Colossians 4:12
Verse
Context
Greetings from Paul’s Fellow Workers
11Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends greetings. These are the only Jews among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me.12Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, so that you may stand mature and fully assured in the full will of God.13For I testify about him that he goes to great pains for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Epaphras, who is one of you - A native of some part of Phrygia, and probably of Colosse itself. A servant of Christ - A minister of the Gospel. Labouring fervently for you - Αγωνιζομενος· Agonizing; very properly expressed by our translators, labouring fervently. That ye may stand perfect and complete - Ἱνα στητε τελειοι και πεπληρμενοι. That ye may stand firm, perfectly instructed, and fully persuaded of the truth of those doctrines which have been taught you as the revealed will of God: this I believe to be the meaning of the apostle. Instead of πεπληρωμενοι, complete or filled up, almost all the MSS. of the Alexandrian rescension, which are considered the most authentic and correct, have πεπληροφορημενοι, that ye may be fully persuaded. The word πληροφορια signifies such a complete persuasion of the certainty of a thing, as leaves the mind which has it neither room nor inclination to doubt; and πληροφορεω, the verb, has the same meaning, viz., to be thus persuaded, or to persuade thus, by demonstrative argumentation and exhibition of unquestionable facts. This is such a persuasion as the Spirit of God, by means of the Gospel, gives to every sincere and faithful man; and from which arises the solid happiness of the genuine Christian. They who argue against it, prove, at least, that they have not got it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Christ--The oldest manuscripts add "Jesus." labouring fervently--As the Greek, is the same, translate, "striving earnestly" (see on Col 1:29 and Col 2:1), literally, "striving as in the agony of a contest." in prayers--Translate as Greek, "in his prayers." complete--The oldest manuscripts read, "fully assured." It is translated, "fully persuaded," Rom 4:21; Rom 14:5. In the expression "perfect," he refers to what he has already said, Col 1:28; Col 2:2; Col 3:14. "Perfect" implies the attainment of the full maturity of a Christian. BENGEL joins "in all the will of God" with "stand."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Epaphras, who is one of you,.... A native of Colosse, and one of their faithful ministers; see Col 1:7. A servant of Christ; not merely in the same sense as every believer is, but as he was a preacher of the Gospel, in which he faithfully served his Lord and master, Christ: saluteth you; sends his Christian respects to you, for whom he bore a sincere love and hearty affection, as appears by what follows: always labouring fervently for you in prayers; in all his prayers, which were many and frequent, he never forgot his dear flock at Colosse, of which he was pastor, but strove with God for them, even to an agony, as the word signifies; he wrestled with the Lord as Jacob did, nor, as he, would he let him go without a blessing for this church; he was incessant, importunate, and fervent in prayer for them: and what he prayed in particular for them was, that ye may stand perfect; in Christ Jesus their head, and in his spotless righteousness; see Col 1:28 and continue believing in him, and looking to him for righteousness and strength, in whom all the fulness, the perfection of grace dwells; and where the saints only are, and can continue to be perfect: and complete in all the will of God; or "be filled" in it, have a perfect knowledge of the revealed will of God, both as to doctrine and practice, and be enabled to act according to it.
Colossians 4:12
Greetings from Paul’s Fellow Workers
11Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends greetings. These are the only Jews among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me.12Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, so that you may stand mature and fully assured in the full will of God.13For I testify about him that he goes to great pains for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Lesser Known Characters 03 Epaphras-Man of Prayer
By Joseph Balsan40453:52RUT 2:4PSA 119:111CO 1:10EPH 4:2COL 3:23COL 4:121TH 5:28In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of standing in one's place and being committed to prayer. He uses the story of Gideon and his army to illustrate this point. Gideon's men stood in their places, holding their trumpets, torches, and broken pitchers, and when they followed Gideon's signal, the enemy was routed. The speaker also shares the example of George Miller, a man of great faith who relied on prayer to provide for the needs of thousands of people. He concludes by highlighting the significance of prayer as a vital and powerful act of service to God.
