A Faithful Minister Of Christ On Our Behalf!

“You learned the gospel from Epaphras, our dear fellow slave—a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf—who also told us of your love in the Spirit.”  (Colossians 1:7-8 NET)

As we explore Colossians 1:7 & 8, I feel deeply touched by the profound implications, particularly as we meet a remarkable figure who significantly influenced the spread of the Gospel in the vibrant city of Colossae and possibly other places. While it may be tempting to attribute this work to the Apostle Paul, many biblical scholars suggest it was not solely his endeavor. Instead, Paul preached in Ephesus, about 80 to 100 miles from Colossae, where he dedicated three transformative years to his ministry among the Ephesians. During this time, an abundant harvest of souls was gathered, as many individuals were spiritually awakened and embraced their newfound faith in Jesus Christ.

Among these newfound believers was a passionate young man whose heart was ignited by Paul’s message of Christ. Returning to his hometown of Colossae, he was driven by an earnest desire to share the life-changing Gospel with his neighbors. He began to engage with a small group of curious souls, sharing the love and teachings of Jesus, which ultimately led to the formation of a new community of faith dedicated to honoring God and growing in faith and the Holy Spirit. This zealous young man is the one we will delve deeper into today: Epaphras.

Epaphras, intriguingly, is a name that does not stem from early Christianity or Jewish roots; rather, it comes from gentile or pagan origins, signifying “dedicated to Aphrodite.” The name Epaphras (Ἐπαφρᾶς) is rich with meaning. The etymology reveals a combination of Greek elements: ‘epi’ (meaning “upon”) and ‘aphros’ (meaning “foam”), together evoking a sense of being “favored,” implying “very foamy, very lovely, or even devoted.” It is a shorter form of the more common Greco-Roman name Epaphroditus. Although historically linked to the pagan goddess of love, the name gained widespread acceptance and popularity in Roman society and was eventually adopted and embraced by early Christians.

As we consider the pivotal vocabulary in this context, the phrase “You learned the gospel…” features the Greek verb for ‘learned’ as ‘manthanō,’ which is notably plural. In this context, the term transcends mere familiarity; it conveys the deeper mission of “making disciples.” As we unpack its significance, we’ll later explore synonyms that shed light on its rich implications. Understanding that ‘manthanō’ essentially means to ‘make disciples’ allows us to connect it with the noun used to describe Jesus’ disciples, ‘mathētēs,’ which shares the same linguistic root word.

Thus, Paul asserts that “you learned the Gospel from Epaphras,” who himself was nurtured and mentored at the feet of Paul in Ephesus. However, upon returning to Colossae, Epaphras took on the responsibility of spreading the Gospel and instructing those eager to hear and embrace the message of Christ. He guided them through the foundational tenets of the faith, elaborating on what it looks like to live a transformed life. This mission resonates deeply with Jesus’ great commission: “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20).

Moreover, the phrase Paul uses to describe the faith of the Colossians: “You learned the gospel from Epaphras.” His name becomes more relevant when we consider the essence of his name, suggesting qualities like being ‘lovely’ or ‘devoted.’ Epaphras embodied these virtues as he faithfully shepherded the new believers in Colossae, nurturing their spiritual growth. Epaphras was a skillful preacher. Paul artfully underscores the significance of preaching by posing a few rhetorical questions in Romans: ‘How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!”’ (Romans 10:14-15). This powerful imagery encapsulates the beauty of sharing the Gospel and the vital role Epaphras played in saving souls and bringing the full message of Christ to the Colossian believers.

Paul is poised to share an intimate portrayal and personal testimony regarding Epaphras. Let’s immerse ourselves in the vocabulary, particularly the phrase “our dear fellow slave.” The term for ‘dear’ is ‘agapētos,’ an adjective rooted in the noun ‘agapē,’ which conveys profound, unconditional love. This nuanced vocabulary suggests that Paul is articulating a deep connection: “I have come to love him over time.” His statement is a testament to the enduring bond toward Epaphras, akin to that of a band of brothers united in Christ. Paul implies that the love he holds for Epaphras transcends mere friendship, as it comes from a divine source—the Holy Spirit. This divine love, in turn, has been nurtured within Epaphras by Paul.

