Colossians 4:3

KJV

Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

KJV (with Strong's)

Withal {G260} praying {G4336} also {G2532} for {G4012} us {G2257}, that {G2443} God {G2316} would open {G455} unto us {G2254} a door {G2374} of utterance {G3056}, to speak {G2980} the mystery {G3466} of Christ {G5547}, for {G1223} which {G3739} I am {G1210} also {G2532} in bonds {G1210}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Include prayer for us, too, that God may open a door for us to proclaim the message about the secret of the Messiah — for that is why I am in prison.

Berean Standard Bible

as you pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.

American Standard Version

withal praying for us also, that God may open unto us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In Colossians 4:3, the Apostle Paul, writing from imprisonment, earnestly requests the Colossian believers to pray for him and his fellow ministers. His specific plea is for God to grant them an "open door of utterance," enabling them to clearly and effectively proclaim "the mystery of Christ," the very message for which he is currently suffering "in bonds." This verse powerfully highlights the essential role of intercessory prayer in advancing the Gospel, even for seasoned apostles facing significant personal hardship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Colossians 4:3 is situated within the concluding section of Paul's letter to the church at Colossae, following his profound theological exposition on the supremacy of Christ and the believer's new life in Him. Chapters 1-2 establish Christ's cosmic preeminence and His sufficiency against various false teachings, while chapter 3 transitions to practical exhortations for Christian living, emphasizing putting off the old self and putting on the new. Chapter 4 begins with further instructions on walking in wisdom towards outsiders and making the most of every opportunity, leading directly into Paul's specific request for prayer. This personal appeal for intercession for his ministry underscores that even the most profound theological truths must translate into practical, Spirit-empowered proclamation, a task not accomplished by human effort alone but through divine enablement sought in prayer. The request for prayer for his ministry is seamlessly integrated with his broader instructions for Christian conduct and witness.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul wrote the Epistle to the Colossians while imprisoned, likely in Rome (c. A.D. 60-62). This was a period when the Roman Empire, despite its general tolerance of Judaism, viewed the rapidly expanding Christian movement with suspicion, often leading to persecution. Paul's "bonds" were a direct consequence of his zealous preaching of the Gospel, particularly his mission to the Gentiles, which often provoked opposition from both Jewish and Roman authorities. The concept of an "open door" for ministry was a common metaphor in the ancient world, signifying an opportunity or access. For Paul, this was not merely about physical freedom but about the spiritual freedom to proclaim the message in a hostile environment. The Colossian church, situated in Phrygia, was a diverse community grappling with syncretistic influences, making the clear and unhindered proclamation of the pure Gospel of Christ's supremacy all the more vital.
* **Key Themes:** Colossians 4:3 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the letter and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it emphasizes the **necessity of prayer in Christian ministry**, demonstrating that even an apostle like Paul, endowed with unique spiritual gifts and authority, was utterly dependent on the intercession of the church for the effectiveness of his evangelistic endeavors. This aligns with Paul's consistent emphasis on prayer throughout his epistles, such as his exhortation in [Ephesians 6:18](/ephesians/6-18 "Ephesians 6:18 - Praying at All Times"). Secondly, the verse highlights the **divine initiative in evangelism**, where God "opens a door" for the proclamation of His Word, indicating that opportunities for effective witness are sovereignly granted. This echoes Paul's understanding of God's providential hand in his missionary journeys, as seen in [Acts 14:27](/acts/14-27 "Acts 14:27 - God Opening a Door of Faith to Gentiles"). Finally, the phrase "mystery of Christ" points to the central **revelation of God's redemptive plan in Jesus Christ**, particularly the inclusion of Gentiles into God's covenant people, a theme Paul elaborates on in [Ephesians 3:4-6](/ephesians/3-4-6 "Ephesians 3:4-6 - The Mystery of Christ Revealed"). Paul's imprisonment "for which I am also in bonds" underscores the theme of **suffering for the Gospel**, portraying it not as a hindrance but as a means by which the message of Christ is advanced, a perspective also evident in [Philippians 1:12-14](/philippians/1-12-14 "Philippians 1:12-14 - Paul's Imprisonment Advances the Gospel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **door (Greek, _thýra'_):** From G2374, apparently a primary word (compare "door"); a portal or entrance (the opening or the closure, literally or figuratively). Here, "door" is used metaphorically to signify an opportunity or access for the Gospel message. Paul is praying for the removal of barriers and the granting of open access to people's hearts and minds, as well as favorable circumstances for proclamation.
* **utterance (Greek, _lógos'_):** From G3056, something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, (with the article in John) the Divine Expression (i.e. Christ). In this context, _lógos_ refers to the spoken word, specifically the message of the Gospel. Paul desires not just an opportunity to speak, but the ability to speak clearly, powerfully, and persuasively.
* **mystery (Greek, _mystḗrion'_):** From G3466, from a derivative of (to shut the mouth); a secret or "mystery" (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites). In Pauline theology, a "mystery" is not something unknowable, but a truth previously hidden by God in past ages and now revealed through Christ and His apostles. Here, it refers to the profound truth of God's redemptive plan centered on Christ, particularly the inclusion of both Jews and Gentiles into one body through faith.
* **bonds (Greek, _déō'_):** From G1210, a primary verb; to bind (in various applications, literally or figuratively):--bind, be in bonds, knit, tie, wind. Here, it refers to Paul's literal physical chains and imprisonment. Despite his physical confinement, Paul's focus remains on the unhindered advancement of the Gospel, demonstrating that the Word of God is not bound.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Withal praying also for us,"**: Paul initiates his request for prayer, including himself and his fellow ministers (likely Timothy, Aristarchus, Mark, etc., mentioned later in Colossians 4). The "withal" (G260, _háma_) emphasizes that this prayer request is in conjunction with the Colossians' own prayer life, suggesting a mutual and continuous practice of prayer.
* **"that God would open unto us a door of utterance,"**: This is the specific content of Paul's prayer request. He asks God (G2316, _theós_) to "open" (G455, _anoígō_) a "door" (G2374, _thýra_) for "utterance" (G3056, _lógos_). This is a metaphorical plea for divine enablement, seeking opportunities and effectiveness in proclaiming the Gospel message. It implies a desire for receptive hearers and favorable circumstances for evangelism.
* **"to speak the mystery of Christ,"**: This clause clarifies the purpose of the "open door of utterance." The goal is to articulate "the mystery of Christ" (G3466, _mystḗrion_ G5547, _Christós_). This refers to the profound, previously hidden truth of God's plan of salvation, now fully revealed in Jesus Christ, encompassing His person, His saving work, and the inclusion of all believers—Jew and Gentile—into His body.
* **"for which I am also in bonds:"**: Paul concludes by stating the reason for his current imprisonment. His "bonds" (G1210, _déō_) are directly linked to his mission of proclaiming this very "mystery of Christ." This highlights his suffering for the Gospel and underscores the cost of discipleship and apostolic ministry, yet it also subtly implies that his imprisonment has not silenced his commitment to the message.

