A new community of shared faith and love - O se faapotopotoga fou ua fusia faatasi i le faatuatua ma le alofa

Scripture Focus: Kolose 4:7-18

All my affairs will be made known to you by Tychicus, the beloved brother, faithful servant, and fellow bondservant in the Lord. I am sending him to you for this very purpose, that he may know your circumstances and comfort your hearts, together with Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will make known to you everything that is going on here. Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, greets you, and Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you received commandments, “if he comes to you, receive him”), and Jesus who is called Justus. These are my only fellow workers for the Kingdom of God who are of the circumcision, men who have been a comfort to me. Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, salutes you, always striving for you in his prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. For I testify about him, that he has great zeal for you, and for those in Laodicea, and for those in Hierapolis. Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas greet you. Greet the brothers who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the assembly that is in his house. When this letter has been read among you, cause it to be read also in the assembly of the Laodiceans; and that you also read the letter from Laodicea. Tell Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you fulfill it.” The salutation of me, Paul, with my own hand: remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen.
- Colossians 4:7-18 (WEB)

Study:

Paul concludes his letter to the Colossians with a flurry of personal greetings and instructions. He sends Tychicus and Onesimus as messengers, offering updates and encouragement. He acknowledges the contributions of Aristarchus, Mark, and Jesus Justus as fellow workers. The passage highlights the importance of supporting and receiving those who serve the Lord. Paul's commendation of Epaphras underscores the value of persistent prayer for others and a genuine zeal for their spiritual growth. Finally, he tasks Archippus with fulfilling his ministry responsibilities, reminding him to stay focused on the work God has called him to do. The personal touch of Paul writing the final greeting with his own hand emphasizes the authenticity of his message and his concern for the Colossian believers.

Application:

This passage reminds us that faith is not a solitary pursuit but is lived out within a community. We are connected to fellow believers, and we have a responsibility to support, encourage, and pray for one another. Just like Paul depended on his coworkers, we too benefit from the gifts and contributions of those around us. The charge to Archippus to fulfill his ministry is a call to us to identify and faithfully embrace our own God-given calling, no matter how small it may seem. This passage inspires us to foster strong relationships within the church, extend hospitality, and actively participate in the work of the Kingdom.

Reflection Questions:

• Who are the “Tychicus” and “Onesimus” in your life – those who serve as vital links in your spiritual community?
• How can you more intentionally support and encourage fellow believers?
• What is the “ministry” God has entrusted to you, and are you faithfully fulfilling it?
• How does knowing we are part of a broader network of believers (like the churches in Laodicea and Hierapolis) impact your faith?

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of community and for the fellow believers who journey with us. Help us to be faithful in our support and encouragement of one another. Reveal to us the ministry you have called us to, and grant us the strength and courage to fulfill it with joy and dedication. Help us to remember those who are serving the Lord and strengthen and uplift our brothers and sisters. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Tags:Colossians, community, faith, encouragement, ministry, prayer, discipleship, relationships, Paul, Tychicus, Onesimus, Epaphras, Archippus