Colossians 4:10

KJV

Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)

KJV (with Strong's)

Aristarchus {G708} my {G3450} fellowprisoner {G4869} saluteth {G782} you {G5209}, and {G2532} Marcus {G3138}, sister's son {G431} to Barnabas {G921},(touching {G4012} whom {G3739} ye received {G2983} commandments {G1785}: if {G1437} he come {G2064} unto {G4314} you {G5209}, receive {G1209} him {G846};)

Complete Jewish Bible

Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, sends greetings, as does Mark, Bar-Nabba’s cousin, concerning whom you have received instructions — if he comes to you, welcome him.

Berean Standard Bible

My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you greetings, as does Mark the cousin of Barnabas. You have already received instructions about him: If he comes to you, welcome him.

American Standard Version

Aristarchus my fellow-prisoner saluteth you, and Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (touching whom ye received commandments; if he come unto you, receive him),

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Colossians 4:10 conveys greetings from two of Paul's companions, Aristarchus and Marcus (John Mark), offering a personal glimpse into the apostle's network during his imprisonment. The verse specifically identifies Aristarchus as a "fellowprisoner" and provides crucial instructions regarding John Mark, Barnabas's cousin, emphasizing the need for the Colossian believers to warmly receive him, thereby highlighting themes of Christian fellowship, reconciliation, and hospitality within the early church.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the concluding remarks of Paul's Epistle to the Colossians, specifically in the section where he sends personal greetings and final exhortations (Colossians 4:7-18). Following his theological exposition on Christ's supremacy and the believer's new life in Him, Paul transitions to practical matters, including updates on his circumstances and the state of his companions. These personal greetings serve to authenticate the letter, reinforce the bonds of Christian fellowship, and provide practical instructions for the Colossian church. The inclusion of specific individuals like Aristarchus and Mark, along with instructions for their reception, underscores the relational and communal nature of early Christian ministry and the importance of mutual support among believers.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul likely penned the Epistle to the Colossians during his first Roman imprisonment (circa A.D. 60-62), a period during which he also wrote Ephesians, Philippians, and Philemon. Being a prisoner, Paul relied heavily on trusted companions to carry his letters, convey messages, and continue the work of the Gospel. The mention of a "fellowprisoner" like Aristarchus highlights the dangers and shared suffering faced by early Christians, particularly apostles and their associates, for their faith. The directive to "receive him" concerning John Mark reflects the common practice of hospitality in the ancient world, which was especially vital for itinerant missionaries and church leaders. Providing lodging, food, and a warm welcome was a practical expression of Christian love and support, enabling the spread of the Gospel.
* **Key Themes:** Colossians 4:10 contributes to several overarching themes within the Epistle to the Colossians and Paul's broader theology. It reinforces the theme of **Christian Unity and Fellowship**, demonstrating how believers, regardless of their past, are united in Christ and called to mutual support, even in suffering. The specific mention of John Mark, a figure with a complicated past relationship with Paul (as seen in [Acts 13:13](/acts/13-13 "Acts 13:13 - John Mark's Departure") and [Acts 15:39](/acts/15-39 "Acts 15:39 - The Dispute Between Paul and Barnabas")), powerfully illustrates the theme of **Reconciliation and Second Chances** within the body of Christ. Paul's instruction to "receive him" underscores the practical outworking of the new life in Christ, which should be characterized by forgiveness and acceptance, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel that is central to [Colossians 3](/colossians/3 "Colossians 3 - The New Life in Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **fellowprisoner (Greek, _synaichmálōtos'_):** Derived from `σύν` (together with) and `αἰχμάλωτος` (a captive of war), this term literally means "a co-captive" or "one captured with." While it could signify actual shared imprisonment with Paul, it often carries the broader connotation of a deep bond of suffering and partnership in the Gospel, indicating someone who shares in the hardships and dangers of Paul's mission, reflecting a shared fate or mission that brings adversity.
* **commandments (Greek, _entolḗ'_):** From `ἐντέλλομαι` (to enjoin), this word refers to an "injunction" or "authoritative prescription." In this context, it denotes specific instructions or directives that the Colossians had previously received concerning John Mark, implying a clear and binding expectation for their conduct towards him.
* **receive (Greek, _déchomai'_):** This verb, in the middle voice of a primary verb, means "to receive" in various applications, literally or figuratively. It implies acceptance, welcoming, or taking in. In the imperative mood here, it is a strong command for the Colossians to warmly welcome and accept John Mark, suggesting the need to overcome any potential lingering doubts or past impressions regarding him.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you,"**: This clause introduces Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica (Acts 27:2), who is identified by Paul as a "fellowprisoner." This designation highlights his close association with Paul, sharing in his suffering or literal imprisonment for the sake of the Gospel. His greeting conveys a personal connection and solidarity with the Colossian church.
* **"and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas,"**: This introduces John Mark, famous for his association with Barnabas and Peter (Acts 12:12, 1 Peter 5:13), and now revealed as Barnabas's cousin. His inclusion in Paul's greetings signifies a significant development in his relationship with Paul, given their previous disagreement.
* **"(touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)"**: This parenthetical statement provides crucial instructions regarding John Mark. The Colossians had apparently received prior "commandments" or directives about him, perhaps concerning his ministry or a previous visit. The imperative "receive him" is a clear, unequivocal command for the Colossians to welcome him warmly, indicating Paul's full endorsement and trust in Mark, and perhaps preempting any hesitation on the part of the Colossians due to his past.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Allusion** to John Mark's past, subtly referencing the previous "commandments" without explicitly detailing the history of his departure from Paul's first missionary journey. This implies that the Colossian readers were already familiar with the circumstances surrounding Mark. The use of **Parenthesis** for the instructions regarding Mark ("touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;") sets apart this crucial directive, giving it emphasis and ensuring the Colossians understand the specific action required of them. Furthermore, the term "fellowprisoner" functions as a form of **Metonymy**, where the shared condition of imprisonment or suffering stands for the deep bond of solidarity and partnership in the Gospel between Paul and Aristarchus.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Colossians 4:10 profoundly illustrates the transformative power of the Gospel in fostering reconciliation and demonstrating grace within the Christian community. The inclusion of John Mark, once a source of "sharp contention" between Paul and Barnabas, now commended by Paul himself, serves as a powerful testament to the reality of second chances and the importance of restoring those who have stumbled. This reflects a core theological truth: just as God extends grace and reconciliation to humanity through Christ, believers are called to extend that same grace to one another, overcoming past grievances for the sake of unity and the advancement of the Kingdom. The verse also underscores the practical outworking of Christian love through hospitality and mutual support, essential for the flourishing of the early church and a timeless principle for believers today.