#### Literary Devices
Colossians 4:3 effectively employs several **literary devices**. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, specifically in the phrase "a door of utterance." The "door" serves as a powerful image for opportunity, access, or passage, while "utterance" refers to the spoken word or message. Together, they create a vivid picture of Paul's yearning for divinely granted avenues and effectiveness in proclaiming the Gospel. This metaphor is common in Paul's writings, reflecting his strategic approach to ministry. There is also an element of **Paradox** or **Irony** in Paul's situation: though he is physically "in bonds" and confined, he prays for an "open door" for the Word of God, which itself cannot be bound. His physical restriction contrasts sharply with his spiritual desire for boundless proclamation. Finally, the verse functions as a **Personal Appeal**, directly engaging the Colossian audience and inviting them into partnership through prayer, thereby fostering a sense of shared mission and mutual dependence within the Christian community.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Colossians 4:3 profoundly connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's redemptive mission and the role of His people in it. It underscores the divine sovereignty in opening doors for the Gospel, emphasizing that effective evangelism is not merely a human endeavor but a Spirit-empowered work. Paul's request for prayer for "utterance" and for "the mystery of Christ" reveals the core content of the apostolic message: Christ Himself, in whom "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom All Treasures are Hidden")). His imprisonment "for which I am also in bonds" also highlights the theme of suffering for the sake of the Gospel, a consistent motif in Paul's life and theology, demonstrating that adversity can serve as a platform for the advancement of God's kingdom. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that prayer is foundational to all missionary enterprise, aligning human effort with divine purpose.

* [Ephesians 6:19](/ephesians/6-19 "Ephesians 6:19 - Paul's Prayer for Boldness and Open Utterance")
* [1 Corinthians 16:9](/1_corinthians/16-9 "1 Corinthians 16:9 - An Open Door for Effective Ministry")
* [Acts 14:27](/acts/14-27 "Acts 14:27 - God Opening a Door of Faith to Gentiles")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Colossians 4:3 offers timeless and profound lessons for every believer today, calling us to a deeper commitment to prayer and evangelism. Paul's request, despite his apostolic stature and imprisonment, powerfully reminds us that no one is beyond the need for intercessory prayer, especially those engaged in proclaiming the Gospel. We are called to pray fervently for missionaries, pastors, and evangelists, asking God to open "doors of utterance" for them—opportunities to speak and the divine enablement to articulate the truth of Christ clearly and persuasively, even in challenging or hostile environments. This also extends to our personal lives: we should actively pray for God to open doors for us to share our faith in our daily interactions, workplaces, and communities. Our message, like Paul's, must always be centered on "the mystery of Christ"—His person, His saving work, and His lordship—as the ultimate hope for humanity. Furthermore, Paul's willingness to suffer "in bonds" for this message encourages us to persevere amidst our own challenges and difficulties, recognizing that even our trials can be used by God to advance His kingdom and bear witness to His truth.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **For whom are you currently praying regarding their ministry or evangelistic efforts, and what specific "doors of utterance" might God be calling you to pray for them?**
* **In what areas of your own life do you need God to "open a door of utterance" for you to share the mystery of Christ, and how can you be more intentional in seeking and seizing those opportunities?**
* **How does Paul's willingness to be "in bonds" for the Gospel challenge your own comfort or priorities in sharing your faith?**

### FAQ

**What does "a door of utterance" mean in Colossians 4:3?**

Answer: "A door of utterance" (Greek: _thýra tou lógou_) is a powerful metaphor used by Paul to signify a divinely granted opportunity and effectiveness in proclaiming the Gospel message. The "door" represents access or an open avenue, while "utterance" refers to the spoken word or message itself. So, Paul is praying for God to remove obstacles and create favorable circumstances for him to speak the Word of God freely, clearly, and powerfully, and for that message to be received by receptive hearts. It's a prayer for both the chance to speak and the ability to speak effectively about Christ. This concept is also seen in [1 Corinthians 16:9](/1_corinthians/16-9 "1 Corinthians 16:9 - An Open Door for Effective Ministry") where Paul speaks of a "great door and effectual" being opened for him.

**What is "the mystery of Christ" that Paul refers to?**

Answer: In Pauline theology, a "mystery" (Greek: _mystḗrion_) does not mean something unknowable or incomprehensible, but rather a truth that was previously hidden or unrevealed by God in past ages, but has now been made known through Christ and His apostles. "The mystery of Christ" specifically refers to God's profound redemptive plan centered on Jesus Christ, particularly the astounding truth that Gentiles, who were once alienated from God's covenant people, are now, through faith in Christ, fellow-heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus ([Ephesians 3:3-6](/ephesians/3-3-6 "Ephesians 3:3-6 - The Mystery Revealed")). It encompasses the full revelation of God's saving purpose, uniting all things in Christ and reconciling humanity to Himself.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Colossians 4:3 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ, who is Himself the embodiment of the "mystery" Paul longs to proclaim and the very "door" through whom all access to God is granted. Christ is the "mystery" because He is the very revelation of God's eternal plan, "Christ in you, the hope of glory" ([Colossians 1:27](/colossians/1-27 "Colossians 1:27 - Christ in You, the Hope of Glory")). He is the Word (Greek: _Logos_) made flesh, the ultimate "utterance" of God to humanity ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Became Flesh") and [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). Furthermore, Jesus declared Himself to be "the door" for the sheep, through whom anyone enters and finds salvation ([John 10:9](/john/10-9 "John 10:9 - Jesus is the Door")). Paul's prayer for an "open door of utterance" is therefore a prayer for Christ Himself to be made known, for His saving work to be proclaimed, and for His sovereign power to open hearts and minds to the truth. Even Paul's "bonds" find their Christ-centered significance, as he shares in the sufferings of Christ, knowing that such suffering can advance the Gospel and ultimately lead to a deeper knowledge of Christ and the power of His resurrection ([Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")). Thus, Colossians 4:3 is not merely a request for ministry success, but a profound Christological statement, recognizing that all effective proclamation flows from and points back to the person and work of Jesus 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

Ephesians 6:19

¶ And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

Ephesians 6:20

For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Acts 14:27

And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.

2 Thessalonians 3:1

¶ Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have [free] course, and be glorified, even as [it is] with you:

2 Thessalonians 3:2

And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all [men] have not faith.

Philippians 1:13

So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other [places];

Philippians 1:14

And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.