Colossians 4:3
Verse
Context
Sermons
Richard E. Bieber
Isaac ErrettGardiner Spring
E.M. Bounds
David Servant
J.C. PhilpotSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Praying also for us - Let the success and spread of the Gospel be ever dear to you; and neglect not to pray fervently to God that it may have free course, run, and be glorified. A door of utterance - Θυραν του λογου· The word θυρα, which commonly signifies a door, or such like entrance into a house or passage through a wall, is often used metaphorically for an entrance to any business, occasion or opportunity to commence or perform any particular work. So in Act 14:27 : The Door of faith is opened to the Gentiles; i.e. there is now an opportunity of preaching the Gospel to the nations of the earth. Co1 16:9 : A great and effectual Door is opened unto me; i.e. I have now a glorious opportunity of preaching the truth to the people of Ephesus. Co2 2:12 : When I came to Troas - a Door was opened unto me; I had a fine opportunity of preaching Christ crucified at that place. So, here, the θυρατου λογου, which we translate door of utterance, signifies an occasion, opportunity, or entrance, for the doctrine of the Gospel. The same metaphor is used by the best Latin writers. Cicero, xiii. Ep. 10: Amiciliae fores aperiuntur; the Doors of friendship are opened - there is now an opportunity of reconciliation. And Ovid, Amor. lib. iii., Eleg. xii. ver. 12: - Janua per nostras est adaperta manus. "The gate is opened by our hands." Of this use of the word among the Greek writers Schleusner gives several examples. See also Rev 3:8, where the word is used in the same sense. To multiply examples would be needless; the apostle excites them to pray, not that a door of utterance, i.e. a readiness and fluency of speech, may be given to him and his fellow laborers, but that they may have an opportunity of preaching the doctrine of Christ; and so the term λογος is to be understood here, as well as in many other places of the New Testament, in most of which we have either lost or obscured its meaning by translating it word instead of doctrine. The mystery of Christ - The Gospel, which had been hidden from all former times, and which revealed that purpose long hidden in the Divine councils, that the Gentiles should be called to enjoy the same privileges with the Jews. For which I am also in bonds - He was suffering under Jewish malice, and for preaching this very mystery; for they could not bear to hear announced, as from heaven, that the Gentiles, whom they considered eternally shut out from any participation of the Divine favor, should be made fellow heirs with them of the grace of life; much less could they bear to hear that they were about to be reprobated, and the Gentiles elected in their place. It was for asserting these things that they persecuted Paul at Jerusalem, so that to save his life he was obliged to appeal to Caesar; and being taken to Rome, he was detained a prisoner till his case was fully heard; and he was a prisoner at Rome on this very account when he wrote this Epistle to the Colossians. See the note on Col 1:24.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
for us--myself and Timothy (Col 1:1). a door of utterance--Translate, "a door for the word." Not as in Eph 6:19, where power of "utterance" is his petition. Here it is an opportunity for preaching the word, which would be best afforded by his release from prison (Co1 16:9; Co2 2:12; Plm 1:22; Rev 3:8). to speak--so that we may speak. the mystery of Christ-- (Col 1:27). for which . . . also--on account of which I am (not only "an ambassador," Eph 6:20, but) ALSO in bonds.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Withal, praying also for us,.... The persons to be prayed for are next directed to; and these are not only themselves, though their concern is very near and great, but others also, all the saints and people of God, yea, all men, and in particular the ministers of the Gospel. The apostle desires they would pray for him, and his fellow ministers, and which he says not in dissimulation, under a guise of humility, but in true humility and lowliness of mind; being sensible of the greatness of the ministerial work, which this shows, and of his own imperfection and weakness, and of what advantage the prayers, even of the meanest in the church, might be unto him: and this shows, that it is the duty of churches, and of particular believers, to pray for their ministers, and, among the rest, as follows, that God would open to us a door of utterance; or "of the word"; so the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, Arabic; and Ethiopic versions; meaning, either the word of the Gospel, that the door of that might be opened, that it might have a free course, and be glorified; for though he was bound, that was not; nor does he desire that the door of the prison might be opened, but the door of the word; that there might be an opportunity of preaching it; in which sense this phrase is used, Co1 16:9 that whereas he could not go abroad to preach it, the hearts of men might be inclined to come