Colossians 4:11

KJV

And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only [are my] fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} Jesus {G2424}, which {G3588} is called {G3004} Justus {G2459}, who {G3588} are {G5607} of {G1537} the circumcision {G4061}. These {G3778} only {G3441} are my fellowworkers {G4904} unto {G1519} the kingdom {G932} of God {G2316}, which {G3748} have been {G1096} a comfort {G3931} unto me {G3427}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yeshua, the one called Justus, also sends greetings. These three are among the Circumcised; and among my fellow workers for the Kingdom of God, only they have turned out to be a comfort to me.

Berean Standard Bible

Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends greetings. These are the only Jews among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me.

American Standard Version

and Jesus that is called Justus, who are of the circumcision: these only are my fellow-workers unto the kingdom of God, men that have been a comfort unto me.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Colossians 4:11 offers a poignant insight into the Apostle Paul's support network during his imprisonment, specifically highlighting Jesus, who is called Justus, as one of the few Jewish believers who remained steadfastly committed to his ministry. This verse underscores the invaluable comfort and collaborative effort these individuals provided, affirming their vital role as fellow workers in the advancement of God's kingdom amidst challenging circumstances.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Colossians 4:11 is situated within the concluding remarks of Paul's letter to the church at Colossae, specifically within a section (Colossians 4:7-18) where he sends personal greetings and updates from his companions. Following his instructions on Christian living and prayer, Paul transitions to a series of commendations and greetings, introducing various individuals who are with him. This verse immediately follows the mention of Aristarchus and Mark in [Colossians 4:10](/colossians/4-10 "Colossians 4:10 - Greetings from Fellow Prisoners"), clarifying that Jesus Justus, along with them, represents the entirety of his Jewish "fellowworkers" who were a source of comfort. This particularity emphasizes the unique and perhaps unexpected nature of their loyalty.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote Colossians likely while under house arrest in Rome (implied by references to his "bonds" in [Colossians 4:18](/colossians/4-18 "Colossians 4:18 - Paul's Final Salutation")). During this period, Paul relied heavily on a network of faithful companions who assisted him in various aspects of ministry, including delivering letters, providing updates, and offering personal support. The mention of "Jesus, which is called Justus" reflects the common practice among Jews in the Roman Empire of having both a Hebrew name (Jesus, a variant of Joshua) and a Roman cognomen (Justus, meaning "just" or "righteous"). The phrase "who are of the circumcision" explicitly identifies these individuals as Jewish Christians, a significant detail given the ongoing tensions and distinctions between Jewish and Gentile believers in the early church, as often addressed in Paul's epistles (e.g., [Galatians 2:7-9](/galatians/2-7-9 "Galatians 2:7-9 - Paul's Apostleship to Gentiles")).
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Colossians and Paul's broader theology. It highlights the theme of **Christian fellowship and mutual support**, demonstrating the practical outworking of the unity of the body of Christ (cf. [Colossians 3:12-14](/colossians/3-12-14 "Colossians 3:12-14 - Put on Love")). The emphasis on "fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God" underscores the **collaborative nature of ministry** and the shared mission of advancing God's reign, a concept central to both Jesus's teachings (e.g., [Matthew 6:33](/matthew/6-33 "Matthew 6:33 - Seek First the Kingdom")) and Paul's apostolic endeavors. Furthermore, Paul's vulnerability in acknowledging their "comfort" reveals the **humanity of the apostle** and the profound need for encouragement amidst suffering and hardship, a recurring motif in his letters (e.g., [2 Corinthians 1:3-7](/2_corinthians/1-3-7 "2 Corinthians 1:3-7 - God of All Comfort")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **fellowworkers (Greek, _synergós'_):** Derived from a compound of `σύν` (syn, "with") and the base of `ἔργον` (ergon, "work"), this term denotes a co-laborer or coadjutor. It emphasizes active participation and partnership in a shared task. In this context, it signifies individuals who are not merely passive supporters but active collaborators with Paul in the work of the gospel and the expansion of God's kingdom.
* **kingdom (Greek, _basileía'_):** Properly meaning "royalty," this term abstractly refers to rule or dominion, and concretely to a realm. Here, "kingdom of God" signifies God's sovereign rule and the spiritual realm over which He reigns, which is progressively being established on earth through the gospel. These fellowworkers were instrumental in advancing this divine reign.
* **comfort (Greek, _parēgoría'_):** From a compound of `παρά` (para, "alongside") and a derivative of `ἀγορά` (agora, "assembly," implying public address), this word specifically means solace, alleviation, or encouragement. It speaks to the emotional, spiritual, and perhaps even physical relief and support provided to Paul during his trying circumstances, offering him consolation and strength.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision."**: This clause introduces a specific individual, Jesus (a common Hebrew name, distinct from Jesus Christ), who is also known by his Roman name, Justus. The phrase "who are of the circumcision" explicitly identifies him (and implicitly, the others mentioned in [Colossians 4:10](/colossians/4-10 "Colossians 4:10 - Greetings from Fellow Prisoners") if read as a collective reference to the Jewish believers) as Jewish Christians, highlighting their ethnic background within the early church.
* **"These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God,"**: This is a significant and rather stark statement. The word "only" (Greek, _mónos'_) emphasizes that among Paul's Jewish companions, only these few individuals (Jesus Justus, along with Mark and Aristarchus from the preceding verse) were actively and consistently engaged with him in the work of advancing God's kingdom. This suggests a unique level of commitment and faithfulness from them, perhaps in contrast to other Jewish believers who may have been less supportive or even opposed to Paul's ministry.
* **"which have been a comfort unto me."**: This deeply personal declaration reveals the profound impact these individuals had on Paul. The "comfort" (Greek, _parēgoría'_) they provided was not merely superficial but a genuine source of solace and encouragement, crucial for Paul's perseverance while imprisoned. It speaks to the emotional and spiritual sustenance that sustained him in his apostolic labors and personal trials.