The Saints Ruling in the Millennial Kingdom, Part 2
By Mike Bickle191:12:33Millennial KingdomFaithfulness and RewardsDAN 7:27MAT 11:28MAT 19:261CO 3:142CO 4:182CO 5:10COL 4:12HEB 9:271JN 2:28REV 20:4Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of the Millennial Kingdom, where saints will rule alongside Christ, highlighting that this theme is prevalent throughout the Bible yet often overlooked. He stresses the practical implications of understanding our current struggles in relation to our future roles in God's Kingdom, urging believers to strive for faithfulness in their lives. Bickle warns that not all believers will be rewarded equally, as only those deemed faithful will hold positions of authority in the Millennial reign. He encourages self-examination and repentance to avoid regret at the judgment seat of Christ, where our works will be evaluated. Ultimately, he calls for a life dedicated to pleasing God, as this will determine our eternal rewards.
Prevailing Prayer
By Peter Brandon1329:02Spiritual WarfarePrevailing PrayerMAT 26:39LUK 3:21LUK 4:1LUK 6:12LUK 23:34JHN 17:1ACT 1:14ACT 2:42EPH 6:18COL 4:12Peter Brandon emphasizes the significance of prevailing prayer, drawing from Colossians 4:12, where Epaphras is described as fervently laboring in prayer for the believers. He illustrates how Jesus exemplified a life of prayer, from His baptism to His crucifixion, and how the early church was marked by steadfast prayer, leading to divine blessings and spiritual victories. Brandon encourages believers to adopt a consistent and fervent prayer life, likening it to a marathon runner striving for the finish line, and highlights the need for prayer warriors who combat spiritual challenges. He concludes by urging the church to seek a deeper understanding of prayer, as it is through prevailing prayer that God's will is accomplished and blessings flow.
Day 170, Colossians 4
By David Servant0MAT 28:19ROM 16:3COL 3:16COL 4:3COL 4:12David Servant emphasizes the importance of letting the word of Christ dwell richly within us, teaching and admonishing one another with songs that are full of Jesus' words. He highlights the early church's focus on the Gospels and the significance of praying for open doors to share the mystery of Christ. Paul's mention of Epaphras as a man of prayer and the faithful brother Onesimus serve as examples of praying for the advancement of God's kingdom. The mention of Nympha having a church in her house underscores the value of small churches in making disciples.
Holiness: What It Is Not, and What It Is
By Samuel Logan Brengle0Trials and TemptationsUnderstanding HolinessJOB 2:10PSA 34:19ISA 53:3ROM 11:161CO 10:122CO 12:9COL 4:12HEB 4:15JAS 1:21PE 1:16Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes that holiness is often misunderstood; it is not a constant state of joy, freedom from temptation, infirmities, or afflictions. Instead, holiness is characterized by a pure heart and a deep relationship with God, allowing for growth and development even amidst trials. He illustrates that even holy figures like Jesus and Paul faced temptations and suffering, yet their holiness was defined by their love, patience, and perseverance through difficulties. Brengle concludes that true holiness is a state of conformity to God's nature, achieved through faith and the work of the Holy Spirit, leading to a life of peace and joy despite life's challenges.
Prayer and Fervency
By E.M. Bounds0Spiritual PassionFervent PrayerPSA 42:1ROM 15:30COL 4:12JAS 5:16E.M. Bounds emphasizes the necessity of fervency in prayer, arguing that without it, prayer is lifeless and ineffective. He illustrates that true prayer must be filled with heart, soul, and passion, drawing on examples from the Apostle Paul and the Psalms to demonstrate the power of earnest supplication. Bounds warns against the coldness of spirit that can hinder prayer, asserting that fervent prayer is essential for reaching God and receiving His blessings. He encourages believers to cultivate a fervent spirit, as it is the key to effective communication with God and the fulfillment of their desires. Ultimately, Bounds calls for a passionate pursuit of God through prayer, highlighting that fervency is rooted in the heart and is vital for a vibrant faith.
God's Plan for Your Life
By Zac Poonen0ObedienceGod's WillGEN 5:22MAT 7:21MAT 12:50JHN 4:34EPH 2:10EPH 5:17COL 1:9COL 4:121PE 4:11JN 2:17Zac Poonen emphasizes that the greatest honor for believers is to do the will of God, as taught by Jesus and echoed by the apostles. He highlights that God has a specific plan for each individual, and it is crucial to seek His guidance in all aspects of life to avoid missing His perfect will. Poonen encourages believers to walk in obedience, using examples from scripture such as David, Enoch, and the Israelites to illustrate the importance of aligning with God's will. He warns against the dangers of self-will and urges a commitment to live under the yoke of Christ, which leads to true freedom and fulfillment. Ultimately, he calls for a life lived with purpose, responsibility, and a deep desire to fulfill God's calling.