The selfless and unconditional nature of Paul’s agapē love, which he bestowed upon Epaphras, is poignantly reflected in his designation of him as “dear fellow slave.” Notably, this term appears only twice in Paul’s epistles to define a fellow worker, servant, or slave; the Greek word ‘sūndoulos’ serves as a unique identifier. If we dissect this term, we find its components: ‘dulos,’ which refers to a slave of the lowest possible station—essentially, a common laborer stripped of rights—and ‘sūn’ pronounced ‘soon,’ meaning ‘fellow’ or ‘co’ as in co-worker. In contemporary discourse, the connotation of the word ‘sūndoulos’ feels charged and triggering, and is often avoided due to its negative historical and social implications. Even within the nuances of the Roman Empire, using such a term to define one’s status was highly sensitive or provocative.

In our modern context, ‘sūndoulos’ might be better interpreted as a person who is ‘radically submitted.’ To be identified as a ‘doulos’ of the Lord Jesus demands a commitment to obedience, which is marked by a fervent readiness to heed Christ’s calling without hesitation. It embodies the declaration, “Whatever you say, Lord, I will do”—an affirmation that requires immense courage and faith! “Lord, wherever you lead me, I will follow” also reflects an unwavering willingness to embrace divine direction and to trust the Lord with the consequences, come what may. This resonates with the obedience of sheep to follow their shepherd—without question—because their very lives hinge on that trust. Our Shepherd, the Lord Jesus, watches over us, loving and caring for us with His Lordship over us.

Additionally, the same term ‘sūndoulos’ is also applied to another notable believer, Tychicus—a dedicated preacher and co-worker within the Church at Colossae. We will delve into Tychicus’s role and contributions in further detail in subsequent discussions, as he also merits further exploration.

Paul’s use of ‘sūndoulos’ also extends to himself, placing himself in the same category as Epaphras. Interestingly, he does not apply this description to Timothy, even though their bond is also close. This distinction suggests that Paul regards Epaphras with a profound and unique affection, most likely heightened by his imprisonment while composing this letter, which is recognized as a prison epistle. Paul likely feels incredibly blessed to count Epaphras among his friends as a co-laborer for Christ.

Although Paul is confined and unable to visit Colossae, his devoted protege Epaphras rises to the occasion with remarkable courage and determination. He embarks on a mission to preach, teach, and disciple those faithful, effectively taking up Paul’s mantle within the community. This undertaking requires not only evangelistic zeal but also a deep commitment to nurturing others’ spiritual growth, demonstrating leadership in various capacities to foster unity and service among believers.

The phrase’ fellow slave’ or ‘sūndoulos’ also encapsulates the dual nature of Epaphras’s role: he is both a co-laborer of Paul in the ministry to the gentiles and a devoted servant of Jesus Christ. This concept of being a slave resonates deeply within Christian teachings. Paul makes this profound connection clear when he writes about Christ in Philippians 2:5-7: “You should have the same attitude toward one another that Christ Jesus had, who, though he existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be grasped, but emptied himself by taking on the form of a slave, by appearing in human likeness, and sharing in our human experience.” Here, Paul highlights the radical humility of Jesus, who, though divine, chose to humble Himself in service to humanity.

By willingly assuming the role of a slave, Jesus unveiled the profound depths of God’s love in an unrestricted and transformative manner. He chose not to rely on His divine power and authority as our Creator while on earth, but instead engaged in an act of self-emptying—often referred to in theological discourse as ‘kenosis.’ This profound gesture illustrates the essence of agapē, a form of love characterized by its unconditional nature.

Moreover, as poignantly articulated in Mark 10:45, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many,” we recognize that Jesus’ mission was fundamentally rooted in sacrificial service as a slave, it wasn’t a power grab, for He was teaching there is a different way to be human. This assertion not only highlights the transformative power of love through the works set before us but also encourages believers to pour themselves out in the same selfless way within their own communities.

