Lexical Summary Archippos: Archippus Original Word: Ἀρχιππος Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Archippus. From arche and hippos; horse-ruler; Archippus, a Christian -- Archippus. see GREEK arche see GREEK hippos NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom archó and hippos Definition "horse-ruler," Archippus, a Christian at Colossae NASB Translation Archippus (2). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 751: ἌρχιπποςἌρχιππος (Chandler § 308), Ἀρχιππου, ὁ (i. e. master of the horse), Archippus, a certain Christian at Colossae: Colossians 4:17; Philemon 1:2. (Cf. B. D. under the word; Lightfoot on Col. and Philemon i., p. 308f.) Topical Lexicon Name and IdentityArchippus appears twice in the New Testament. Both references place him within Paul’s circle of trusted coworkers and situate him in Colossae. The name, common in Greek culture, combines imagery of a cavalry leader with the responsibilities of Christian ministry, hinting at spiritual vigilance and disciplined service. Scriptural Appearances 1. Colossians 4:17 – “Tell Archippus: ‘See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord.’” Historical Context Colossae lay in the Lycus Valley of Asia Minor, a region evangelized through Paul’s extended ministry based in Ephesus (Acts 19:10). House churches formed the nucleus of Christian witness there, and the assembly in Philemon’s home became an influential hub. Archippus is listed with Philemon and Apphia—likely husband and wife—suggesting a familial leadership team that hosted and shepherded the congregation. Relationship with Paul Calling Archippus “our fellow soldier” (Philemon 1:2) places him among the band of men such as Epaphras, Timothy, and Tychicus who labored sacrificially beside Paul. The military metaphor underscores shared hardships and steadfastness under spiritual opposition (2 Timothy 2:3–4). Ministry Charge Paul’s directive in Colossians 4:17 singles out Archippus for public exhortation: “See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord.” The verb “complete” implies perseverance to finish what God assigned. Whether his task involved pastoral oversight of Colossae or itinerant preaching in the Lycus Valley, the command highlights accountability before both the congregation and the Lord. Possible Roles • Pastor of the Colossian church during Epaphras’s absence (Colossians 1:7–8). Early church tradition (e.g., Apostolic Constitutions 7.46) later lists him as bishop of Laodicea, reflecting recognition of enduring service. Theological Themes Perseverance in Calling – Archippus embodies the biblical principle that divine assignments must be pursued to completion (2 Timothy 4:5). Shared Spiritual Warfare – The title “fellow soldier” reminds believers that ministry occurs in contested territory (Ephesians 6:10–18). House-Church Leadership – His inclusion in a household salutation illustrates how early Christian families partnered in gospel work (Romans 16:5). Practical Lessons for Believers 1. Finish the Work – Spiritual gifts and opportunities come with responsibility; believers are to steward them faithfully until the end. Legacy Though only named twice, Archippus stands as a model of steadfast service challenged to full obedience. His brief mention testifies that individual faithfulness, even when largely hidden from history, contributes to the advance of the gospel and the strengthening of Christ’s body. Forms and Transliterations Αρχιππω Ἀρχίππῳ αρχισιτοποιόν αρχισιτοποιός αρχισιτοποιού αρχισιτοποιώ αρχιστράτηγον αρχιστράτηγος αρχιστρατηγού αρχιστρατήγου αρχιστρατήγω Archippo Archippō Archíppoi ArchíppōiLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel TextsEnglishman's Concordance Colossians 4:17 N-DMSGRK: καὶ εἴπατε Ἀρχίππῳ Βλέπε τὴν NAS: Say to Archippus, Take heed KJV: say to Archippus, Take heed INT: And say to Archippus Take heed to the Philemon 1:2 N-DMS |
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