to him, and hear it from his mouth; and that the door of their hearts might be opened, that they might attend unto it; that it might have an entrance into them, and a place in them: or else the door of his own speech and words is intended, and the sense be, that God would not only set before him an open door for the preaching of the Gospel, and make it effectual for the conversion of many souls; but that, as he would furnish him with all abilities, and every gift for that service, so that with enlargement of heart, and liberty of mind, he would give him elocution, a mouth and wisdom to speak, utterance and freedom of speech; that the door of the Gospel being opened, or an opportunity given to preach it, and the door of men's hearts opened to receive it, the door, of his lips might be also opened to show forth the praise of the grace of God. The Alexandrian copy adds, "with boldness", or "boldly", as in Eph 6:19 to speak the mystery of Christ; the Gospel, of which Christ is the author, preacher, sum, and substance; the whole of which is a mystery; the wisdom of God in a mystery; all the doctrines of it are mysteries; and particularly those, and which are here more especially designed, which regard the person, offices, and grace of Christ, as the mystery of his divine and eternal sonship, of his incarnation, of the union of the two natures, divine and human, in his person, of redemption by his blood, justification by his righteousness, and satisfaction by his sacrifice, things dear to the apostle, and which his soul was full of, and he wanted to speak out; and therefore desires prayer, to be made for him, that a door might be opened, and way made for his speaking of these things with freedom: for which, says he, I am also in bonds; this he adds, partly to show how dear the Gospel was to him, that he was willing to suffer, and did suffer cheerfully for the sake of it; and what an honour he esteemed it to lie in chains for it, of which, nor of that, was he in the least ashamed; and partly to stir them up the more to prayer for him, for his liberty in every respect.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:3 that God will give us many opportunities (literally that God might open for us a door): An open door is a metaphor for an opportunity to proclaim the Good News (see also Acts 14:27; 1 Cor 16:9; 2 Cor 2:12). • his mysterious plan concerning Christ: See Col 1:26-27; 2:2. • That is why I am here in chains: Paul’s dedication to preaching the Good News had led to his imprisonment (see Colossians Book Introduction, “Date and Occasion of Writing”).
Colossians 4:3
Prayerful Speech and Actions
2Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful,3as you pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.4Pray that I may declare it clearly, as I should.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Intercession
By Richard E. Bieber0PSA 67:5MAT 18:18LUK 22:31JHN 17:20ROM 8:26ROM 8:33EPH 1:16EPH 6:18PHP 1:3COL 4:3HEB 7:25Richard E. Bieber emphasizes the importance of intercession in our ministry, highlighting that our true calling and ministry began the moment we started walking with Jesus. He stresses that our primary ministry is hidden before the eyes of God, consisting of service to God in worship and service to man in intercession. Bieber urges believers to prioritize intercession, as it is the foundation upon which all other outward ministries rest, drawing examples from Jesus' prayer life and the apostle Paul's relentless intercession for others.
Opportunity and Opposition
By Isaac Errett0PRO 16:9MAT 6:33ACT 14:271CO 16:92CO 2:12PHP 2:13COL 4:3JAS 4:13REV 3:7Isaac Errett preaches about the great and effectual doors that God opens for preaching the gospel, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities to share the Word. He highlights the providential openings granted by God for success in spreading the gospel, stressing the need for divine providence and human agency to work together. Errett discusses the significant opposition faced in the form of Roman Catholicism, rationalism, and the secular spirit of the age, which hinders missionary efforts. He calls for a revival of prayer, humility, and devotion to God's will to overcome selfishness and indifference in advancing the kingdom of God.
A Plea to Pray for Pastors
By Gardiner Spring0PSA 102:17ROM 15:301CO 9:27EPH 5:16COL 4:31TH 5:252TH 3:1HEB 13:18JAS 5:16Gardiner Spring emphasizes the vital role of prayer in shaping and supporting ministers of the Gospel. He highlights the need for congregations to fervently pray for their ministers, as their prayers can empower and uplift them to effectively carry out their divine calling amidst the challenges and temptations they face. Spring underscores the importance of ministers being upheld by the prayers of their people, as neglecting this duty can lead to spiritual declension and ineffectiveness in ministry. He urges believers to engage in a concert of prayer for ministers, recognizing the significant impact of consistent intercession on the spiritual well-being and effectiveness of those who proclaim God's truth.