This dynamic is further underscored in the phrase that describes him as “a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf.” Epaphras embodies the essence of a dedicated slave for Jesus; for Paul, he is a treasured companion in labor for the Gospel; yet for the Colossians, he is recognized as a ‘faithful minister.’ The term ‘behalf’ in the text garners particular interest, as it is derived from the Greek word ‘huper,’ transliterated as ‘hyper.’ This indicates that Epaphras exemplifies a level of vigilance in his service that goes above and beyond, demonstrating immense dedication and commitment to the believers at Colossae.

By willingly adopting the humble posture of a slave, he immerses himself in loving, prayerful support, discipleship, and encouragement for his community. The term ‘faithful’ carries significant weight, indicating not just reliability but also steadfast loyalty, unwavering dependability, and a resolute commitment to his mission. It characterizes an individual who continually abounds in faith, hope, and love, constantly standing firm amid life’s physical and spiritual challenges.

The life of Epaphras serves as a poignant reminder that genuine faith in Jesus will reciprocally manifest in faithfulness—loving Him, serving Him, and faithfully obeying His teachings. This reciprocal exchange between faith expressed toward the Lord and faithfulness returned serves as a compelling truth: when one truly invests their faith in Christ, the fruits of faithfulness will blossom in their lives.

Delving deeper into the Greek term for ‘minister,’ we find the word ‘diakonos,’ which signifies one who serves and is closely associated with the role of deacon. The foundational concept of a ‘deacon’ revolves around becoming a servant or slave of Christ, wholeheartedly dedicated to serving the Church, which encompasses caring for the needs of the community, fellow ministers, widows, and orphans. Scholars often trace the origin of ‘diakonos’ to the obsolete verb diakō (διάκω), which conveys the idea of “running on errands” or “pursuing diligently.”

In this rich context, Epaphras goes beyond the traditional understanding of a mere deacon in our present Church comprehension, and it certainly does not mean that he is just an ‘errand boy.’ He embodies the role of a Pastor, teacher, and discipler, serving as the ‘under-shepherd’ of the flock, steadfastly and faithfully ministering in Christ’s name. The phrase ‘of Christ’ is articulated in Greek in the genitive case, indicating possession, profoundly underscoring that he is not just a faithful minister, but one who wholly belongs to Christ. This sense of belonging reinforces the earlier term ‘sūndoulos,’ meaning ‘fellow slave,’ painting a vivid picture of Epaphras as a committed minister, wholeheartedly dedicated to the mission of Christ.

Paul himself echoes this pressing truth in his writings: “This letter is from Paul. I am a servant owned by Jesus Christ and a missionary chosen by God to preach His Good News” (Romans 1:1). Additionally, in his letter to the Corinthians, Paul fervently reminds them, “Do you not know that your body is a house of God where the Holy Spirit lives? God gave you His Holy Spirit. Now you belong to God. You do not belong to yourselves” (1 Corinthians 6:19). This profound sense of belonging is crucial for understanding what it means to be a faithful minister of Christ.

My yearning to learn more about Epaphras, as this study invigorates my further exploration, underscores the profound significance of understanding his life and the immeasurable contributions he made during the formative years of the early Church. At the outset, when I focused solely on verses 7-8 of Colossians 1, uncertainty crept in. Would there be ample material to illuminate Epaphras’ character? Would I uncover the insights I sought after? If I engage in heartfelt prayer, would the Holy Spirit’s guidance enrich my understanding, and would there be more to reveal about this young man? To my surprise, I stumbled upon a treasure trove of information far greater than I had anticipated, especially with Epaphras being referenced once again in Colossians chapter 4.