The Testimony of the Blood (Continued)
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Power of the BloodSpiritual VictoryEXO 4:23LUK 10:19JHN 14:30ROM 12:1COL 4:12T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of the Blood of Jesus as a living testimony that terrifies Satan, highlighting that true victory and spiritual prosperity stem from understanding and appreciating this divine sacrifice. He illustrates how the 'sons of Israel' in Egypt represent both dignity and the adversary's attempts to bring them into bondage, paralleling this with the spiritual struggles faced by believers today. The sermon underscores that the Blood is the instrument of both sonship and sovereignty, essential for overcoming the various forms of bondage that hinder spiritual growth. Sparks calls for a deeper recognition of the Blood's power, which not only secures our relationship with God but also equips us for effective spiritual service. Ultimately, he asserts that faith in Christ and His Blood is the key to achieving victory over the enemy and living in the fullness of God's intended prosperity.
The Devil's Opposition to Prayer
By F.J. Perryman0DAN 10:12LUK 18:1ROM 15:30EPH 6:10EPH 6:18COL 4:2COL 4:12HEB 5:7JAS 5:161PE 4:7F.J. Perryman preaches about the challenges and importance of prayer, emphasizing the spiritual battle that occurs when we engage in prayer. The difficulty in praying can be attributed to the opposition of the Devil, who hinders and opposes effective prayer. The Scriptures highlight the necessity of fervent, persevering, and fervent prayer, indicating a dire urgency and the need for undaunted courage in prayer. Prayer is a powerful tool in administering the victory of Calvary, but it requires vigilance, cooperation with God, and a deep understanding of the spiritual warfare involved.
Lovingly Truthful
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 5:48ACT 6:1ACT 9:311CO 2:6EPH 4:13PHP 3:15COL 4:12HEB 5:14JAS 1:4Andrew Bonar preaches about Epaphras' fervent prayers for the Colossian believers to stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. Epaphras, despite being a prisoner, devoted himself to prayer, laboring fervently and consistently for the spiritual growth and maturity of the Colossians. His main focus was on believers attaining moral maturity, fulfilling God's purpose for their lives, and standing blameless before Him. Epaphras understood the importance of believers being fully assured and persuaded in the will of God, knowing that this assurance leads to spiritual growth, maturity, and the ability to make right decisions in life.
Ever Living to Make Intercession
By G.W. North0IntercessionChristlikenessPSA 122:6LUK 22:32ROM 8:34EPH 6:18COL 4:121TH 5:171TI 2:1HEB 7:25JAS 5:161JN 2:1G.W. North emphasizes the vital role of intercession in the life of a believer, asserting that it is a reflection of Christ's own ministry as He 'ever liveth to make intercession' for us. He explains that intercession is not only for personal blessing but also for the benefit of others, and it is a mark of spiritual maturity and conformity to Christ's image. North highlights that true intercession stems from a heart filled with love and holiness, which prepares individuals to engage in this sacred ministry. He urges believers to recognize the importance of intercession in fulfilling God's purpose and to embody the love of Christ in their prayers for others. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper commitment to this spiritual practice, which is essential for the manifestation of God's kingdom on earth.
Assurance
By J.C. Ryle0MAT 6:10MAT 7:21JHN 7:17ACT 13:22COL 4:121TH 4:3HEB 13:212PE 1:21REV 4:11The preacher delves into the meaning of 'thelema,' emphasizing that it signifies God's gracious disposition towards something, His heart's desire, and His good pleasure. Thelema conveys the idea of desire and emotion, reflecting God's will as His heart's desire rather than just intention. The sermon explores how doing God's will involves yielding to His designs, praying for His will, and understanding and obeying His will revealed in Scripture. It also highlights the importance of God's sovereignty in fulfilling His purpose, even in difficult circumstances.
The Consent of the Will.
By Watchman Nee0The Will of GodSpiritual ControlLUK 12:47ROM 12:11CO 14:32PHP 2:13COL 2:23COL 4:122PE 3:5REV 22:17Watchman Nee emphasizes the critical role of the will in the relationship between God and humanity, asserting that both God and Satan require our consent to act in our lives. He explains that while the unsaved may be enslaved by Satan, they still possess the ability to choose, and it is essential for individuals to align their will with God's for divine empowerment. Nee warns against the dangers of a passive will, which can lead to being driven by external forces rather than guided by God's spirit. He illustrates the importance of maintaining control over one's spirit through the will, likening it to a kite string that keeps the kite steady. Ultimately, he encourages believers to actively seek and do God's will, following the example of Jesus.
