In what ways can we be "fellow workers" like those mentioned in Colossians 4:10? Setting the Scene Colossians 4:10–11 introduces us to Aristarchus, Mark, and Justus—men Paul calls “fellow workers for the kingdom of God.” They weren’t apostles like Paul, but ordinary believers who rolled up their sleeves in practical, costly ways. Their example shows that “fellow worker” is not a title reserved for the few; it’s an invitation to every follower of Christ. What Scripture Says about Fellow Workers • Colossians 4:11: “These are my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, who have been a comfort to me.” • 3 John 8: “Therefore we ought to support such men, so that we may become fellow workers with the truth.” • 1 Corinthians 3:9: “For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.” In each case, the term describes believers who actively partner in gospel work—spiritually, materially, and relationally. Characteristics of a Fellow Worker • Loyalty in trials (Aristarchus shared Paul’s imprisonment). • Willingness to reconcile and restart (Mark once failed, Acts 13:13; later restored, 2 Timothy 4:11). • Comforting presence (their very company strengthened Paul). • Single-minded focus on “the kingdom of God,” not personal advancement. Practical Ways to Live it Out Today 1. Stand with suffering believers – Write, visit, or fund relief for persecuted brothers and sisters (Hebrews 13:3). 2. Restore the stumbling – Like Barnabas with Mark, champion repentant believers instead of sidelining them (Galatians 6:1). 3. Shoulder everyday ministry tasks – Teach children, set up chairs, manage church tech—quiet jobs that free others to preach (Romans 16:3-4). 4. Give financially and materially – Support missionaries, church planters, and benevolence in tangible ways (Philippians 4:15-17). 5. Offer relational comfort – Be present in hospitals, funeral homes, or living rooms with gentle words and Scripture (2 Corinthians 1:4). 6. Pray strategically and persistently – Labor in prayer as Epaphras did (Colossians 4:12-13), knowing unseen intercession fuels visible fruit. 7. Use vocational skills for the gospel – Lawyers, coders, farmers, artists—every skill becomes a kingdom tool when surrendered to Christ (Exodus 35:30-34; 1 Peter 4:10). Encouragement from Other Passages • Romans 16 lists ordinary names Paul calls “workers in Christ.” God remembers every unnoticed act. • Luke 8:2-3 highlights women who “supported [Jesus] out of their own means.” Resource-sharing is holy work. • Acts 11:29-30 records churches sending relief to Judea—early proof that generosity knits believers together as coworkers. Taking the Next Step Fellow workers aren’t super-Christians; they’re faithful Christians. Whether you’re sharing a prison cell, a prayer list, or a paycheck, the kingdom advances when believers link arms. Look around, ask what needs doing, and do it “heartily, as for the Lord and not for men” (Colossians 3:23). |
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