This salutation by my own hand—Paul. Remember my chains. Grace be with you. Amen. Colossians 4:18
This is the final verse of Colossians. The book has spanned four chapters totaling 95 verses. To close out this masterpiece of wisdom and instruction, Paul begins with, “This salutation by my own hand – Paul.” The letter was probably written by an amanuensis (one who takes dictation), but then Paul signed the letter to confirm that it was from him.… Read the rest
And say to Archippus, “Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.” Colossians 4:17
Paul’s words here are taken by many scholars as a rebuke of Archippus which are intended to urge him back to a proper fulfillment of his duties.… Read the rest
Now when this epistle is read among you, see that it is read also in the church of the Laodiceans, and that you likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. Colossians 4:16
Paul’s words of this verse show that it was meant that his letters be read openly, and thus they are intended as church doctrine.… Read the rest
Greet the brethren who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas and the church that is in his house. Colossians 4:15
What seems like a simple and easy to understand verse is actually a bit complicated. First, Paul says to “Greet the brethren who are in Laodicea.” In verse 16, he will say, “also in the church of the Laodiceans.” It is argued by some then that this is a special body of Christians which are being referred to here.… Read the rest
Luke the beloved physician and Demas greet you. Colossians 4:14
As noted in verse 4:11, from this verse it becomes obvious (like the sun shining at midday) that Luke is not a Jew, but a Gentile. The earlier verses gave a list of names which were followed by the words, “These are my only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who are of the circumcision.” This means “Jews.” As Luke is now named, it verifies that he was, in fact, a Gentile.… Read the rest
