What is the meaning of Colossians 4:11? Jesus, who is called Justus The name “Jesus” (Yeshua) was common among Jews, so this brother is also identified by his Latin surname, “Justus,” distinguishing him from the Lord Jesus. Paul’s mention tells us he is: •A Jewish believer who stands with the apostle during imprisonment, as did Aristarchus and Mark (Colossians 4:10–11; Acts 10:45). •A reminder that ordinary Christians with ordinary names can have extraordinary impact, similar to Titius Justus who sheltered Paul in Corinth (Acts 18:7). •An example of gospel reach: a man with both a Jewish and Roman name serving the same Lord (Acts 22:28). also sends greetings Paul regularly passes along greetings because they affirm real family ties in Christ. By including Justus’ greeting he: •Strengthens unity that spans miles (Romans 16:3–16; 1 Corinthians 16:19–20). •Shows that even in chains he is surrounded by caring believers (Philippians 1:7). •Models a culture of encouragement the church is still called to practice (1 Thessalonians 5:11; 1 Peter 5:13). These are the only Jews among my fellow workers Together with Mark and Aristarchus, Justus is one of “only” three Jewish coworkers present. This highlights: •The cost many Jewish believers faced in identifying with Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles (Galatians 2:7–9). •The harmony of Jew and Gentile laboring side by side, fulfilling the vision of “one new man” (Ephesians 2:14–16; Colossians 3:11). •The faithfulness of a remnant that God always preserves for His purposes (Romans 11:5). for the kingdom of God Their labor is defined not by personal ambition but by God’s reign. This phrase reminds us: •Every act of service—visible or hidden—advances Christ’s rule (Matthew 6:33; Acts 28:31). •Kingdom work is measured by faithfulness, not numbers (1 Samuel 14:6; Luke 12:32). •Our shared mission eclipses ethnic or cultural differences (Philippians 1:27). and they have been a comfort to me Even the bold apostle needed encouragement. These men provided: •Companionship during imprisonment, much like Onesiphorus “refreshed” Paul (2 Timothy 1:16–17; 2 Corinthians 7:6). •Practical aid—food, writing materials, advocacy—fulfilling “bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). •A reminder of God’s covenant faithfulness to Israel, buoying Paul’s heart amid hardship (Romans 11:1). summary Colossians 4:11 spotlights an otherwise obscure believer whose steady presence mattered. His greeting, his Jewish identity, his kingdom-focused service, and his comforting companionship all display how God builds His church through ordinary people. Whatever our background or role, we too can be fellow workers who encourage others and further the kingdom of God. |
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