* [Acts 15:36-40](/acts/15-36-40 "Acts 15:36-40 - The Dispute Over John Mark")
* [2 Timothy 4:11](/2_timothy/4-11 "2 Timothy 4:11 - Paul's Later Commendation of Mark")
* [Philemon 1:17](/philemon/1-17 "Philemon 1:17 - Receive Him As Myself")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Colossians 4:10 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers regarding the nature of Christian relationships and the practice of grace. The example of John Mark's restoration reminds us that past failures do not define a person's future in God's service. We are challenged to cultivate a spirit of forgiveness and acceptance, offering second chances to those who have stumbled, just as Christ has extended boundless grace to us. This verse also highlights the enduring value of Christian fellowship, particularly in times of adversity. The bond between Paul and Aristarchus, sharing in suffering for the Gospel, calls us to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters, bearing one another's burdens and offering support. Finally, the directive to "receive him" underscores the vital importance of hospitality within the church, reminding us to welcome and affirm those who serve Christ, fostering an environment of unity, love, and mutual encouragement that strengthens the body of Christ and enables its mission.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the story of John Mark's restoration challenge my own willingness to offer forgiveness and second chances to others?**
* **In what ways can I better practice Christian hospitality and acceptance within my local church or community?**
* **What does Aristarchus's role as a "fellowprisoner" teach me about the importance of solidarity and support among believers, especially during difficult times?**