#### Literary Devices
Colossians 4:11 employs several literary devices. The most prominent is **Emphasis**, particularly through the use of the word "only" (`mónos`). This word highlights the singular and exceptional loyalty of Jesus Justus (and implicitly, Mark and Aristarchus) among Paul's Jewish associates, underscoring their unique contribution and steadfastness. There is also a strong element of **Personal Tone** and **Pathos** as Paul expresses his deep appreciation for the "comfort" these individuals provided. This brief, direct statement reveals Paul's vulnerability and humanity, allowing the reader to glimpse the emotional toll of his imprisonment and the vital role of faithful companionship. Finally, the phrase "fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God" serves as a **Metonymy**, where "kingdom of God" stands for the entire mission and purpose of God's redemptive plan, emphasizing the collaborative nature of advancing His divine reign on earth.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Colossians 4:11 powerfully illustrates the theological truth that God's work is often accomplished through the collaborative efforts of His people, and that even the most prominent figures in ministry depend on the faithful support of others. It underscores the importance of mutual encouragement and steadfast partnership within the body of Christ, particularly during times of adversity. The "comfort" provided to Paul by these "fellowworkers" is a tangible expression of Christian love and solidarity, demonstrating how believers are called to bear one another's burdens and strengthen each other in the pursuit of God's kingdom. This verse reminds us that true spiritual labor is not a solitary endeavor but a shared journey, where every contribution, no matter how seemingly small, is invaluable to the advancement of God's purposes.

