7 All the things concerning me make known to you shall Tychicus—the beloved brother, and faithful ministrant, and fellow-servant in the Lord— 8 whom I did send unto you for this very thing, that he might know the things concerning you, and might comfort your hearts, 9 with Onesimus the faithful and beloved brother, who is of you; all things to you shall they make known that 'are' here. 10 Salute you doth Aristarchus, my fellow-captive, and Marcus, the nephew of Barnabas, (concerning whom ye did receive commands—if he may come unto you receive him,) 11 and Jesus who is called Justus, who are of the circumcision: these only 'are' fellow-workers for the reign of God who did become a comfort to me. 12 Salute you doth Epaphras, who 'is' of you, a servant of Christ, always striving for you in the prayers, that ye may stand perfect and made full in all the will of God, 13 for I do testify to him, that he hath much zeal for you, and those in Laodicea, and those in Hierapolis. 14 Salute you doth Lukas, the beloved physician, and Demas;
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Colossians 4:7-14
Commentary on Colossians 4:7-9
(Read Colossians 4:7-9)
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.
Commentary on Colossians 4:10-18
(Read Colossians 4:10-18)
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.