Colossians 4:13

For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them [that are] in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis.

For {G1063} I bear {G3140} him {G846} record {G3140}, that {G3754} he hath {G2192} a great {G4183} zeal {G2205} for {G5228} you {G5216}, and {G2532} them that are in {G1722} Laodicea {G2993}, and {G2532} them in {G1722} Hierapolis {G2404}.

For I can testify to him that he works hard for you and for those in Laodicea and Hierapolis.

For I testify about him that he goes to great pains for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis.

For I bear him witness, that he hath much labor for you, and for them in Laodicea, and for them in Hierapolis.

In Colossians 4:13, the Apostle Paul offers a heartfelt commendation for Epaphras, a faithful minister and fellow servant of Christ. Paul testifies to Epaphras's profound and unwavering dedication not only to the believers in Colossae (to whom the letter is addressed) but also to those in the neighboring cities of Laodicea and Hierapolis.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's concluding remarks in his letter to the Colossians, where he sends greetings from his companions and offers various exhortations. Epaphras, mentioned in the preceding verse (Colossians 4:12), is identified as "one of you, a servant of Christ," who was "always labouring fervently for you in prayers." This context clarifies that Epaphras's "great zeal" is primarily expressed through his earnest intercession. Paul, likely writing from imprisonment, emphasizes the genuine concern of his co-workers, providing comfort and encouragement to the Colossian church.

Laodicea and Hierapolis were economically important cities in the Lycus Valley, closely situated to Colossae. The mention of all three cities highlights the interconnectedness of early Christian communities in this region. The church in Laodicea is particularly notable for being addressed in the Book of Revelation.

Key Themes

  • Fervent Devotion and Zeal: The verse powerfully portrays Epaphras's intense spiritual energy and commitment. His "great zeal" indicates a deep, passionate concern for the spiritual well-being of these congregations.
  • Intercessory Prayer: As clarified in Colossians 4:12, Epaphras's zeal manifested most prominently in his consistent, fervent prayers for the believers, demonstrating that true spiritual care often involves persistent intercession.
  • Pastoral Care Across Communities: Epaphras's concern extended beyond a single local church, encompassing multiple congregations in the region. This illustrates a broad, selfless commitment to the wider body of Christ.
  • Commendation and Affirmation: Paul's public record of Epaphras's devotion serves as an example of affirming and appreciating the faithful service of others within the Christian community.

Linguistic Insight

The Greek word for "zeal" is zēlos (ζῆλος). While it can sometimes denote negative jealousy, in this context, it signifies an intense, fervent earnestness and devotion. It implies a strong, positive passion and eagerness for the welfare of others, particularly in their spiritual growth and stability.

Practical Application

Colossians 4:13 encourages believers today to cultivate a similar spirit of genuine concern and intercessory prayer for fellow Christians, both within their immediate community and for the wider body of Christ. It reminds us that:

  • True love is active: Epaphras's zeal wasn't passive but expressed through diligent effort and prayer.
  • Intercession is powerful: Our prayers for others are a vital form of spiritual service, just as Epaphras's were.
  • Affirmation matters: Like Paul, we should be quick to acknowledge and encourage those who faithfully serve God's people.
  • Our concern should be broad: While focusing on our local church, we are also called to care for the needs of believers in other places, recognizing the global unity of the church.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Colossians 2:1

    ¶ For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and [for] them at Laodicea, and [for] as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;

  • Romans 10:2

    For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.

  • Revelation 3:14

    And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;

  • Revelation 3:18

    I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and [that] the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:3

    For to [their] power, I bear record, yea, and beyond [their] power [they were] willing of themselves;

  • Revelation 1:11

    Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send [it] unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.

  • Colossians 4:15

    Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house.

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