Colossians 1:7 – “You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf,”
Extended Explanation
Paul reminds the Colossian believers that they learned the gospel from Epaphras. This tells us that Paul himself did not plant the church in Colossae-someone else did. Epaphras was the one who first preached to them, explaining the good news of Jesus.
Paul calls Epaphras a “dear fellow servant”, which shows that he saw him as a close co-worker in ministry. The term “servant” (Greek: doulos) means a bondservant or slave-someone fully devoted to serving Christ. This shows Epaphras’ humility and dedication.
Paul also calls Epaphras a “faithful minister of Christ”. The word “minister” (Greek: diakonos) means one who serves. Epaphras was not seeking power or recognition; he was a faithful servant of Jesus, working on behalf of Paul and others to spread the gospel.
Historical Context
Epaphras was a believer from Colossae who had likely heard the gospel from Paul during one of his missionary journeys (perhaps in Ephesus, Acts 19:9-10). He then brought the message back to Colossae and helped establish the church there.
At this time, Paul was writing from prison (probably in Rome), and Epaphras had traveled to visit him. Epaphras brought Paul news of the Colossian church-both good (their strong faith) and concerning (the false teachings that were creeping in).
False teachers in Colossae were trying to mix Christianity with human traditions, Jewish legalism, and mystical beliefs. Paul’s letter is meant to remind the Colossians that the true gospel they learned from Epaphras is enough-they don’t need additional teachings or religious rules.
Theological Implications
- The gospel is passed from one person to another. The Colossians learned about Christ from Epaphras, showing that faith spreads through faithful preaching and discipleship (Romans 10:14-15).
- Servants of Christ must be faithful. Paul praises Epaphras for being a “faithful minister.” True ministry is not about seeking attention but about faithfully serving Jesus and others (1 Corinthians 4:2).
- Believers should honor those who teach them. Paul acknowledges Epaphras’ role in teaching and serving the church, showing that those who faithfully teach God’s Word should be appreciated (Hebrews 13:7).
Literary Analysis
- “You learned it from Epaphras” – This emphasizes the importance of faithful teachers in spreading the gospel. The Colossians didn’t come to faith on their own; someone taught them.
- “Dear fellow servant” – Paul uses affectionate language to show his deep respect and appreciation for Epaphras.
- “Faithful minister of Christ” – The word “minister” (Greek: diakonos) means one who serves. Paul is highlighting Epaphras’ faithfulness, not his status or position.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Romans 10:14-15 – “How can they hear without someone preaching to them?” (The gospel is spread through faithful teachers.)
- 1 Corinthians 4:2 – “Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” (Ministers of Christ must be faithful.)
- Hebrews 13:7 – “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you.” (Believers should honor those who teach them.)
- 2 Timothy 2:2 – “Entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” (Faithful ministry involves training others to continue the work.)
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
- We all need faithful teachers. The Colossians did not figure out the gospel on their own. They learned it from Epaphras, showing that Christian growth happens through faithful teaching.
- Faithfulness is more important than fame. Epaphras is not a well-known biblical figure, but Paul honors him for being faithful. Today, too many people seek fame in ministry instead of simply serving Christ.
- We should appreciate those who teach us. If you have pastors, teachers, or mentors who help you grow in faith, this verse reminds you to be thankful for them and to pray for them.
- Every believer has a role in spreading the gospel. Epaphras was not an apostle, but he still played a key role in advancing God’s kingdom. Every Christian can serve God by teaching and encouraging others.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
- God uses people to spread His truth. He doesn’t leave us to figure things out alone-He provides faithful teachers and mentors to help us grow in our faith.
- God values faithfulness. Epaphras was not a famous apostle, but God honored him because he was faithful. This shows that God cares more about obedience than reputation.
- God cares about the church. Paul’s encouragement to the Colossians shows that God provides leaders who teach and guide His people because He loves them.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
- Jesus is the message Epaphras preached. He didn’t bring his own ideas-he brought the truth about Jesus, just as Paul did (2 Corinthians 4:5).
- Jesus calls His followers to be faithful servants. Epaphras is a model of what Jesus taught: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43).
- Jesus Himself was the ultimate faithful servant. Paul calls Epaphras a servant, which reflects Christ’s own example of humility and service (Philippians 2:7-8).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Who are the faithful teachers and mentors in your life? Have you taken time to thank God for them?
- Are you being faithful with what God has entrusted to you, like Epaphras was?
- How can you be involved in passing on the gospel to others?
- Do you value faithfulness in ministry more than popularity or recognition?
- How does knowing that God uses ordinary people like Epaphras encourage you to serve Him?
Paul’s words in Colossians 1:7 remind us that faithfulness is what matters most in serving Christ. Epaphras may not be famous, but he was faithful, and that made all the difference. Whether we are teaching, serving, or simply encouraging others in their faith, God calls us to be faithful ministers of Christ, just like Epaphras.