Prayer and Devotion United
By E.M. Bounds0DevotionPrayerPSA 51:10MAT 6:6ROM 12:1EPH 3:19PHP 4:6COL 4:121TH 5:171TI 2:1HEB 4:16JAS 5:16E.M. Bounds emphasizes the critical need for spiritual influence in ministry, highlighting that true power comes from a deep devotion to God through prayer. He argues that modern ministers must embody saintliness and fervent prayer to effectively combat the world's challenges and to inspire their congregations. Bounds asserts that prayer and devotion are inseparable, serving as the lifeblood of a preacher's ministry, which should be solely focused on glorifying God. He warns against superficial piety and stresses that genuine devotion is essential for impactful preaching. Ultimately, Bounds calls for a revival of earnest prayer to cultivate holiness and Christlikeness in the church.
Our Daily Homily - Colossians
By F.B. Meyer0Christ In UsThe Power of PrayerCOL 1:27COL 2:6COL 3:15COL 4:12F.B. Meyer emphasizes the profound mystery of Christ dwelling within believers, likening it to a mother recognizing her long-lost son, which brings joy and the promise of shared riches. He encourages Christians to live in the awareness of this divine presence, drawing on Christ's fullness to meet daily needs and cultivate holiness through openness to Him. Meyer also highlights the importance of God's peace in our hearts, urging believers to guard against unconfessed sin, worry, and selfishness, allowing peace to arbitrate their decisions. He concludes with a call to fervent prayer for others, illustrating the unseen labor that supports the work of God in the world.
The Cross and the Tongue
By Jessie Penn-Lewis0Spiritual MaturityThe Power of WordsJER 15:19JHN 18:372CO 2:4EPH 4:14PHP 3:15PHP 3:18COL 1:28COL 4:12JAS 3:22PE 2:1Jessie Penn-Lewis emphasizes the critical relationship between our words and our spiritual maturity, particularly in the context of speaking about those who oppose the Cross of Christ. She highlights that true identification with Christ is reflected in our ability to control our speech, as stumbling in words reveals immaturity. The sermon calls for believers to speak the truth in love, especially when addressing the enemies of the Cross, and to maintain a spirit of compassion and weeping for those who have strayed. Penn-Lewis warns that our power in prayer and spiritual authority is compromised when we engage in unloving speech, urging believers to remain hidden in Christ to avoid the strife of tongues. Ultimately, she encourages a life that bears witness to the truth of God, ensuring our words are life-giving and aligned with His will.
Embracing God's Glorious Will
By David Wilkerson0Embracing God's WillJoy in ObediencePSA 37:4JER 29:11JHN 5:30JHN 6:38ROM 12:2EPH 2:10PHP 2:13COL 4:121TH 5:16HEB 13:21David Wilkerson emphasizes that true followers of Christ often misunderstand God's will as a burdensome obligation rather than a glorious opportunity. He encourages believers to embrace God's will with joy, as it is meant for all, not just the spiritually elite. Wilkerson highlights that knowing and accepting God's perfect will leads to fulfillment and joy, as exemplified by the early apostles and Jesus himself, who always sought to do the Father's will. By embracing God's will, believers can experience a deeper relationship with Jesus and witness His presence in their lives. Ultimately, God's will is a source of hope and completeness for every believer.
Prayer Marks Spiritual Leadership
By E.M. Bounds0PrayerSpiritual LeadershipMAT 21:22LUK 18:1JHN 15:7ACT 6:4EPH 3:14PHP 4:6COL 4:121TH 5:171TI 2:1JAS 5:16E.M. Bounds emphasizes the critical role of prayer in spiritual leadership, asserting that true preachers must fear nothing but sin and desire nothing but God to effectively advance the kingdom of heaven. He highlights the apostles' commitment to prayer, which they prioritized over other duties to ensure their ministry was powerful and impactful. Bounds argues that a prayerless ministry leads to spiritual stagnation and that the fervent prayers of leaders are essential for the growth and purity of the Church. He calls for preachers to dedicate themselves to intercession, not just for salvation but for the fullness of God in their congregations. Ultimately, he believes that a revival of prayer among leaders will usher in a new era of spiritual prosperity.
