My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you greetings, as does Mark the cousin of Barnabas. You have already received instructions about him: If he comes to you, welcome him. Aristarchus, my fellow prisonerAristarchus is mentioned several times in the New Testament as a companion of Paul. The Greek name "Aristarchus" means "best ruler," indicating a noble or esteemed character. Historically, Aristarchus was a Macedonian from Thessalonica, and his presence with Paul during his missionary journeys, including the tumultuous events in Ephesus ( Acts 19:29) and the voyage to Rome ( Acts 27:2), highlights his steadfast loyalty and courage. The phrase "my fellow prisoner" suggests that Aristarchus shared in Paul's sufferings for the Gospel, possibly being imprisoned with him. This reflects the early Christian understanding of fellowship in suffering, as believers were often persecuted for their faith. sends you greetings
The act of sending greetings was a common practice in ancient letters, serving as a means of maintaining community and connection despite physical separation. In the early church, such greetings were not mere formalities but expressions of genuine love and concern. They reinforced the unity of the body of Christ, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. This greeting from Aristarchus would have been a source of encouragement to the Colossian believers, reminding them of their shared faith and mission. as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas
Mark, also known as John Mark, is a significant figure in the New Testament. His relationship with Barnabas, his cousin, is noteworthy because Barnabas was a prominent leader in the early church. The mention of Mark here is significant, considering his earlier departure from Paul and Barnabas during their first missionary journey (Acts 13:13), which led to a sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas (Acts 15:37-39). However, this reference in Colossians indicates a reconciliation and restoration of trust between Paul and Mark, exemplifying the Christian principles of forgiveness and restoration. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.)
The parenthetical note suggests that the Colossian church had prior instructions regarding Mark, possibly related to his role or mission. The Greek word for "instructions" (ἐντολή) can imply a command or directive, indicating that the church was to follow Paul's guidance concerning Mark. The exhortation to "welcome him" underscores the importance of hospitality and acceptance within the Christian community. It reflects the transformative power of the Gospel to heal past divisions and foster unity. This instruction would have served as a reminder to the Colossians to embrace Mark as a fellow worker in Christ, despite any previous misunderstandings or conflicts. Persons / Places / Events 1. AristarchusA fellow prisoner with Paul, Aristarchus was a Macedonian from Thessalonica who accompanied Paul on his missionary journeys. He is noted for his loyalty and willingness to suffer alongside Paul for the sake of the Gospel. 2. MarkAlso known as John Mark, he is the cousin of Barnabas. Mark is significant for his earlier departure from Paul and Barnabas on a missionary journey, which led to a temporary rift between Paul and Barnabas. However, he later became a valuable companion to Paul. 3. BarnabasA prominent leader in the early church, known for his encouragement and support of others, including Paul and Mark. His relationship with Mark highlights themes of reconciliation and restoration. 4. PaulThe apostle who wrote the letter to the Colossians while imprisoned. His mention of these individuals reflects his deep connections and the collaborative nature of early Christian ministry. 5. ColossaeThe city to which the letter is addressed, located in Asia Minor. The church in Colossae was dealing with various theological challenges, and Paul's letter aims to address these issues and encourage the believers. Teaching Points The Importance of ReconciliationThe mention of Mark, who had previously parted ways with Paul, underscores the power of reconciliation and forgiveness in Christian relationships. Believers are encouraged to seek restoration and unity. Faithfulness in MinistryAristarchus's example of enduring hardship alongside Paul highlights the call to faithfulness and perseverance in ministry, even in difficult circumstances. Welcoming Fellow BelieversPaul's instruction to welcome Mark reflects the importance of hospitality and acceptance within the Christian community. Believers are called to embrace and support one another. The Role of EncouragementBarnabas's influence on Mark and Paul illustrates the vital role of encouragement in nurturing faith and ministry. Christians are encouraged to be sources of encouragement to others. Collaboration in the GospelThe interconnectedness of these individuals in Paul's ministry demonstrates the importance of collaboration and partnership in advancing the Gospel. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the reconciliation between Paul and Mark challenge us to address conflicts and seek restoration in our own relationships? 2. In what ways can we demonstrate faithfulness and perseverance in our ministry or service, even when faced with challenges? 3. How can we practice hospitality and acceptance towards fellow believers, especially those who may have had past disagreements with us? 4. What role does encouragement play in your spiritual journey, and how can you be an encourager to others in your community? 5. How can we foster a spirit of collaboration and partnership in our efforts to share the Gospel and serve others? Connections to Other Scriptures Acts 19:29Aristarchus is mentioned as being seized during a riot in Ephesus, demonstrating his close association with Paul and his willingness to face danger for the Gospel. Acts 15:36-41This passage describes the disagreement between Paul and Barnabas over Mark, highlighting the theme of reconciliation as Mark is later commended by Paul. 2 Timothy 4:11Paul refers to Mark as useful to him in ministry, showing the restoration of their relationship and Mark's growth in his role. Philemon 1:23-24Aristarchus is listed among Paul's fellow workers, emphasizing the collaborative nature of early Christian ministry. People Archippus, Aristarchus, Barnabas, Christians, Colossians, Demas, Epaphras, Justus, Luke, Marcus, Mark, Onesimus, Paul, TychicusPlaces Colossae, Hierapolis, LaodiceaTopics Aristarchus, Aristar'chus, Barnabas, Barnabas's, Brother-prisoner, Commandments, Commands, Cousin, Fellow, Fellow-captive, Fellowprisoner, Fellow-prisoner, Greeting, Greetings, Greets, Instructions, Kind, Love, Marcus, Mark, Nephew, Orders, Prisoner, Receive, Received, Relation, Salute, Salutes, Saluteth, Sends, Sister's, Touching, WelcomeDictionary of Bible Themes Colossians 4:10 5461 prisoners
5673 cousins
7025 church, unity
8446 hospitality, duty of Colossians 4:7-14 5594 tribute Colossians 4:10-18 5328 greeting Library Without and Within
'Them that are without.'--COL. iv. 5. That is, of course, an expression for the non-Christian world; the outsiders who are beyond the pale of the Church. There was a very broad line of distinction between it and the surrounding world in the early Christian days, and the handful of Christians in a heathen country felt a great gulf between them and the society in which they lived. That distinction varies in form, and varies somewhat in apparent magnitude according as Christianity has been rooted in …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy ScriptureThirtieth Day for the Holy Spirit with the Word of God
WHAT TO PRAY.--For the Holy Spirit with the Word of God "Our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance."--1 THESS. i. 5. "Those who preached unto you the gospel with the Holy Ghost sent forth from heaven."--1 PET. i. 12. What numbers of Bibles are being circulated. What numbers of sermons on the Bible are being preached. What numbers of Bibles are being read in home and school. How little blessing when it comes "in word" only; what …
Andrew Murray—The Ministry of Intercession Marcus, My Son
'... So doth Marcus, my son.'--1 Peter v. 13. The outlines of Mark's life, so far as recorded in Scripture, are familiar. He was the son of Mary, a woman of some wealth and position, as is implied by the fact that her house was large enough to accommodate the 'many' who were gathered together to pray for Peter's release. He was a relative, probably a cousin (Col. iv. 10, Revised Version), of Barnabas, and possibly, like him, a native of Cyprus. The designation of him by Peter as 'my son' naturally …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Ephesians, Peter,John The Name Above Every Name
'Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.'--ACTS ii. 36. It is no part of my purpose at this time to consider the special circumstances under which these words were spoken, nor even to enter upon an exposition of their whole scope. I select them for one reason, the occurrence in them of the three names by which we designate our Saviour--Jesus, Lord, Christ. To us they are very little more than three proper …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture: The Acts Conflict and Comfort.
"For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts may be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ."--COL. ii. 1, 2. Although he was in prison the Apostle was constantly at work for his Master, and not least of all at the work of prayer. If ever the words …
W. H. Griffith Thomas—The Prayers of St. Paul Prayer and Fervency
"St. Teresa rose off her deathbed to finish her work. She inspected, with all her quickness of eye and love of order the whole of the house in which she had been carried to die. She saw everything put into its proper place, and every one answering to their proper order, after which she attended the divine offices of the day. She then went back to her bed, summoned her daughters around her . . . and, with the most penitential of David's penitential prayers upon her tongue, Teresa of Jesus went forth …
Edward M. Bounds—The Necessity of Prayer Twenty-Eighth Day that all God's People May Know the Holy Spirit
WHAT TO PRAY.--That all God's People may know the Holy Spirit "The Spirit of truth, whom the world knoweth not; but ye know Him; for He abideth with you, and shall be in you."--JOHN xiv. 17. "Know ye not that your body is a temple of the Holy Ghost?"--1 COR. vi. 19. The Holy Spirit is the power of God for the salvation of men. He only works as He dwells in the Church. He is given to enable believers to live wholly as God would have them live, in the full experience and witness of Him who saves …
Andrew Murray—The Ministry of Intercession Author's Introduction,
In Which the Sources of This History Are Principally Treated A history of the "Origin of Christianity" ought to embrace all the obscure, and, if one might so speak, subterranean periods which extend from the first beginnings of this religion up to the moment when its existence became a public fact, notorious and evident to the eyes of all. Such a history would consist of four books. The first, which I now present to the public, treats of the particular fact which has served as the starting-point …
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus We Shall not be Curious in the Ranking of the Duties in which Christian Love...
We shall not be curious in the ranking of the duties in which Christian love should exercise itself. All the commandments of the second table are but branches of it: they might be reduced all to the works of righteousness and of mercy. But truly these are interwoven through other. Though mercy uses to be restricted to the showing of compassion upon men in misery, yet there is a righteousness in that mercy, and there is mercy in the most part of the acts of righteousness, as in not judging rashly, …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning From John Yeardley's Conversion to the Commencement of his Public Ministry.
1803--1815. John Yeardley was born on the 3rd of the First Month, 1786, at a small farm-house beside Orgreave Hall, in the valley of the Rother, four miles south of Rotherham. His parents, Joel and Frances Yeardley, farmed some land, chiefly pasture, and his mother is said to have been famous for her cream-cheeses, which she carried herself to Sheffield market. She was a pious and industrious woman; but, through the misconduct of her husband, was sometimes reduced to such straits as scarcely to have …
John Yeardley—Memoir and Diary of John Yeardley, Minister of the Gospel "And Watch unto Prayer. "
1 Pet. iv. 7.--"And watch unto prayer." "Watch." A Christian should watch. A Christian is a watchman by office. This duty of watchfulness is frequently commanded and commended in scripture, Matt. xxiv. 42, Mark xiii. 33, 1 Cor. xvi. 13, Eph. vi. 18, 1 Pet. v. 8, Col. iv. 2; Luke xii. 37. David did wait as they that did watch for the morning light. The ministers of the gospel are styled watchmen in scripture and every Christian should be to himself as a minister is to his flock, he should watch over …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning Epistle xxxii. To Anastasius, Presbyter .
To Anastasius, Presbyter [1714] . Gregory to Anastasius, &c. That a good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth good things (Matth. xii. 35; Luke vi. 45), this thy Charity has shewn, both in thy habitual life and lately also in thy epistle; wherein I find two persons at issue with regard to virtues; that is to say, thyself contending for charity, and another for fear and humility. And, though occupied with many things, though ignorant of the Greek language, I have nevertheless sat …
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great Exhortations to Christians as they are Children of God
1 There is a bill of indictment against those who declare to the world they are not the children of God: all profane persons. These have damnation written upon their forehead. Scoffers at religion. It were blasphemy to call these the children of God. Will a true child jeer at his Father's picture? Drunkards, who drown reason and stupefy conscience. These declare their sin as Sodom. They are children indeed, but cursed children' (2 Peter 2:14). 2 Exhortation, which consists of two branches. (i) Let …
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12 Mental Prayer.
