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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Colossians 4:7–18. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
In the close of this epistle the apostle does several of his friends the honour to leave their names upon record, with some testimony of his respect, which will be spoken of wherever the gospel comes, and last to the end of the world.
I.Concerning Tychicus, Col 4:7.
By him this epistle was sent; and he does not give them an account in writing of his present state, because Tychicus would do it by word of mouth more fully and particularly. He knew they would be glad to hear how it fared with him. The churches cannot but be concerned for good ministers and desirous to know their state. He gives him this character, A beloved brother and faithful minister. Paul, though a great apostle, owns a faithful minister for a brother and a beloved brother. Faithfulness in any one is truly lovely, and renders him worthy our affection and esteem. And a fellow-servant in the Lord. Ministers are servants to Christ, and fellow-servants to one another. They have one Lord, though they have different stations and capacities of service. Observe, It adds much to the beauty and strength of the gospel ministry when ministers are thus loving and condescending one to another, and by all just means support and advance one another's reputation. Paul sent him not only to tell them of his affairs, but to bring him an account of theirs: Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts, Col 4:8. He was willing to hear from them as they could be to hear from him, and thought himself as much obliged to sympathize with them as he thought them obliged to sympathize with him. It is a great comfort, under the troubles and difficulties of life, to have the mutual concern of fellow-christians.
II.Concerning Onesimus (Col 4:9):
With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. He was sent back from Rome along with Tychicus. This was he whom Paul had begotten in his bonds, Plm 1:10. He had been servant to Philemon, and was a member, if not a minister, of their church. He was converted at Rome, whither he had fled from his master's service; and was now sent back, it is probable, with the epistle to Philemon, to introduce him again into his master's family. Observe, Though he was a poor servant, and had been a bad man, yet, being now a convert, Paul calls him a faithful and beloved brother. The meanest circumstance of life, and greatest wickedness of former life, make no difference in the spiritual relation among sincere Christians: they partake of the same privileges, and are entitles to the same regards. The righteousness of God by faith of Jesus Christ is unto all and upon all those that believe; for there is no difference (Rom 3:22): and there is neither Jew nor Greek, neither bond nor free, for you are all one in Christ Jesus, Gal 3:28. Perhaps this was some time after he was converted and sent back to Philemon, and by this time he had entered into the ministry, because Paul calls him a brother.
III.Aristarchus, a fellow-prisoner.
Those who join in services and sufferings should be thereby engaged to one another in holy love. Paul had a particular affection for his fellow-servants and his fellow-prisoners.
IV.Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas.
This is supposed to be the same who wrote the gospel which bears his name. If he come unto you receive him. Paul had a quarrel with Barnabas upon the account of this Mark, who was his nephew, and thought not good to take him with them, because he departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work, Act 15:38. He would not take Mark with him, but took Silas, because Mark had deserted them; and yet Paul is not only reconciled to him himself, but recommends him to the respect of the churches, and gives a great example of a truly Christian forgiving spirit. If men have been guilty of a fault, it must not be always remembered against them. We must forget as well as forgive. If a man be overtaken in a fault, you who are spiritual restore such a one in the spirit of meekness, Gal 6:1.
V.Here is one who is called Jesus, which is the Greek name for the Hebrew Joshua.
If Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterwards have spoken of another day, Heb 4:8. Who is called Justus. It is probable that he changed his name for that of Justus, in honour to the name of the Redeemer. Or else Jesus was his Jewish name, for he was of the circumcision; and Justus his Roman or Latin name. These are my fellow-labourers unto the kingdom of God, who have been a comfort unto me. Observe, What comfort the apostle had in the communion of saints and ministers! One is his fellow-servant, another his fellow-prisoner, and all his fellow-workers, who were working out their own salvation and endeavouring to promote the salvation of others. Good ministers take great comfort in those who are their fellow-workers unto the kingdom of God. Their friendship and converse together are a great refreshment under the sufferings and difficulties in their way.
VI.Epaphras (Col 4:12), the same with Epaphroditus.
He is one of you, one of your church; he salutes you, or sends his service to you, and his best affections and wishes. Always labouring fervently for you in prayers. Epaphras had learned of Paul to be much in prayer for his friends. Observe,
1.In what manner he prayed for them. He laboured in prayer, laboured fervently, and always laboured fervently for them. Those who would succeed in prayer must take pains in prayer; and we must be earnest in prayer, not only for ourselves, but for others also. It is the effectual fervent prayer which is the prevailing prayer, and availeth much (Jam 5:16), and Elias prayed earnestly that it might not rain, Col 4:17.
2.What is the matter of this prayer: That you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. Observe, To stand perfect and complete in the will of God is what we should earnestly desire both for ourselves and others. We must stand complete in all the will of God; in the will of his precepts by a universal obedience, and in the will of his providence by a cheerful submission to it: and we stand perfect and complete in both by constancy and perseverance unto the end. The apostle was witness for Epaphras that he had a great zeal for them: "I bear him record; I can testify for him that he has a great concern for you, and that all he does for you proceeds from a warm desire for your good." And his zeal extended to all about them: to those who are in Laodicea and Hierapolis. He had a great concern for the Christian interest in the neighbouring places, as well as among them.
VII.Luke is another here mentioned, whom he calls the beloved physician.
This is he who wrote the Gospel and Acts, and was Paul's companion. Observe, He was both a physician and an evangelist. Christ himself both taught and healed, and was the great physician as well as prophet of the church. He was the beloved physician; one who recommended himself more than ordinary to the affections of his friends. Skill in physic is a useful accomplishment in a minister and may be improved to more extensive usefulness and greater esteem among Christians.
VIII.Demas.
Whether this was written before the second epistle to Timothy or after is not certain. There we read (Ti2 4:10), Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world. Some have thought that this epistle was written after; and then it is an evidence that, though Demas forsook Paul, yet he did not forsake Christ; or he forsook him but for a time, and recovered himself again, and Paul forgave him and owned him as a brother. But others think more probably that this epistle was written before the other; this in anno 62, that in 66, and then it is an evidence how considerable a man Demas was, who yet afterwards revolted. Many who have made a great figure in profession, and gained a great name among Christians, have yet shamefully apostatized: They went forth from us, because they were not of us, Jo1 2:19.
IX.The brethren in Laodicea are here mentioned, as living in the neighbourhood of Colosse:
and Paul sends salutations to them, and orders that this epistle should be read in the church of the Laodiceans (Col 4:16), that a copy of it should be sent thither, to be read publicly in their congregation. And some think Paul sent another epistle at this time to Laodicea, and ordered them to send for that from Laodicea, and read it in their church: And that you likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. If so, that epistle is now lost, and did not belong to the canon; for all the epistles which the apostles ever wrote were not preserved, any more than the words and actions of our blessed Lord. There are many other things which Jesus did, which if they should be written every one, I suppose the world itself could not contain the books which would be written, Joh 21:25. But some think it was the epistle to the Ephesians, which is still extant.
X.Nymphas is mentioned (Col 4:15) as one who lived at Colosse, and had a church in his house; that is, either a religious family, where the several parts of worship were daily performed; or some part of the congregation met there, when they had no public places of worship allowed, and they were forced to assemble in private houses for fear of their enemies. The disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews (Joh 20:19), and the apostle preached in his own lodging and hired house, Act 28:23, Act 28:30. In the former sense it showed his exemplary piety; in the latter his zeal and public spirit.
XI.Concerning Archippus, who was one of their ministers at Colosse.
They are bidden to admonish him to mind his work as a minister, to take heed to it, and to fulfil it - to be diligent and careful of all the parts of it, and to persevere in it unto the end. They must attend to the main design of their ministry, without troubling themselves or the people with things foreign to it, or of less moment. Observe, (1.) The ministry we have received is a great honour; for it is received in the Lord, and is by his appointment and command. (2.) Those who have received it must fulfil it, or do the full duty of it. Those betray their trust, and will have a sad account at last, who do this work of the Lord negligently. (3.) The people may put their ministers in mind of their duty, and excite them to it: Say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry, though no doubt with decency and respect, not from pride and conceit.
XII.Concerning himself (Col 4:18):
The salutation of me Paul. Remember my bonds. He had a scribe to write all the rest of the epistle, but these words he wrote with his own hand: Remember my bonds. He does not say, "Remember I am a prisoner, and send me supply;" but, "Remember I am in bonds as the apostle of the Gentiles, and let this confirm your faith in the gospel of Christ:" it adds weight to this exhortation: I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy, Eph 4:1. "Grace be with you. The favour of God, and all good, the blessed fruits and effects of it, be with you, and be your portion."
Historical interpretation
Two Centuries of Reception
2 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
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From this he shows that he was always attached to and inseparable from him. And again he says, in the Epistle to the Colossians: "Luke, the beloved physician, greets you."
"Luke, the beloved physician, saluteth you." This is the Evangelist. It is not to lower this man that he placeth him after, but to raise the other, viz. Epaphroditus. It is probable that there were others called by this name. "And Demas," he says. After saying, "Luke, the physician, saluteth you," he added, "the beloved." And no small praise is this, but be beloved of Paul even great exceedingly.
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Summary
Colossians 4:14 offers a concise yet profound glimpse into the apostle Paul's immediate circle during his imprisonment, highlighting two distinct figures: Luke, the "beloved physician," and Demas. This brief salutation not only conveys personal greetings to the Colossian church but also subtly underscores themes of faithful companionship, the diverse callings within early Christian ministry, and the enduring human element of commitment and perseverance in the journey of faith.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated within the concluding section of Paul's letter to the Colossians, specifically among his personal greetings and final exhortations. Following his theological exposition (chapters 1-2) and practical instructions for Christian living (chapter 3), Paul dedicates the opening verses of chapter 4 to a call for prayer and wise conduct toward outsiders. From Colossians 4:7 onward, he transitions to personal remarks, introducing the messengers Tychicus and Onesimus, and then extending greetings from various companions who are with him. These salutations, including the mention of Luke and Demas, serve to personalize the letter, reinforce the communal bonds of the early church, and provide a tangible connection between Paul's ministry and the Colossian believers. The inclusion of these names underscores the collaborative nature of apostolic work and the network of support that sustained Paul, especially during his likely imprisonment, as hinted at in Colossians 4:18.
Historical & Cultural Context
Paul wrote Colossians from prison, likely in Rome, around A.D. 60-62. During this period, imprisonment did not necessarily mean solitary confinement; Paul often had companions, some of whom were fellow ministers, while others provided practical support. The mention of Luke as a "physician" (Greek: iatros) is significant, indicating that the early Christian movement attracted individuals from various professional backgrounds, including learned ones. This highlights the diverse social strata reached by the gospel and the practical skills that could be consecrated to ministry. The practice of sending greetings from companions was common in ancient letters, serving to affirm relationships and validate the sender's network. The juxtaposition of Luke and Demas, while not explicitly contrasted here, would later carry poignant historical weight for early readers familiar with Demas's subsequent departure from Paul, as recorded in 2 Timothy 4:10.
Key Themes
Colossians 4:14 contributes to several overarching themes within the letter and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of Christian fellowship and mutual support in ministry, illustrating that Paul's work was a collaborative effort, not a solitary endeavor. This aligns with the letter's emphasis on the unity of believers in Christ, as seen in Colossians 3:12-15. Secondly, the verse subtly highlights the diversity of gifts and callings within the body of Christ, with Luke representing a professional skill set (medicine) integrated into gospel service. This resonates with Paul's teaching on the church as a body with many members and functions, a theme explored more fully in Romans 12:4-8 and 1 Corinthians 12. Finally, the inclusion of both Luke and Demas, especially when viewed through the lens of later New Testament writings, introduces the theme of perseverance and the human element of faith, reminding believers that commitment can waver, and steadfastness is a vital virtue, a concept Paul often encouraged, for example, in Colossians 1:23.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term, derived from agapáō (to love), signifies a deep, affectionate, and often spiritual love. When Paul uses "beloved" to describe Luke, it conveys a profound sense of endearment, trust, and shared spiritual bond, indicating that Luke was not merely a companion but a cherished friend and co-laborer. This designation speaks to the quality of their relationship and Luke's faithful presence.
This word directly translates to "physician" or "healer." Its inclusion here is a specific detail about Luke's profession, confirming his medical background. This detail is significant as it shows that individuals with specialized skills and intellectual pursuits were part of the early Christian movement and could dedicate their talents to supporting apostolic ministry, perhaps even providing medical care to Paul during his imprisonments or arduous travels.
This name is likely a shortened form of Demetrius. In this verse, Demas is simply named without any descriptive epithet, unlike Luke. While his presence here indicates he was part of Paul's immediate circle at the time of writing Colossians, his later actions, as recorded in 2 Timothy, cast a shadow on this initial positive association. The simple naming here, devoid of commendation or affection, subtly contrasts with the "beloved" applied to Luke, though this contrast only becomes apparent with subsequent revelation.
Verse Breakdown
"Luke, the beloved physician"
This phrase introduces Luke with two key identifiers. "Luke" names the individual, traditionally identified as the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. "The beloved physician" provides a dual description: "beloved" (Greek: agapētós) indicates Paul's deep affection and esteem for him, suggesting a close, trusted relationship, while "physician" (Greek: iatrós) specifies his profession. This detail is unique in Paul's greetings and highlights Luke's particular contribution or background, possibly implying he provided medical care or simply that his profession was a notable aspect of his identity within the community.
"and Demas, greet you."
This second clause introduces Demas, simply by name, without any descriptive title. The conjunction "and" (Greek: kaí) links Demas with Luke, indicating they are both present with Paul and sending greetings. "Greet you" (Greek: aspázomai from aspázomai, meaning to salute or welcome) signifies a warm, personal salutation from these individuals to the Colossian believers, reinforcing the communal ties between Paul's ministry team and the churches he served. The lack of an accompanying descriptor for Demas, in contrast to Luke, becomes notably significant when viewed in light of later New Testament accounts.
Literary Devices
Colossians 4:14 employs several subtle but effective literary devices. Juxtaposition is evident in the immediate pairing of Luke and Demas. While not explicitly contrasted within this single verse, the subsequent New Testament narrative (particularly 2 Timothy 4:10) reveals a stark difference in their ultimate faithfulness, making their initial joint mention here a poignant literary foreshadowing. The phrase "beloved physician" serves as a form of Apposition, where "the beloved physician" stands in apposition to "Luke," providing additional, descriptive information that enriches the reader's understanding of his character and profession. Furthermore, the verse utilizes Personalization, as Paul includes specific individuals by name, transforming the letter from a purely theological treatise into a warm, relational communication that underscores the human connections and collaborative spirit inherent in early Christian ministry.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Colossians 4:14, though brief, is rich with theological and thematic implications. It underscores the profound value of companionship and partnership in Christian ministry, demonstrating that even an apostle as formidable as Paul relied on a network of faithful co-laborers. The inclusion of a "physician" highlights the Christian conviction that all legitimate professions and skills can be consecrated to God's service, challenging any false dichotomy between sacred and secular work. Moreover, when read in conjunction with other Pauline epistles, this verse subtly introduces the theme of perseverance in faith, as the subsequent trajectory of Demas serves as a sobering reminder of the spiritual battles faced by believers and the necessity of steadfastness to the end, contrasting with Luke's unwavering loyalty.
Reflection and Application
Colossians 4:14 invites us to reflect on the nature of Christian community and the call to faithful service. It reminds us that ministry, whether in a formal or informal capacity, is rarely a solitary endeavor but thrives within a supportive network of believers. We are encouraged to recognize, appreciate, and actively participate in the diverse gifts and callings within the body of Christ, understanding that God uses people from all walks of life and with various skills to advance His kingdom. The contrasting paths of Luke and Demas offer a timeless lesson: while initial enthusiasm is good, true discipleship requires enduring commitment and a vigilant guarding of one's heart against the allure of the world. We are called to cultivate the steadfastness of Luke, remaining faithful to Christ and His mission even amidst difficulties, and to learn from Demas's failure, ensuring our love for God outweighs any worldly affection.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who was Luke, the beloved physician, and what was his significance?
Luke is traditionally identified as the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts, making him a pivotal figure in New Testament history. Paul describes him as "the beloved physician," indicating both Paul's deep affection and trust for him, and Luke's professional background in medicine. This detail suggests Luke may have provided medical care to Paul during his arduous missionary journeys and imprisonments. His significance lies not only in his literary contributions, which provide a comprehensive account of Jesus' life and the early church's expansion, but also in his unwavering faithfulness to Paul. 2 Timothy 4:11 poignantly records that "Only Luke is with me" during Paul's final imprisonment, highlighting his steadfast loyalty.
Who was Demas, and why is his mention alongside Luke noteworthy?
Demas was a companion and "fellow laborer" of Paul, as also mentioned in Philemon 1:24. At the time of the writing of Colossians, he was part of Paul's immediate circle, sending greetings to the church. His mention alongside Luke is noteworthy primarily because of a later, more somber reference in 2 Timothy 4:10, where Paul laments, "Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica." This subsequent information provides a stark contrast to Luke's enduring faithfulness, turning the seemingly innocuous greeting in Colossians 4:14 into a subtle, yet powerful, illustration of the human capacity for both steadfastness and spiritual compromise.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While Colossians 4:14 primarily offers a glimpse into the human dynamics of early Christian ministry, it finds its Christ-centered fulfillment in several profound ways. Luke's steadfast devotion to Paul, even in imprisonment, mirrors the unwavering faithfulness to Christ that all believers are called to embody. Just as Luke served Paul, so too are we called to serve the body of Christ, ultimately serving Christ Himself, who is the head of the church (Colossians 1:18). Luke, the physician, points us to Jesus, the ultimate Great Physician, who came not for the healthy but for the sick (Mark 2:17), offering spiritual healing for sin and brokenness. Conversely, Demas's tragic departure, driven by a love for "this present world," starkly illustrates the warning Jesus gave about the cost of discipleship and the impossibility of serving two masters (Matthew 6:24). Christ Himself exemplified perfect perseverance in the face of worldly allure and suffering, "who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross" (Hebrews 12:2). Thus, Luke's example calls us to follow Christ with unreserved commitment, and Demas's serves as a solemn reminder to cling to Christ above all else, for only in Him do we find the power to remain steadfast to the end (Philippians 4:13).