The Intercessory Prayers of Christians
By T.M. Anderson0LUK 11:5JHN 15:262CO 3:5COL 4:121TH 1:8T.M. Anderson preaches on the ministry of prayer and preaching, emphasizing the integral role they play in the plan of salvation. Through the teachings of Jesus, it is revealed that praying and preaching are ways of communication between God and man, appealing to each other's will. The Epistles highlight the power of intercessory prayer, showing how fervent prayers can lead believers to stand perfect in God's will. The responsibility to pray for others is crucial, as seen in the parable of the man seeking three loaves for a weary traveler, symbolizing our duty to intercede for those lost in the darkness of sin.
(Finding God's Will) 1. God's Plan for Your Life
By Zac Poonen0Guidance in Life DecisionsGod's WillGEN 5:22MAT 7:21MAT 11:28MAT 12:50EPH 2:10EPH 5:17COL 1:9COL 4:121PE 4:11JN 2:17Zac Poonen emphasizes that the greatest honor for believers is to do God's will, as taught by Jesus and the apostles. He warns against the folly of pursuing our own paths without seeking God's guidance, especially when making significant life decisions. Poonen highlights that many miss God's perfect will due to disobedience and compromise, urging believers to earnestly seek God's plan for their lives. He illustrates this with biblical examples, including David and the Israelites, and encourages a life dedicated to fulfilling God's will. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to walk in God's appointed path, assuring that it leads to true fulfillment and purpose.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Epaphras, who is one of you - A native of some part of Phrygia, and probably of Colosse itself. A servant of Christ - A minister of the Gospel. Labouring fervently for you - Αγωνιζομενος· Agonizing; very properly expressed by our translators, labouring fervently. That ye may stand perfect and complete - Ἱνα στητε τελειοι και πεπληρμενοι. That ye may stand firm, perfectly instructed, and fully persuaded of the truth of those doctrines which have been taught you as the revealed will of God: this I believe to be the meaning of the apostle. Instead of πεπληρωμενοι, complete or filled up, almost all the MSS. of the Alexandrian rescension, which are considered the most authentic and correct, have πεπληροφορημενοι, that ye may be fully persuaded. The word πληροφορια signifies such a complete persuasion of the certainty of a thing, as leaves the mind which has it neither room nor inclination to doubt; and πληροφορεω, the verb, has the same meaning, viz., to be thus persuaded, or to persuade thus, by demonstrative argumentation and exhibition of unquestionable facts. This is such a persuasion as the Spirit of God, by means of the Gospel, gives to every sincere and faithful man; and from which arises the solid happiness of the genuine Christian. They who argue against it, prove, at least, that they have not got it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Christ--The oldest manuscripts add "Jesus." labouring fervently--As the Greek, is the same, translate, "striving earnestly" (see on Col 1:29 and Col 2:1), literally, "striving as in the agony of a contest." in prayers--Translate as Greek, "in his prayers." complete--The oldest manuscripts read, "fully assured." It is translated, "fully persuaded," Rom 4:21; Rom 14:5. In the expression "perfect," he refers to what he has already said, Col 1:28; Col 2:2; Col 3:14. "Perfect" implies the attainment of the full maturity of a Christian. BENGEL joins "in all the will of God" with "stand."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Epaphras, who is one of you,.... A native of Colosse, and one of their faithful ministers; see Col 1:7. A servant of Christ; not merely in the same sense as every believer is, but as he was a preacher of the Gospel, in which he faithfully served his Lord and master, Christ: saluteth you; sends his Christian respects to you, for whom he bore a sincere love and hearty affection, as appears by what follows: always labouring fervently for you in prayers; in all his prayers, which were many and frequent, he never forgot his dear flock at Colosse, of which he was pastor, but strove with God for them, even to an agony, as the word signifies; he wrestled with the Lord as Jacob did, nor, as he, would he let him go without a blessing for this church; he was incessant, importunate, and fervent in prayer for them: and what he prayed in particular for them was, that ye may stand perfect; in Christ Jesus their head, and in his spotless righteousness; see Col 1:28 and continue believing in him, and looking to him for righteousness and strength, in whom all the fulness, the perfection of grace dwells; and where the saints only are, and can continue to be perfect: and complete in all the will of God; or "be filled" in it, have a perfect knowledge of the revealed will of God, both as to doctrine and practice, and be enabled to act according to it.