What Old Testament examples reflect the teamwork seen in Colossians 4:11? Setting the Stage: Colossians 4:11 “ And Jesus, who is called Justus, also greets you. These are the only Jews among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me.” Paul highlights two big ideas: • “fellow workers for the kingdom” – people shoulder-to-shoulder in God’s mission • “a comfort to me” – teammates who refresh and steady one another The Old Testament overflows with the same pattern of kingdom teamwork. Team-Lift on the Hill: Moses, Aaron, and Hur • Exodus 17:12 – “Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on each side—so that his hands remained steady until the sun went down.” • Joshua fights below, Moses intercedes above, and two faithful brothers keep those tired arms raised. • Picture-perfect of Paul’s “comfort” and “fellow workers”: different roles, one victory. Spirit-Filled Craftsmanship: Bezalel, Oholiab, and the Artisans • Exodus 31:2-6 – God says, “I have filled him with the Spirit of God… and I have appointed Oholiab… Moreover, I have given ability to all the skilled craftsmen.” • The tabernacle rises because gifted servants combine skill, calling, and obedience—just like Paul’s small band advancing the gospel. Faith Against the Majority: Joshua and Caleb • Numbers 14:6-9 – the two faithful spies urge Israel, “Do not fear the people of the land… the LORD is with us.” • Their united voice steadies a wavering nation, echoing the way Justus and the others heartened Paul in a hostile time. Prophet and General: Deborah and Barak • Judges 4:8-9 – Barak tells Deborah, “If you will go with me, I will go,” and she answers, “I will surely go with you.” • Their partnership blends prophetic insight with military action—different giftings, one deliverance. Covenant Friendship: Jonathan and David’s Mighty Men • 1 Samuel 23:16 – “Jonathan… strengthened his hand in God.” • 2 Samuel 23 lists “David’s mighty men” who rallied to the king-in-waiting. • Loyal comrades sustain David much as Paul’s Jewish coworkers strengthen him behind prison walls. Rebuilders After Exile: Ezra, Nehemiah, and the People • Nehemiah 4:6 – “The people worked with all their heart.” • Ezra 6:14 shows prophets, elders, and craftsmen “building and prospering.” • Shared labor, shared courage—walls and hearts rise together, mirroring the kingdom-construction mindset of Colossians 4:11. Threads That Tie It All Together • One Mission: every scene advances God’s redemptive plan. • Diverse Roles: warriors, prophets, craftsmen, leaders—each indispensable. • Mutual Strengthening: teammates lift weary hands, steady fearful hearts, and embolden faith. • God-Centered Success: victory, craftsmanship, conquest, or rebuilding happens only because “the LORD is with us” (Numbers 14:9). Colossians 4:11 simply continues the storyline: God’s people still link arms, blend gifts, and bring comfort as they push His kingdom forward—just as they always have. |
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