"Pray without ceasing."--1 Thess. v. 17. There are two modes of praying mentioned in Scripture; the one is prayer at set times and places, and in set forms; the other is what the text speaks of,--continual or habitual prayer. The former of these is what is commonly called prayer, whether it be public or private. The other kind of praying may also be called holding communion with God, or living in God's sight, and this may be done all through the day, wherever we are, and is commanded us as the …
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VII Meditations of the True Manner of Practising Piety on the Sabbath-Day.
Almighty God will have himself worshipped, not only in a private manner by private persons and families, but also in a more public sort, of all the godly joined together in a visible church; that by this means he may be known not only to be the God and Lord of every Singular person, but also of the creatures of the whole universal world. Question--But why do not we Christians under the New, keep the Sabbath on the same seventh day on which it was kept under the Old Testament? I answer--Because our …
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety How the Gospels came to be Written
[Illustration: (drop cap B) Early Christian Lamp] But how did the story of the Saviour's life on earth come to be written? We have seen that many years passed before any one thought of writing it down at all. The men and women who had really seen Him, who had listened to His voice, looked into His face, and who knew that He had conquered death and sin for evermore, could not sit down to write, for their hearts were all on fire to speak. But as the years passed, the number of those who had seen Christ …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making Of the Words Themselves in General.
We come now to the words themselves, wherein Christ asserts that he is, 1, "the way;" 2, "the truth;" 3, "the life;" and, 4, "that no man cometh to the Father but by him." In them we learn these two things in general. First, The misery of wretched man by nature. This cannot be in a few words expressed. These words will point out those particulars thereof, which we will but mention. 1. That he is born an enemy to, and living at a distance from God, by virtue of the curse of the broken covenant of …
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life Gen. xxxi. 11
Of no less importance and significance is the passage Gen. xxxi. 11 seq. According to ver. 11, the Angel of God, [Hebrew: mlaK halhiM] appears toJacob in a dream. In ver. 13, the same person calls himself the God of Bethel, with reference to the event recorded in chap. xxviii. 11-22. It cannot be supposed that in chap xxviii. the mediation of a common angel took place, who, however, had not been expressly mentioned; for Jehovah is there contrasted with the angels. In ver. 12, we read: "And behold …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament "Be Ye Therefore Sober, and Watch unto Prayer. "
1 Pet. iv. 7.--"Be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer." We now come to consider the coherence and connexion these duties have one to another. First, Prayer is the principal part of the Christian's employment, and sobriety and watchfulness are subordinate to it. "Be sober, and watch unto prayer." (1.) Prayer is such a tender thing that there is necessity of dieting the spirit unto it. That prayer may be in good health, a man must keep a diet and be sober, sobriety conduces so much to its …
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning The Parables Exemplified in the Early History of the Church.
"To Him shall prayer unceasing And daily vows ascend; His Kingdom still increasing, A Kingdom without end." We have seen that our Lord described in His Parables the general character and nature of "The Kingdom of Heaven." Consequently, if the Church established by the Apostles under the guidance of the Holy Ghost is "The Kingdom of Heaven," it will necessarily be found to agree with the description thus given. Let us therefore now consider how far the history of the Church, in the Acts of the Apostles …
Edward Burbidge—The Kingdom of Heaven; What is it? Links Colossians 4:10 NIVColossians 4:10 NLTColossians 4:10 ESVColossians 4:10 NASBColossians 4:10 KJV
Colossians 4:10 Commentaries
Bible Hub |
