### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **Epaphrâs**, represented by `{{G1889}}`, is the name of a Christian, contracted from Ἐπαφρόδιτος. It appears **3 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting a specific individual who was a key figure in the early church and a companion to the Apostle Paul.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1889}}` is presented in several distinct roles that define his character and ministry. The Colossians **learned** `{{G3129}}` from him, as he is described as a **dear** `{{G27}}` **fellowservant** `{{G4889}}` and a **faithful** `{{G4103}}` **minister** `{{G1249}}` of **Christ** `{{G5547}}` on their behalf [[Colossians 1:7]]. He is identified as a **servant** `{{G1401}}` of **Christ** who is from the Colossian community ("one of `{{G1537}}` you" [[Colossians 4:12]]). His deep care for them is shown as he is "always `{{G3842}}` labouring fervently `{{G75}}`" for them in **prayers** `{{G4335}}`, with the goal that they might **stand** `{{G2476}}` **perfect** `{{G5046}}` and **complete** `{{G4137}}` in the **will** `{{G2307}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}`. He is also called **my** `{{G3450}}` **fellowprisoner** `{{G4869}}` **in** `{{G1722}}` **Christ** `{{G5547}}` **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` [[Philemon 1:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the descriptions of Epaphras:
* `{{G4889}}` **sýndoulos** (fellowservant): This term, meaning a "co-slave" or servitor of the same master, is used to describe Epaphras's relationship with Paul and other believers, united in their service to Christ [[Colossians 1:7]].
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (servant): Defined as a slave, this word emphasizes a state of complete subjection. Its use for Epaphras shows his total dedication to Christ as his master [[Colossians 4:12]].
* `{{G4869}}` **synaichmálōtos** (fellowprisoner): Meaning "a co-captive," this word highlights the shared suffering and commitment Epaphras had with Paul for the sake of the gospel [[Philemon 1:23]].
* `{{G1249}}` **diákonos** (minister): Describing an attendant, waiter, or Christian teacher, this word points to Epaphras's active and faithful service to the church [[Colossians 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
The brief mentions of `{{G1889}}` carry significant theological weight, painting a picture of a model believer.
* **Devotion in Service:** Epaphras’s identity as a **servant** `{{G1401}}` and **fellowservant** `{{G4889}}` of **Christ** `{{G5547}}` underscores the Christian's position of willing and faithful servitude to God.
* **Passionate Intercession:** His act of "labouring fervently `{{G75}}`" in **prayers** `{{G4335}}` demonstrates the vital importance of interceding for other believers. His aim was their spiritual maturity, that they would be **perfect** `{{G5046}}` and **complete** `{{G4137}}` in **all** `{{G3956}}` the **will** `{{G2307}}` of **God** `{{G2316}}` [[Colossians 4:12]].
* **Commitment in Suffering:** Being named a **fellowprisoner** `{{G4869}}` reveals a deep commitment that extends to sharing in hardship for the gospel, showing a steadfast loyalty to both Christ and his fellow workers.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1889}}` Epaphras, though mentioned only three times, is presented as an exemplar of Christian discipleship. He is a **faithful** `{{G4103}}` **minister** `{{G1249}}` who taught others, a devoted **servant** `{{G1401}}` who prayed fervently for their spiritual completion, and a loyal **fellowprisoner** `{{G4869}}` who shared in suffering for the faith. His life illustrates a profound dedication to Christ and a deep, active love for the church.
TRV