer is the prevailing prayer, and availeth much. The smiles, flatteries, or frowns of the world, the spirit of error, or the working of self-love, leads many to a way of preaching and living which comes far short of fulfilling their ministry. But those who preach the same doctrine as Paul, and follow his example, may expect the Divine favour and blessing.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And say to Archippus - One of the pastors of that church. Take heed - It is the duty of the flock to try them that say they are apostles to reject the false, and to warn, as well as to receive, the real. The ministry - Not a lordship, but a service; a laborious and painful work; an obligation to do and suffer all things; to be the least, and the servant, of all. In the Lord - Christ by whom, and for whose sake, we receive the various gifts of the Holy Spirit.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Say to Archippus.So far as I can conjecture, this Archippus was, in the mean time, discharging the office of pastor, during the absence of Epaphras; but perhaps he was not of such a disposition as to be sufficiently diligent of himself without being stirred up. Paul, accordingly, would have him be more fully encouraged by the exhortation of the whole Church. He might have admonished him in his own name individually; but he gives this charge to the Colossians that they may know that they must themselves employ incitements,if they see their pastor cold, and the pastor himself does not refuse to be admonished by the Church. For the ministers of the word are endowed with signal authority, but such at the same time as is not exempt from laws. Hence, it is necessary that they should shew themselves teachable if they would duly teach others. As to Paul’s calling attention againto hisbonds, he intimates by this that he was in no slight degree afflicted. For he was mindful of human infirmity, and without doubt he felt some twinges of it in himself, inasmuch as he was so very urgent that all pious persons, should be mindful of his distresses. It is, however, no evidence of distrust, that he calls in from all quarters the helps that were appointed him by the Lord. The subscription,with his own hand, means, as we have seen elsewhere, that there were even then spurious epistles in circulation, so that it was necessary to provide against imposition.END OF THE COMMENTARY ON THE EPISTLE TO THE COLOSSIANS.
McArther Bible Commentary
Archippus. Most likely the son of Philemon (Phm 1:2). Paul's message to him to fulfill his ministry is similar to the exhortation to Timothy (2Ti 4:5).
Bible Cross References
2 Timothy 4:5 Philemon 1:2

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Sends greetings; and concludes with a blessing.
Paul had differed with Barnabas, on the account of this Mark, yet he is not only reconciled, but recommends him to the churches; an example of a truly Christian and forgiving spirit. If men have been guilty of a fault, it must not always be remembered against them. We must forget as well as forgive. The apostle had comfort in the communion of saints and ministers. One is his fellow-servant, another his fellow-prisoner, and all his fellow-workers, working out their own salvation, and endeavouring to promote the salvation of others. The effectual, fervent prayer is the prevailing prayer, and availeth much. The smiles, flatteries, or frowns of the world, the spirit of error, or the working of self-love, leads many to a way of preaching and living which comes far short of fulfilling their ministry. But those who preach the same doctrine as Paul, and follow his example, may expect the Divine favour and blessing.
McArther Bible Commentary
by my own hand. Paul usually dictated his letters to an amanuensis (recording secretary), but would often add his own greeting in his own writing at the end of his letters (cf. 1Co 16:21; Gal 6:11; 2Th 3:17; Phm 1:19). Remember my chains. See note on Php 1:16; see Introduction to Ephesians: Background and Setting. Cf. Heb 13:3.
Bible Cross References
Romans 16:22 1 Corinthians 16:21 Philippians 1:7 Colossians 4:3 1 Timothy 6:21 2 Timothy 4:22 Titus 3:15 Hebrews 13:3 Hebrews 13:25