Topical Encyclopedia Epaphras is a notable figure in the New Testament, recognized for his fervent zeal and dedication to the early Christian church. He is mentioned specifically in the Pauline Epistles, where his commitment to the Gospel and his fervent prayers for the believers are highlighted.Biblical References: 1. Colossians 1:7-8 : "You learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, and who also informed us of your love in the Spirit." In this passage, Epaphras is acknowledged as a faithful minister of Christ, indicating his role in teaching and spreading the Gospel. His dedication is evident as he serves as a conduit of spiritual love and truth to the Colossian church. 2. Colossians 4:12-13 : "Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, so that you may stand mature and fully assured in the full will of God. For I testify about him that he is working hard for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis." Here, Epaphras is depicted as a man of intense prayer, constantly interceding for the believers. His zeal is not passive but active, as he "wrestles" in prayer, demonstrating a deep concern for the spiritual maturity and assurance of the church members. 3. Philemon 1:23 : "Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings." This brief mention in the letter to Philemon underscores Epaphras's commitment to the Gospel, even to the point of imprisonment. His willingness to suffer for Christ further illustrates his holy zeal and dedication. Character and Ministry: Epaphras is portrayed as a man of deep spiritual fervor and commitment. His zeal is characterized by his unwavering dedication to prayer and his pastoral concern for the spiritual well-being of the churches in Colossae, Laodicea, and Hierapolis. His ministry is marked by a selfless devotion to Christ and His church, serving as a faithful minister and a fellow servant alongside the Apostle Paul. Theological Significance: Epaphras's example serves as a model of holy zeal for contemporary believers. His life demonstrates the importance of prayer, pastoral care, and perseverance in the face of adversity. His commitment to the spiritual growth and maturity of the church highlights the vital role of intercessory prayer and the impact of a life wholly devoted to the service of Christ. Epaphras's zeal is not merely an emotional fervor but a deep, abiding commitment to the will of God and the advancement of His kingdom. His life and ministry exemplify the transformative power of the Gospel and the call to live a life of holy zeal in service to the Lord. Torrey's Topical Textbook Colossians 4:12,13Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, salutes you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Ministry and Prayer Prayer and Fervency The Danger of Deviating from Divine Institutions. In Rome The Way from Sin to Perfect Salvation. Colossians iv. 12, 13 The Supremacy of Christ Letter Lx. To Heliodorus. The Necessity of Actual Grace The Epistles of Paul. Resources Should wine or grape juice be used for communion? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Paul in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org How many times did Jesus cleanse the temple? Why did He cleanse the temple? | GotQuestions.org Zeal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: David Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Elijah Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Israelites Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Jehoiada Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Jehu Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Josiah Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Moses and Levites Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Phinehas Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Samuel Religious Zeal without Knowledge Religious Zeal: Andrew and Philip Religious Zeal: Exemplified by Paul Religious Zeal: General Scriptures Concerning Religious Zeal: Paul and Barnabas Religious Zeal: Peter Rebuking Jesus Religious Zeal: The Healed Deaf-Mute Man Religious Zeal: The Restored Leper Religious Zeal: Two Blind Men Proclaiming the Miracle of Healing Zeal: Provokes Others to do Good Zeal: should be Exhibited for the Glory of God Zeal: should be Exhibited for the Welfare of Saints Zeal: should be Exhibited in Contending for the Faith Zeal: should be Exhibited in Desiring the Salvation of Others Zeal: should be Exhibited in Missionary Labours Zeal: should be Exhibited in Spirit Zeal: should be Exhibited in Well-Doing Zeal: should be Exhibited: Against Idolatry Zeal: Sometimes not According to Knowledge Zeal: Sometimes Wrongly Directed Zeal: Ungodly Men Sometimes Pretend To Related Terms |
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