Unction, the Mark of True Gospel Preaching
By E.M. Bounds0Power of PreachingDivine UnctionACT 1:8ROM 10:141CO 2:42CO 5:20EPH 6:19COL 4:31TH 1:52TI 4:2HEB 4:12JAS 5:16E.M. Bounds emphasizes the significance of 'unction' in true gospel preaching, describing it as a divine quality that transcends mere human effort and eloquence. He asserts that unction is what makes preaching powerful and effective, piercing the hearts of listeners and distinguishing true preachers from those who rely solely on earnestness or intellect. Bounds highlights that this unction is a gift from God, cultivated through prayer and spiritual devotion, and is essential for conveying the transformative message of the Gospel. He warns against confusing earnestness with unction, as the former can lack the divine presence that brings true conviction and change. Ultimately, Bounds calls for preachers to seek this heavenly endowment to fulfill their calling effectively.
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.
Rev. 3:8. the Church's Little Strength, and the Lord's Great Love
By Horatius Bonar0Strength in WeaknessChrist's LoveISA 32:2ISA 40:11ISA 42:7ISA 43:3ISA 46:1ISA 63:9ISA 66:132CO 2:12COL 4:3REV 3:8Horatius Bonar emphasizes the tender love and gracious character of Christ as depicted in Revelation 3:8, where He acknowledges the Church's little strength while offering an open door of opportunity and service. Bonar highlights Christ's patience and gentleness, encouraging believers to rely on His compassion during their struggles and weaknesses. He reassures that even in their feebleness, their faithfulness in keeping His word and not denying His name is honored by God. The sermon illustrates how Christ's love is a source of comfort and strength for those who feel overwhelmed and in need of support. Bonar's message is a reminder of the open door to salvation and service that Christ provides, regardless of our limitations.
The Call and Qualifications for the Ministry
By J.C. Philpot0DEU 32:2EPH 6:19COL 4:31TI 3:6TIT 1:9J.C. Philpot delves into the importance of a divine call and necessary qualifications for the Gospel ministry. He emphasizes that a true call to the ministry involves a deep inward witness from God, a great backwardness to the work, strong leadings in providence, and a willingness to endure suffering and sacrifice. Philpot also discusses the need for grace and gifts as qualifications for the ministry, highlighting the essential experience of the things of God, a clear understanding and defense of truth, and a continual flow of divine life to give power to one's gift.
The Supreme Vocation (Daniel 10:1-21)
By T. Austin-Sparks0Vocational LoveHeaven-Affecting PrayerEZK 14:14DAN 9:2DAN 10:1ROM 14:171CO 4:20EPH 6:10COL 4:31TH 2:18T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound significance of God's declaration to Daniel, 'O man greatly beloved,' illustrating that this vocational love transcends mere redeeming love, highlighting Daniel's unique relationship with God's purpose. He discusses the importance of spiritual intelligence and understanding God's intentions, which empower effective prayer that influences both Heaven and Earth. Sparks argues that true prayer must be rooted in a deep comprehension of God's purpose and the current spiritual state, urging believers to separate from worldly principles and personal interests to align with God's will. He concludes that Daniel's persistent and abandoned prayer life serves as a model for believers today, calling them to engage deeply with God's eternal purpose.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Praying also for us - Let the success and spread of the Gospel be ever dear to you; and neglect not to pray fervently to God that it may have free course, run, and be glorified. A door of utterance - Θυραν του λογου· The word θυρα, which commonly signifies a door, or such like entrance into a house or passage through a wall, is often used metaphorically for an entrance to any business, occasion or opportunity to commence or perform any particular work. So in Act 14:27 : The Door of faith is opened to the Gentiles; i.e. there is now an opportunity of preaching the Gospel to the nations of the earth. Co1 16:9 : A great and effectual Door is opened unto me; i.e. I have now a glorious opportunity of preaching the truth to the people of Ephesus. Co2 2:12 : When I came to Troas - a Door was opened unto me; I had a fine opportunity of preaching Christ crucified at that place. So, here, the θυρατου λογου, which we translate door of utterance, signifies an occasion, opportunity, or entrance, for the doctrine of the Gospel. The same metaphor is used by the best Latin writers. Cicero, xiii. Ep. 10: Amiciliae fores aperiuntur; the Doors of friendship are opened - there is now an opportunity of reconciliation. And Ovid, Amor. lib. iii., Eleg. xii. ver. 12: - Janua per nostras est adaperta manus. "The gate is opened by our hands." Of this use of the word among the Greek writers Schleusner gives several examples. See also Rev 3:8, where the word is used in the same sense. To multiply examples would be needless; the apostle excites them to pray, not that a door of utterance, i.e. a readiness and fluency of speech, may be given to him and his fellow laborers, but that they may have an opportunity of preaching the doctrine of Christ; and so the term λογος is to be understood here, as well as in many other places of the New Testament, in most of which we have either lost or obscured its meaning by translating it word instead of doctrine. The mystery