As I was studying the book of Colossians the name Epaphras was mentioned. Do you know of Epaphras? Not an immediate name we go to when thinking of characters of the Bible, but worthy of naming in this holy book, which gives us insight into the qualities and characteristics that God values and wants us to know of. There are only 66 God-breathed books and his name is mentioned with careful purpose.
Epaphras was a man who served and served well. His mentions are few in the Bible, but his reputation and the way he served is such a wonderful example to us, God’s chosen people. Epaphras is mentioned three times in the New Testament, twice in Colossians and once in Philemon, he was a believer in Christ. Epaphras served alongside Paul in the things of Christ. He is referred to “as our dear fellow servant,” “a servant of Christ Jesus,” as well as naming the godly attribute of prayer; “always wrestling in prayer for you.”
As a member of Colossae himself, Epaphras was committed to the things of God. As read in chapter one, he not only ministered the gospel to his community but reported the love of the spirit in the community back to Paul as an encouragement of the faith. He had initially met Paul in prison in Rome shortly before this letter was composed and delivered.
Key Verses:
Colossians 1:15-16, “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by Him and for Him.”
Colossians 2:8, “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.”
Colossians 3:12-13, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Colossians 4:5-6, “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.