How can we emulate Epaphras's zeal for others' spiritual well-being today? Epaphras: A Snapshot of Selfless Concern “ For I testify about him that he is working hard for you and for those in Laodicea and Hierapolis ” (Colossians 4:13). Epaphras labored “hard”—literally agonizomai, to strive like an athlete—for believers he might never see again. His model gives us a clear roadmap. Marks of Epaphras-Style Zeal • Tireless intercession: “always wrestling in prayer for you” (Colossians 4:12). • Gospel faithfulness: he first “made known to us your love in the Spirit” (Colossians 1:7-8). • Regional vision: concern stretched beyond one congregation (Colossians 4:13). • Christ-centered goal: that each believer would “stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God” (Colossians 4:12). Practical Steps to Follow His Example Today 1. Pray with Athlete-Level Intensity – Schedule focused times to “wrestle” for specific people. – Keep a living list; note answered prayers to fuel more prayer (Philippians 1:3-4). 2. Champion Spiritual Maturity, Not Just Comfort – When you encourage someone, aim past temporary relief toward growth in holiness (Hebrews 10:24). – Share Scripture promises and warnings lovingly (Acts 20:31). 3. Broaden Your Circle of Concern – Adopt a neighboring church, missionary, or campus ministry; intercede and communicate regularly. – Use technology for global updates, remembering Paul’s chains never limited Epaphras’s zeal (Colossians 4:18). 4. Serve Behind the Scenes – Volunteer for unseen tasks—meal trains, childcare, facility care—so others are freed for discipleship (1 Peter 4:10-11). – Give anonymously when possible (Matthew 6:3-4). 5. Prioritize Gospel Clarity – When counseling or teaching, keep Christ’s finished work central (1 Corinthians 2:2). – Guard against subtle drift by measuring all ideas against Scripture (Acts 17:11). 6. Cultivate Perseverance – Expect fatigue; Epaphras “worked hard” yet kept going. – Lean on the Spirit’s power promised in Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good.” Scriptural Encouragements That Fuel Zeal • 1 Thessalonians 5:11—“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” • Philippians 2:3-4—“In humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests.” • Romans 15:30—Paul urges believers to “strive together with me in prayers to God.” • 2 Timothy 2:10—Paul endures “everything for the sake of the elect.” The same motive drove Epaphras. Putting It All Together Zeal like Epaphras’s isn’t flashy; it’s daily, prayer-saturated, and others-focused. By intertwining fervent intercession, sacrificial service, and gospel fidelity, we step into the same arena of spiritual labor—and God will use that labor to mature His people until, like Epaphras hoped, they “stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God.” |
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