In this later chapter, the narrative unveils a more intimate and poignant depiction of Epaphras. His profound love for the people of Colossae shines through, coupled with his unwavering commitment to fervent prayer. He intercedes on behalf of believers, lifting them up in supplication and embodying the heart of a true spiritual shepherd. But for now, let’s turn our attention to verse 8, which states: “who also told us of your love in the Spirit.” This passage reveals the multifaceted essence of Epaphras; he is not simply a beloved brother or a faithful servant but a vital companion in the ministry of Christ.

Epaphras transcends the roles of pastor and minister; he is a devoted servant/slave of the Lord Jesus, representing the very Spirit of the Church. His relationship with Christ runs deep, marked by unwavering faith and relentless dedication. The phrase “who also told us” carries weight. The ‘us’ refers to Paul and his fellow companions, who are gathered in the confines of a Roman prison. This relational context underscores the bond they share—likely including fellow prisoners or those permitted by the Roman authorities to provide companionship and nourishment, such as Timothy, who would soon bring Paul his coat as he neared the end of his earthly journey.

The term ‘told’ originates from the Greek verb ‘dēloō,’ which conveys the rich connotation of “to make clear, manifest, or make plain.” Thus, when Epaphras conveys the love of the Colossians, he does more than relay information; he actively declares and illuminates, in the Spirit, the essence of their heartfelt affection to the Lord Jesus, and to Paul and his companions. This detail underscores how Epaphras serves as a vital conduit, transmitting the warmth of the believers’ love and spiritual vitality, thereby strengthening the foundational bonds among early Christians and ensuring that their fervent love is neither unnoticed nor unappreciated.

Here is something quite interesting: Epaphras is engaged in a profoundly impactful mediatorial ministry, defining his role as a mediator—someone who actively intercedes, fosters communication, and facilitates reconciliation among individuals with differing perspectives. This role is particularly crucial within the Church, as he bridges the gap between his community’s members and the transformative teachings of the Apostle Paul. Drawing upon the rich and profound experiences he gained during his time in Ephesus under Paul’s expert tutelage, Epaphras has dedicated himself to the spiritual discipleship and education of the believers in Colossae.

Approaching Paul with a deep sense of reverence and purpose, Epaphras expresses in no uncertain terms, “Paul, your teachings about Jesus Christ have radically transformed my life; I have been reborn in Christ. I have eagerly shared this miraculous message with the Church in Colossae. Yet now, even in your imprisonment, I am here to serve you and bring you encouragement, a message of love from the Church in Colossae.” This heartfelt acknowledgment signifies his unwavering commitment—not only to his mentor, Paul, but also to the spiritual welfare of his community—and embodies the essence of a devoted servant leader.

The key message that he brings to Paul is not merely pragmatic—like a detailed financial report of the Church’s contributions or a numerical account of new believers added to the Church rolls—but rather a deeply spiritual revelation, emphasizing the profound love shared among the believers, which Epaphras refers to as “…your love in the Spirit.” This agapē love, characterized by selflessness and unconditional care, radiates from the entire Colossian Church and radiates toward Paul, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Importantly, within the intricate dynamics of a church community, there is a fundamental principle: the character and passion of a preacher or pastor significantly inspire or influence those who follow in their faith. A pastor who embodies a fervent love and reverence for the Word of God will inevitably cultivate followers who mirror that same heartfelt dedication. Similarly, if a pastor exhibits a relentless commitment to evangelism and soul-winning, it is only natural that members of the Church will be inspired to extend their faith and reach out to others, eager to share the joy they have found in Christ.

Embodying the role of a leader in pastoral ministry is not just a responsibility; it is a profound calling that goes far beyond mere proclamations and teachings. The adage, “You don’t just model what you say—you model what you are,” encapsulates this idea, reflecting the truth that our actions carry a weight that often eclipses our words. People, especially children and new believers, are remarkably observant; they absorb the nuances of behavior, attitudes, and emotional expressions exhibited by their leaders like sponges, shaping their understanding of faith and community in the process.

This principle is deeply rooted in Social Learning Theory, which posits that individuals learn significantly through observation and imitation of respected role models. In this light, leaders must recognize their dual role as both teachers and exemplars, knowing that their conduct can profoundly influence those who look up to them. The Apostle Paul thoughtfully articulates this in 1 Corinthians 11:1 when he urges his followers to “be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ.” This invitation extends beyond mere instruction; it is a call to embody a lifestyle shaped by Paul’s example, emphasizing the weighty responsibility leaders bear to represent their faith with authenticity and transparency.

Additionally, Ralph Waldo Emerson encapsulated a complementary truth in the mid-19th century with his timeless maxim, paraphrased over the years: “What you are speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you say.” This thought-provoking statement serves as a reminder that a person’s character and actions reveal their true essence far more than mere words. For leaders, especially in pastoral contexts, authenticity and integrity are not optional but essential qualities that foster a climate of trust and respect among their followers.

In pastoral ministry, this deep call to authenticity stands as a cornerstone of effective leadership and discipleship. It cultivates an environment where faith flourishes and is modeled through genuine example, allowing leaders to guide their communities not just by words or teaching alone, but by a life lived in accordance with Christ’s teachings.

As a result, modeling the irresistible agapē love of Christ becomes a dynamic legacy that inspires others who experience it to embrace it wholeheartedly. In contrast, if a pastor adopts a cynical or critical stance—exhibiting bitterness, negativity, or unresolved grievances—there is a strong likelihood that this disposition will permeate the community, leading to a culture defined by discontent and strife. We attract what we are.

Epaphras stands as a compelling testament to the transformative power of love in ministry, a theme vibrantly articulated by Paul when he joyfully notes, Epaphras, “who also told us of your love in the Spirit.” When love is authentically cultivated and expressed within a church community, it creates a profound atmosphere of unity that compels its members to fervently share the message of Christ’s love that they have experienced with unyielding passion. This enduring message resonates in John 13:35, where Jesus explicitly states, “Everyone will know by this that you are my disciples—if you have love for one another.” This powerful scriptural truth illuminates the deep connection between love and Christian identity, underscoring that genuine relationships rooted in love are essential for nurturing authentic, impactful discipleship within the body of believers.

However, challenges arise when love is disrupted by the distractions and cares of this world, allowing the love of God to be overshadowed. The Devil often seeks to sow discord and create divisions, impeding our connections with one another and undermining the love that binds us. Paul’s declaration of “your love in the Spirit” underscores the timeless nature of this love. Here, the term is not just casual; it employs a rich written preposition highlighted by the Upsilon (µ) character. In the context of early Christianity, this letter carries profound symbolism, representing the “path of life” or the cross. The Greek letter Upsilon (ϒ and µ) also conveys the word ‘Yios’ (Υἱός), meaning “Son,” and serves as a critical component in the *Ichthys* acronym, which stands for the Greek phrase “Iēsous Christos Theou Yios Sōtēr” (Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior).

The fish symbol encapsulates the essence of Jesus’s divine Sonship and His dual nature as both God and Savior. The letter Upsilon—‘ϒ’—serves as a poignant reminder of Jesus as the “only begotten Son” of God, reinforcing His divine identity. The Ichthys acronym, formed by the five letters Iota-Chi-Theta-Upsilon-Sigma (ІХѲϒΣ), embodies a foundational creed for the early Church. During periods of intense persecution, this fish symbol, often intertwined with the Upsilon, became a clandestine marker of identification among Christians, fostering a sense of belonging and security amidst intense scrutiny by Roman soldiers.

Furthermore, the word Spirit in Greek is πνεῦμα (pneuma), which utilizes the ‘μ’ to indicate that we are symbolically speaking of the divine. How might we envision the presence of the Holy Spirit? If we were to imagine the Holy Spirit as a protective bubble, we could depict this passage as believers being enveloped ‘inside the bubble of the Holy Spirit.’ It is “in the Spirit” that they learn to embody such deep love, drawing inspiration from the Holy Spirit Himself, the very source of that divine love. Romans 5:5 captures this sentiment beautifully, proclaiming, “And hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” The King James Version elaborates, stating that “the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts,” suggesting a bountiful outpouring—buckets brimming with love, an immeasurable abundance, all “recklessly poured” into our hearts.

In Galatians 5:23, we find that the fruit of the Spirit manifests in nine specific characteristics, with love taking precedence, serving as the foundation that supports the other fruits. In English translations of the Bible, words that describe the name or nature of God are capitalized; thus, the capital ‘S’ for Spirit reflects His identity as the Holy Spirit of God. He is the complete embodiment of the divine, co-equal and co-eternal with both the Father and the Son. As the personal, active presence of God in the world, He empowers believers, convicts them of sin, provides spiritual gifts, and transforms lives, guiding them to mirror the character of Jesus Christ ever more intimately.

In these two verses, Paul transitions from expounding the profound message of the Gospel to shedding light on the remarkable messenger. He emphasizes, “Let me introduce you to the messenger; his name is Epaphras.” This marks the second notable mention of Epaphras in the book of Colossians, with an additional reference in Philemon, a letter intended for the believers in Colossae, suggesting an intricate web of community ties among these early Christians.

In Chapter 1 of Colossians, we delve deeply into Epaphras’ vital role and character, and in Chapter 4, we revisit him, reinforcing his importance within the text. It is almost as if Epaphras serves as elegant bookends to this epistle, crafting a profound narrative arc that centers around him. His presence encapsulates the letter’s essence, reminding readers of the critical importance of a trustworthy messenger of God. The integrity and authenticity of such a leader is paramount; should he fail to convey the full counsel of God, the very fabric of the Church gathering risks unraveling, leading to chaos and division.

The passage culminates with the touching phrase “…your love in the Spirit,” which unmistakably attests to the Holy Spirit’s deep influence among the believers. Paul’s excitement is palpable as he reflects on the love that permeates the Church that Epaphras had nurtured into being, as well as those Churches established by his other dedicated protégés. This stands in stark contrast to the turmoil faced in Corinth, where discord and a lack of love thrived, or among the Galatians, who were ensnared in destructive rivalry. In beautiful contrast, the Colossians are characterized by their authentic love and unity, which fills Paul with immense joy.

Interestingly, the Holy Spirit is referenced only twice in the letter to the Colossians—once here in verse 8 and again in Chapter 2, verse 5. This is particularly striking against the backdrop of Paul’s other epistles, where the Spirit appears prominently: 15 times in Ephesians, 4 times in Philippians, and 18 times in Galatians, often because those congregations were struggling with walking in the flesh. The infrequent references in Colossians may suggest that the Holy Spirit prefers to work quietly, subtly influencing the hearts and lives of believers. Of the two mentions, one likely pertains to the human Spirit, while the other, in verse 8, refers definitively to the Holy Spirit. The Spirit does not yearn for recognition; rather, His sacred purpose is to magnify Jesus, ensuring that all honor and glory flow to the Lord Jesus Christ alone.

Moreover, the geographical landscape surrounding Colossae includes the notable churches of Laodicea and Hierapolis. Although historical records aren’t definitive, Epaphras is generally esteemed as the likely founder and early pastor of the Church in ancient Laodicea, credited with heralding the Gospel to the Lycus Valley. He may also have played a pastoral role in Hierapolis, where he is mentioned in Colossians 4:15, serving as a leader in both faith communities. The extent of Epaphras’ influence appears quite expansive, potentially leading to the establishment and flourishing of all three churches in this region.

What an incredible man of God Epaphras has become amid all this complexity. Paul’s perspective is one of genuine admiration rather than jealousy; he truly cherishes Timothy, Silas, Barnabas, Apollos, and particularly Epaphras. Each of these individuals, whom Paul personally trained and mentored with care, brings their unique strengths and passionate commitment to spreading the Gospel. In Paul’s eyes, none are considered subordinates; he loves and respects every person engaged in the sacred endeavor of spreading the Gospel. As fervent servants/slaves of Jesus Christ, we too are called to embody this same Spirit of love and compassion, being diligent slaves of our Savior’s transformative message.

Stephen Barnett