of Christ - The Gospel, which had been hidden from all former times, and which revealed that purpose long hidden in the Divine councils, that the Gentiles should be called to enjoy the same privileges with the Jews. For which I am also in bonds - He was suffering under Jewish malice, and for preaching this very mystery; for they could not bear to hear announced, as from heaven, that the Gentiles, whom they considered eternally shut out from any participation of the Divine favor, should be made fellow heirs with them of the grace of life; much less could they bear to hear that they were about to be reprobated, and the Gentiles elected in their place. It was for asserting these things that they persecuted Paul at Jerusalem, so that to save his life he was obliged to appeal to Caesar; and being taken to Rome, he was detained a prisoner till his case was fully heard; and he was a prisoner at Rome on this very account when he wrote this Epistle to the Colossians. See the note on Col 1:24.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
for us--myself and Timothy (Col 1:1). a door of utterance--Translate, "a door for the word." Not as in Eph 6:19, where power of "utterance" is his petition. Here it is an opportunity for preaching the word, which would be best afforded by his release from prison (Co1 16:9; Co2 2:12; Plm 1:22; Rev 3:8). to speak--so that we may speak. the mystery of Christ-- (Col 1:27). for which . . . also--on account of which I am (not only "an ambassador," Eph 6:20, but) ALSO in bonds.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Withal, praying also for us,.... The persons to be prayed for are next directed to; and these are not only themselves, though their concern is very near and great, but others also, all the saints and people of God, yea, all men, and in particular the ministers of the Gospel. The apostle desires they would pray for him, and his fellow ministers, and which he says not in dissimulation, under a guise of humility, but in true humility and lowliness of mind; being sensible of the greatness of the ministerial work, which this shows, and of his own imperfection and weakness, and of what advantage the prayers, even of the meanest in the church, might be unto him: and this shows, that it is the duty of churches, and of particular believers, to pray for their ministers, and, among the rest, as follows, that God would open to us a door of utterance; or "of the word"; so the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, Arabic; and Ethiopic versions; meaning, either the word of the Gospel, that the door of that might be opened, that it might have a free course, and be glorified; for though he was bound, that was not; nor does he desire that the door of the prison might be opened, but the door of the word; that there might be an opportunity of preaching it; in which sense this phrase is used, Co1 16:9 that whereas he could not go abroad to preach it, the hearts of men might be inclined to come to him, and hear it from his mouth; and that the door of their hearts might be opened, that they might attend unto it; that it might have an entrance into them, and a place in them: or else the door of his own speech and words is intended, and the sense be, that God would not only set before him an open door for the preaching of the Gospel, and make it effectual for the conversion of many souls; but that, as he would furnish him with all abilities, and every gift for that service, so that with enlargement of heart, and liberty of mind, he would give him elocution, a mouth and wisdom to speak, utterance and freedom of speech; that the door of the Gospel being opened, or an opportunity given to preach it, and the door of men's hearts opened to receive it, the door, of his lips might be also opened to show forth the praise of the grace of God. The Alexandrian copy adds, "with boldness", or "boldly", as in Eph 6:19 to speak the mystery of Christ; the Gospel, of which Christ is the author, preacher, sum, and substance; the whole of which is a mystery; the wisdom of God in a mystery; all the doctrines of it are mysteries; and particularly those, and which are here more especially designed, which regard the person, offices, and grace of Christ, as the mystery of his divine and eternal sonship, of his incarnation, of the union of the two natures, divine and human, in his person, of redemption by his blood, justification by his righteousness, and satisfaction by his sacrifice, things dear to the apostle, and which his soul was full of, and he wanted to speak out; and therefore desires prayer, to be made for him, that a door might be opened, and way made for his speaking of these things with freedom: for which, says he, I am also in bonds; this he adds, partly to show how dear the Gospel was to him, that he was willing to suffer, and did suffer cheerfully for the sake of it; and what an honour he esteemed it to lie in chains for it, of which, nor of that, was he in the least ashamed; and partly to stir them up the more to prayer for him, for his liberty in every respect.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:3 that God will give us many opportunities (literally that God might open for us a door): An open door is a metaphor for an opportunity to proclaim the Good News (see also Acts 14:27; 1 Cor 16:9; 2 Cor 2:12). • his mysterious plan concerning Christ: See Col 1:26-27; 2:2. • That is why I am here in chains: Paul’s dedication to preaching the Good News had led to his imprisonment (see Colossians Book Introduction, “Date and Occasion of Writing”).