2 Give yourselves to prayer at all times, keeping watch with praise; 3 And making prayer for us, that God may give us an open door for the preaching of the word, the secret of Christ, for which I am now in chains; 4 So that I may make it clear, as it is right for me to do.
5 Be wise in your behaviour to those who are outside, making good use of the time. 6 Let your talk be with grace, mixed with salt, so that you may be able to give an answer to everyone.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Colossians 4:2-6
Commentary on Colossians 4:2-6
(Read Colossians 4:2-6)
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.