What is the meaning of Colossians 4:12?

Epaphras, who is one of you

“Epaphras, who is one of you…” (Colossians 4:12)

• Paul reminds the Colossians that Epaphras comes from their own congregation. That local connection builds trust and shows how God raises up servants from within a church family (see Colossians 1:7; Philemon 1:23).

• His example encourages us to recognize and celebrate God’s work through ordinary believers in our midst (Acts 20:28; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13).

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and a servant of Christ Jesus

• Epaphras is labeled a “servant,” emphasizing that his primary allegiance is to Christ, not to personal ambition (Romans 1:1; Mark 10:45).

• True ministry flows from willing submission to the Lord (Ephesians 6:6-7). Our titles or roles matter far less than faithful obedience to Jesus.

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sends you greetings

• Paul often relays greetings to remind believers they belong to a larger, interconnected body (Romans 16:3-6; 1 Corinthians 16:19-20).

• Such greetings model Christian warmth and unity across distance (Philippians 1:3-5). Even separated by miles, the saints stand together in Christ.

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He is always wrestling in prayer for you

“Always wrestling” pictures intense, persistent intercession (Luke 22:44; Colossians 2:1).

• Prayer is spiritual labor, not casual routine (James 5:16-18).

• Epaphras shows that unseen battles on our knees are vital to the church’s health (Ephesians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:17).

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so that you may stand mature

• His prayer goal is their maturity—steady, fully-grown faith (Ephesians 4:13-15; Hebrews 5:14).

• Spiritual growth is measured by stability in truth and Christlike character, not by outward success (Philippians 3:15; 2 Peter 3:18).

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and fully assured in the full will of God

• Epaphras asks God to give them complete confidence in His will (Romans 12:2; Hebrews 10:22-23).

• Assurance springs from knowing God’s revealed Word and trusting His sovereign plan (1 John 5:14-15; Psalm 119:105).

• When believers grasp God’s will, they live courageously and fruitfully (Colossians 1:9-10).

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summary

Colossians 4:12 spotlights Epaphras as a hometown servant whose tireless intercession aims at the Colossians’ maturity and assurance in God’s will. The verse challenges us to value local leaders, labor fervently in prayer, pursue spiritual growth, and rest confidently in the Lord’s purposes—just as Scripture, accurate and true, calls every believer to do.