* [Philippians 4:3](/philippians/4-3 "Philippians 4:3 - Fellow Workers in the Gospel")
* [1 Corinthians 3:9](/1_corinthians/3-9 "1 Corinthians 3:9 - God's Fellow Workers")
* [2 Corinthians 7:6](/2_corinthians/7-6 "2 Corinthians 7:6 - God Comforts the Downcast")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Colossians 4:11 serves as a profound reminder of the indispensable value of faithful companionship and mutual support in the Christian life, particularly for those engaged in demanding ministry or facing personal trials. Paul, despite his apostolic authority and spiritual strength, openly acknowledges his need for "comfort," demonstrating that even the most resilient among us require the solace and encouragement of fellow believers. This challenges us to actively seek opportunities to be sources of comfort and support to others, recognizing that our steadfastness can significantly impact their ability to persevere in their calling. It also encourages us to cultivate a spirit of gratitude for those who stand by us, appreciating their often unsung contributions to our spiritual journey and the advancement of God's kingdom. Ultimately, the verse calls us to embrace our role as "fellowworkers," understanding that the work of God is a collaborative enterprise where every member of the body of Christ plays a vital, supportive role.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Who are the "fellowworkers" in your life who have provided you with comfort and support during challenging times? How have you expressed your gratitude to them?**
* **In what ways can you more intentionally be a source of "comfort" and encouragement to others in your community, especially those in ministry or facing hardship?**
* **How does recognizing your own need for support, like Paul did, strengthen your understanding of Christian community and interdependence?**
* **What does it mean for you to be a "fellowworker unto the kingdom of God" in your daily life, and how can you actively contribute to its advancement?**

### FAQ

**Why does Paul emphasize "These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God"?**
Answer: Paul's emphasis on "These only" (referring to Jesus Justus, along with Mark and Aristarchus from [Colossians 4:10](/colossians/4-10 "Colossians 4:10 - Greetings from Fellow Prisoners")) highlights the unique and perhaps limited number of Jewish believers who were consistently and actively supportive of his ministry during his imprisonment. While Paul was known as the Apostle to the Gentiles, he still worked with Jewish Christians. This statement suggests that among his Jewish associates, only these few remained steadfast and collaborative in advancing the gospel, possibly contrasting them with others who may have wavered in their support or even opposed Paul's inclusive message. It underscores their exceptional loyalty and commitment.

**What does "comfort" (parēgoría) imply in this context?**
Answer: The Greek word `parēgoría` (G3931) signifies solace, alleviation, or encouragement. In [Colossians 4:11](/colossians/4-11 "Colossians 4:11 - Jesus Justus, Paul's Fellowworker"), it implies a deep, personal support that went beyond mere companionship. For Paul, who was imprisoned and facing immense pressure and suffering, this comfort likely encompassed emotional, spiritual, and possibly practical relief. It speaks to the profound encouragement and strength these individuals provided, helping him to endure his trials and continue his ministry, even from behind bars.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Colossians 4:11, while seemingly a simple greeting, points to a profound Christ-centered truth: the collaborative nature of God's kingdom work and the divine provision of comfort through human instruments. Just as Paul relied on "fellowworkers" like Jesus Justus, so too did Christ Himself engage and empower His disciples as co-laborers in establishing the kingdom of God (cf. [Matthew 10:1](/matthew/10-1 "Matthew 10:1 - Jesus Sends Out the Twelve")). Jesus, the ultimate source of comfort, promised His followers the Holy Spirit, the "Comforter" or "Advocate," who would be with them always (cf. [John 14:16](/john/14-16 "John 14:16 - The Promise of the Holy Spirit")). This verse beautifully illustrates how Christ's comfort is often mediated through the tangible support and steadfast presence of His body, the Church. The loyalty and solace provided by Jesus Justus and others to Paul prefigure the ongoing work of Christ through His people, who are called to be extensions of His comforting presence in a broken world (cf. [2 Corinthians 1:3-4](/2_corinthians/1-3-4 "2 Corinthians 1:3-4 - God of All Comfort")). Ultimately, the "kingdom of God" that these individuals worked for is the very reign inaugurated by Christ's life, death, and resurrection, a kingdom into which all believers are called to participate as His redeemed and empowered agents (cf. [Colossians 1:13](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13 - Delivered from Darkness into His Kingdom")).

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 11:2

And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him,

Philemon 1:1

¶ Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy [our] brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer,

Acts 10:45

And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Titus 1:10

For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision:

2 Corinthians 6:1

¶ We then, [as] workers together [with him], beseech [you] also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.

Romans 4:12

And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which [he had] being [yet] uncircumcised.

Colossians 4:7

¶ All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, [who is] a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord: