Colossians 4

July 29, 2022

“Tell Archippus: ‘See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord.’” (v17)

We don’t know much about this guy, Archippus. He’s only mentioned one other time in the Bible - in Philemon 2 - as Paul’s “fellow soldier.” Many think he is the son of Philemon, who owned the home that hosted the church at Colosse. Whoever he was, he receives a very simple, straightforward admonition from Paul - that really applies to all of us: “complete the ministry you have received from the Lord” (v17). In the previous chapter, Paul says that whatever work the Lord has given us to do, we are to do it “with all our heart” (3:23). For Paul, our faith is not just about thinking a certain way; it’s also about working a certain way: seeking to do well whatever the Lord has given us to do.

Lord, I praise You for designing us to reflect You by doing our work well. Forgive me for the times I resist or resent the work You’ve given me, because of my laziness or a desire for different work - that I think will be more satisfying (or easier). Like Archippus, I receive Your admonition to “complete the ministry I’ve received from You” (v17) - at home, at Trinity, and in all the responsibilities You’ve entrusted to me. Empower me by Your Spirit to do all of my work as unto You.

— Pastor Joshua Brooks

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Use the following steps to guide your daily time with the Lord…

Start with prayer. Ask God to open your heart to help you understand and receive His Word.
Read and observe the passage carefully. As needed, read a second Bible version to help with understanding.
➡️ What does it say?
What does this passage teach me about God? What does it say about my sinful nature and my need for God’s grace? How does this passage point to Jesus?
➡️ What am I going to do about it?
Does this passage include a promise to claim, an action/attitude to avoid/embrace, or a principle to apply? How can this truth apply to my life? What could my next step be? How can I share this with others? Is there a verse or section of Scripture I need to memorize?