### FAQ

**Who was Aristarchus and what does "fellowprisoner" mean in this context?**

Answer: Aristarchus was a Macedonian from Thessalonica, a loyal companion of Paul mentioned several times in the New Testament (e.g., [Acts 19:29](/acts/19-29 "Acts 19:29 - Aristarchus in Ephesus"), [Acts 20:4](/acts/20-4 "Acts 20:4 - Aristarchus with Paul in Asia"), [Acts 27:2](/acts/27-2 "Acts 27:2 - Aristarchus on the Voyage to Rome")). The term "fellowprisoner" (Greek: _synaichmálōtos_) can mean he was literally imprisoned alongside Paul, perhaps sharing his cell or being under house arrest with him, as was the case with Paul in Rome. Alternatively, it can signify a deeper bond of shared suffering and hardship for the sake of the Gospel, indicating that he was so committed to Paul's mission that he endured similar dangers and afflictions, effectively becoming a "captive" with Paul in the spiritual battle. Both interpretations highlight his deep loyalty and commitment to Paul and the spread of Christianity.

**Why did Paul give specific instructions to "receive" John Mark?**

Answer: Paul's explicit instruction to "receive him" concerning John Mark is significant due to their complicated past. John Mark had famously departed from Paul and Barnabas during their first missionary journey in Pamphylia ([Acts 13:13](/acts/13-13 "Acts 13:13 - John Mark's Departure from Paul")). This led to a "sharp contention" between Paul and Barnabas when Barnabas wanted to take Mark on a subsequent journey, resulting in their separation ([Acts 15:36-40](/acts/15-36-40 "Acts 15:36-40 - The Dispute Over John Mark")). By commanding the Colossians to "receive him," Paul is publicly affirming Mark's restoration to his trust and ministry, signaling that any past reservations should be set aside. This directive ensures Mark's warm welcome and acceptance, allowing him to continue serving the Lord without prejudice. Later, Paul even commends Mark as "profitable to me for the ministry" in [2 Timothy 4:11](/2_timothy/4-11 "2 Timothy 4:11 - Paul's Commendation of Mark").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Colossians 4:10, with its powerful themes of reconciliation, second chances, and Christian hospitality, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The restoration of John Mark to Paul's trust, despite his past failure, perfectly mirrors the boundless grace and forgiveness that Christ extends to all who come to Him. Just as Mark was welcomed back into ministry, so too does Christ welcome sinners into His family, offering a new beginning and a renewed purpose, embodying the truth that "if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new" ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")). Moreover, the call for the Colossians to "receive him" echoes Christ's own radical hospitality, who welcomed outcasts, sinners, and those rejected by society, demonstrating that true love and acceptance are foundational to the Kingdom of God ([Luke 15:1-2](/luke/15-1-2 "Luke 15:1-2 - Jesus Welcomes Sinners")). The fellowship in suffering exemplified by Aristarchus and Paul also points to Christ, who Himself endured the ultimate suffering for humanity's redemption ([Isaiah 53:3-5](/isaiah/53-3-5 "Isaiah 53:3-5 - The Suffering Servant")), inviting believers to share in His sufferings for the sake of the Gospel ([Philippians 3:10](/phillipians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")). Thus, Colossians 4:10 is not merely a historical footnote but a living illustration of the transformative and unifying power of the Gospel, all rooted in the reconciling work of Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 19:29

And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre.

2 Timothy 4:11

Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.

Philemon 1:24

Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.

Acts 12:12

And when he had considered [the thing], he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.

Acts 20:4

And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.

Acts 27:2

And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; [one] Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us.

Acts 15:37

And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark.