Colossians 4:17

KJV

And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} say {G2036} to Archippus {G751}, Take heed {G991} to the ministry {G1248} which {G3739} thou hast received {G3880} in {G1722} the Lord {G2962}, that {G2443} thou fulfil {G4137} it {G846}.

Complete Jewish Bible

And tell Archippus, “See that you complete the task you were given in the Lord.”

Berean Standard Bible

Tell Archippus: “See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord.”

American Standard Version

And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Colossians 4:17 delivers a direct and public exhortation from the Apostle Paul to Archippus, urging him to be diligent and faithful in the specific ministry he has been entrusted with by the Lord. This verse serves as a timeless reminder of the sacred responsibility associated with Christian service, emphasizing the divine origin of one's calling and the imperative to fully accomplish the work given by God. It underscores the importance of vigilance, perseverance, and accountability within the body of Christ for those engaged in spiritual leadership and service.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Colossians 4:17 is situated within the concluding remarks and personal greetings of Paul's letter to the Colossians. Following a robust theological exposition on the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ (chapters 1-2) and practical exhortations for Christian living (chapter 3 and early chapter 4), Paul transitions to personal greetings, commendations, and specific instructions. This particular verse is a direct, public charge, delivered through the church, indicating the importance of Archippus's role and the necessity of his faithful execution of duties. It follows instructions for prayer and wise conduct toward outsiders, and precedes a series of greetings from Paul's companions and his final salutation. The public nature of this address suggests a communal responsibility in upholding and encouraging those in ministry.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The letter to the Colossians was written by Paul during his imprisonment, likely in Rome (c. A.D. 60-62). The church in Colossae faced various philosophical and religious challenges, including Gnostic-like tendencies, asceticism, and angel worship, which diminished the unique position of Christ. In this context, faithful leadership was crucial for maintaining doctrinal purity and spiritual vitality. Archippus is also mentioned in [Philemon 1:2](/philemon/1-2 "Philemon 1:2 - Paul's Greeting to Philemon, Apphia, and Archippus"), where he is addressed alongside Philemon and Apphia as a "fellow soldier," suggesting he was a significant figure in the church, possibly a leader or minister, perhaps even within Philemon's household, which may have hosted the church. The public nature of Paul's instruction in Colossians implies a known role and a need for communal encouragement or gentle admonition regarding his responsibilities.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes in Colossians and Paul's broader theology. It highlights the theme of **Christian Stewardship and Responsibility**, emphasizing that believers, especially those in leadership, are entrusted with divine tasks. The phrase "received in the Lord" underscores the theme of **Divine Calling and Empowerment**, indicating that ministry is not self-appointed but divinely ordained and enabled. The imperative "that thou fulfil it" speaks to the theme of **Faithfulness and Perseverance in Service**, echoing Paul's own commitment to [finishing his race](/2_timothy/4-7 "2 Timothy 4:7 - Paul's Confidence in Finishing the Race"). Furthermore, the public nature of the instruction points to the theme of **Mutual Accountability within the Church**, where the community plays a role in supporting and encouraging its leaders to remain true to their commitments, as seen in Paul's instructions for the church to [admonish the idle](/2_thessalonians/3-14-15 "2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 - Admonishing the Idle").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **ministry (Greek, _diakonía'_):** This term, from which we derive "deacon," broadly refers to "attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service." In this context, it signifies a specific spiritual responsibility or leadership role within the church, encompassing any form of Christian service undertaken for the benefit of others and the glory of God. It emphasizes service rather than status.
* **received (Greek, _paralambánō'_):** Meaning "to receive near, i.e., associate with oneself... to assume an office; figuratively, to learn." This verb implies that Archippus's ministry was not something he initiated or earned, but rather it was given to him, likely by the Lord through the recognition and affirmation of the church. This highlights the divine origin and entrustment of his calling, similar to how spiritual gifts are [received by grace](/romans/12-6 "Romans 12:6 - Diverse Spiritual Gifts").
* **fulfil (Greek, _plēróō'_):** This verb means "to make replete, i.e., to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish... satisfy, execute (an office), finish (a period or task), verify." In this context, it is an imperative to bring the ministry to its intended goal, to complete it fully and effectively, not merely to start it but to see it through to completion with excellence and faithfulness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And say to Archippus,"**: This opening phrase indicates a direct, public, and perhaps urgent instruction. Paul is not merely sending a private message but is instructing the entire Colossian church to deliver this charge to Archippus, suggesting a communal interest and responsibility in his faithfulness.
* **"Take heed to the ministry"**: This is a strong imperative, urging vigilance, careful consideration, and diligent attention. It calls Archippus to be watchful over his responsibilities, to guard them, and to execute them with seriousness and dedication. The "ministry" refers to the specific service or office he has been given.
* **"which thou hast received in the Lord,"**: This clause emphasizes the divine origin and sacred nature of Archippus's calling. His ministry is not a human endeavor or a self-appointed task, but a divine assignment, given "in the Lord," meaning it is rooted in Christ, empowered by Him, and for His purposes.
* **"that thou fulfil it."**: This final imperative states the desired outcome: the complete and faithful execution of the ministry. It is not enough to have received a calling; one must bring it to its intended completion, demonstrating perseverance, diligence, and obedience to the divine entrustment.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Direct Address** and **Imperative Mood**. Paul directly addresses Archippus through the church, making the instruction personal yet publicly accountable. The use of imperative verbs like "say," "take heed," and "fulfil" conveys a strong sense of command and urgency, underscoring the importance of the message. The phrase "in the Lord" functions as a form of **Theological Grounding**, rooting Archippus's ministry in divine authority and purpose, elevating it beyond a mere human task. The entire verse serves as a concise **Exhortation**, a form of pastoral encouragement and challenge, aimed at promoting faithfulness and diligence in Christian service.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Colossians 4:17 underscores the profound theological truth that all Christian service, especially leadership, is a divine entrustment, not a human ambition. It highlights the sacred nature of ministry, emphasizing that it is "received in the Lord," meaning it originates from Him, is empowered by Him, and is ultimately for His glory. This perspective transforms service from a burdensome duty into a privileged act of worship and obedience. The call to "fulfil" one's ministry speaks to the necessity of perseverance and faithfulness, recognizing that God equips those He calls and expects them to complete the work He has assigned. This aligns with the broader biblical teaching on stewardship, where believers are seen as managers of God's resources and callings, accountable for their diligent use.

* [1 Corinthians 4:1-2](/1_corinthians/4-1-2 "1 Corinthians 4:1-2 - Stewards of God's Mysteries")
* [2 Timothy 4:5](/2_timothy/4-5 "2 Timothy 4:5 - Fulfilling Your Ministry")
* [Ephesians 4:11-12](/ephesians/4-11-12 "Ephesians 4:11-12 - Gifts for the Church's Equipping")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Colossians 4:17 serves as a powerful and enduring challenge for every believer, whether in formal leadership or engaged in any form of service within the body of Christ or the world. It compels us to reflect on the nature of our own "ministry"—the unique calling, gifts, and opportunities God has entrusted to us. Are we taking heed, diligently attending to the responsibilities God has placed before us? Do we recognize that our service is "in the Lord," deriving its purpose and power from Him, rather than from our own strength or ambition? The imperative to "fulfil it" calls us to perseverance, to see our tasks through to completion with faithfulness, even when faced with challenges or discouragement. This verse reminds us that our work for the Lord is not trivial; it is a sacred trust for which we are accountable, not only to God but also, in a healthy church context, to our fellow believers who can encourage and support us in our journey of service.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "ministry" or specific area of service do you believe the Lord has entrusted to you, whether formally or informally?**
* **In what ways are you "taking heed" or diligently attending to this ministry? Are there areas where you need to be more vigilant or focused?**
* **How does recognizing that your ministry is "received in the Lord" change your perspective on its importance and your approach to it?**
* **What steps can you take to "fulfil" your ministry more completely and faithfully, especially when facing obstacles or a lack of motivation?**

### FAQ
**Who was Archippus, and why was Paul addressing him publicly in this way?**

Answer: Archippus was a Christian leader or minister, likely in the church at Colossae or the nearby city of Laodicea. He is also mentioned in [Philemon 1:2](/philemon/1-2 "Philemon 1:2 - Paul's Greeting to Philemon, Apphia, and Archippus") as a "fellow soldier" alongside Philemon and Apphia, suggesting a close association with their household, which may have hosted a house church. Paul's public address to Archippus through the Colossian church was not necessarily a rebuke, but a public exhortation. It served to underscore the importance of his specific "ministry" (service or office) and to encourage him to be diligent and faithful in completing it. This public charge also served to remind the entire congregation of their role in supporting and encouraging their leaders, and the shared responsibility of all believers to fulfill their God-given callings. It was a pastoral act, designed to strengthen Archippus and the church.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Colossians 4:17, though a direct charge to an individual, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Christ. Jesus Himself is the supreme example of one who "received" a ministry from the Father and "fulfilled" it completely. His entire life was a ministry of service, culminating in His redemptive work on the cross, as He declared, "[It is finished!](/john/19-30 "John 19:30 - Jesus' Last Words on the Cross")" (John 19:30). He came not to be served, but "[to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")" (Mark 10:45). Every Christian's ministry, like Archippus's, is a participation in Christ's ongoing work in the world, empowered by His Spirit, and directed by His will. We are called to "take heed" to the ministry we have received, knowing that it is "in the Lord"—originating from Him, sustained by His power, and performed for His glory. Our faithfulness in fulfilling our individual callings reflects the faithfulness of Christ and contributes to the building up of His body, the Church, until we "[all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ](/ephesians/4-13 "Ephesians 4:13 - Unity and Maturity in Christ")" (Ephesians 4:13). Thus, Archippus's charge is a microcosm of the greater call for all believers to live out their Christ-given purpose, mirroring the perfect service of the Savior.

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

Philemon 1:2

And to [our] beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house:

Acts 1:17

For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.

Ezekiel 44:23

And they shall teach my people [the difference] between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean.

Ezekiel 44:24

And in controversy they shall stand in judgment; [and] they shall judge it according to my judgments: and they shall keep my laws and my statutes in all mine assemblies; and they shall hallow my sabbaths.

2 Timothy 2:2

And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

2 Timothy 4:1

¶ I charge [thee] therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;

2 Timothy 4:5

But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.