Serving Together

Faithful to the End: A Reflection on Colossians 4:7–18

As Paul brings his letter to the Colossians to a close, he does not simply sign off with routine words. Instead, he gives us a clear and powerful look into the nature of Christian ministry, gospel partnerships, and perseverance. Colossians 4:7–18 reminds us that the work of the kingdom advances not only through sound doctrine but also through faithful relationships.

A Fellowship of Servants

Paul begins by commending Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful minister. Along with Onesimus, he would carry this letter to the Colossians. These men were not apostles, but they were trusted and proven servants of Christ. They worked behind the scenes, yet their roles were essential to the health of the church. This reminds us that in the sovereign purposes of God, there are no insignificant callings.

Onesimus, once a runaway slave, is now described as a faithful and beloved brother. His life had been radically changed by the gospel. This shows that the grace of God does not just clean up our image; it creates a new identity. In Christ, sinners are made saints, and social boundaries are replaced by spiritual unity.

Greetings from Fellow Laborers

Paul continues by naming fellow workers who send their greetings. Aristarchus, Mark, and Justus are all Jewish believers who stood by Paul during his imprisonment. They were a comfort to him. Their presence was not flashy or spectacular, but it was faithful. Often, gospel ministry is sustained by quiet loyalty and presence in the hardest moments.

Epaphras, who likely planted the church in Colossae, is described as one who is always struggling in prayer on behalf of the believers. His prayer life was not superficial. It was intense, persistent, and grounded in love for the church. He prayed not simply for their survival, but that they would stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. This is the heart of a true pastor.

Luke, the beloved physician, is mentioned as well. He was a close companion of Paul and the human author of the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts. His careful and detailed witness has served the church for centuries. Demas is also mentioned, but without praise. Later, in 2 Timothy 4:10, Paul says that Demas deserted him because he loved this present world. That change in testimony is a sober reminder that not everyone who walks with the church today will finish well tomorrow.

Final Instructions

Paul instructs that the letter be read aloud in the church, and also in Laodicea. He even mentions another letter sent to the Laodiceans, which has not been preserved for us. This shows the shared nature of apostolic teaching. Scripture was meant to be received, read, and obeyed by the whole church, not just individuals or private groups.

He then gives a specific command to Archippus: “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.” Ministry is not something we choose; it is something we receive. This call is from God and it must be carried out with faithfulness, regardless of recognition or ease.

Paul ends with a personal note: “I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains.” His imprisonment did not define him, but it did testify to the cost of following Christ. He bore suffering not as a victim but as a servant of Jesus, knowing that his chains were part of God’s providential plan.

What This Teaches Us

This closing section is not a list of names to skip over. It is Scripture, breathed out by God and useful for our instruction. These verses show us the beauty of gospel friendships, the importance of perseverance, and the value of ordinary faithfulness. Not everyone will be a Paul. But we can all be a Tychicus, an Epaphras, or a Luke. We can pray, encourage, deliver, and serve.

In a world that prizes visibility and influence, Colossians 4 invites us to value something far greater. Steadfast love for Christ. Commitment to His people. Willingness to suffer and serve without fanfare. The church moves forward through such faithfulness.

May we labor with the same heart. May we pray with the same urgency. And may we be found faithful, knowing our names are written in heaven where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.

Grace be with you.

We always encourage everyone to check everything through the lens of the Scriptures. Be like the noble Bereans of Paul’s day. Please visit us at here for much more, and remember, Jesus Christ is Lord.  When we stand with the Lord, we are never outnumbered, never outdone and never forsaken by our Mighty Savior!  We hope to see you next week dear friends.  We also want to give a special thanks to our brothers and sisters up from Daytona, Florida as they came to serve the Lord in teaching the kids at VBS this week!  May the Lord continue to bless your time here and give you a grand testimony of His wonderful work!

And with that our beloved family, until we meet again...lets go serve our King!

FRF Family