Colossians 4:11
and Jesus who is called Justus. These are the only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Paul uses the word for "comfort" here which, in ancient times, was often used in medical contexts for soothing relief, highlighting how these Jewish companions provided a deeply needed balm to his weary spirit amidst his trials. He specifically calls them "fellow workers" not just generally, but as those of the circumcision, meaning they were Jewish believers who, unlike many others at the time, chose to partner with him in advancing God's kingdom rather than opposing him.
Paul is concluding his letter with personal greetings and practical instructions, distinguishing between those who are true companions in the faith and others. He specifically highlights Jesus Justus alongside Aristarchus and Mark, noting that these are the only Jewish believers among his closest collaborators who have offered him genuine comfort and support. This stands in contrast to some other Jewish individuals or groups who may have been working against him, adding to his difficulties while he's imprisoned.
Ever feel like you have to choose between different parts of your identity? This New Testament figure navigated a similar tension.
The verse mentions "Jesus who is called Justus." This tells us a lot about cultural integration in the ancient world.
A Name for Every World
This dual naming highlights that faith in Christ didn't erase one's cultural background but often transformed it, allowing for a rich, integrated identity.
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Paul faced significant opposition, even from some within the Jewish community. So why were these specific Jewish believers such a source of strength?
Paul describes Jesus Justus, Aristarchus, and Marcus as "only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God" who "have been a comfort to me." This statement carries weight, especially considering the context.
The Challenge of Opposition
The Source of Comfort
What does it truly mean to be a 'fellow worker' for God's kingdom, especially when our backgrounds are so different?
The term 'fellow workers' (Greek: synergos) is used by Paul to describe those who labor alongside him in the gospel. It speaks of partnership, mutual effort, and shared purpose.
More Than Just Help
Understand the original words
peritomē · Greek Noun
A Hebrew term literally meaning 'to cut,' used in the New Testament to designate Jewish believers who were distinct from the Gentile converts in the early church.
basileia tou Theou · Greek Noun
The sovereign rule and reign of God; it refers both to the spiritual reality of God's authority in the hearts of believers and the future, visible manifestation of His kingdom.
The mention of 'Jesus called Justus' and 'those of the circumcision' highlights the significant presence and contribution of Jewish believers within the Roman church, particularly during Paul's confinement. This context sheds light on the unique pressures and comforts these believers provided to Paul amidst potential opposition from other Jewish groups.
c. AD 30-33
Jesus' Crucifixion and Resurrection
The foundational events of Christianity occur, leading to the establishment of the early Church.
c. AD 44
Herod Agrippa I's Death
King Herod Agrippa I, a Jewish ruler, dies in Caesarea. His reign and death impacted the early Jewish Christian community.
c. AD 49
Claudius Expels Jews from Rome
Emperor Claudius banishes Jews from Rome due to disturbances. This likely scattered many Jewish Christians, including potentially Justus.
c. AD 57-59— this verse
Paul's Imprisonment in Rome
Paul is imprisoned in Rome, likely under house arrest. During this time, he writes letters, including Colossians, to various churches.
c. AD 60-62
Paul's Ministry Continues in Rome
Despite imprisonment, Paul continues to preach and minister, receiving visitors and continuing correspondence.
This passage highlights a similar situation where some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, contrasting sharply with the genuine support Paul received from his true fellow workers like Jesus Justus.
Romans 16:3This verse mentions Priscilla and Aquila, who are also called 'fellow workers' of Paul, illustrating the importance of supportive partners in ministry for the apostle.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4Paul describes God as the 'Father of mercies and God of all comfort,' underscoring the theme of comfort that is so central to the support these men provided him in his ministry.
Acts 18:2-3This passage introduces Priscilla and Aquila, who, like Jesus Justus, were Jewish believers and were instrumental in Paul's ministry, showing a pattern of vital support from Jewish Christians.
henryColossians 4:10-18: "Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)"
4:10-18 Paul had differed with Barnabas, on the account of this Mark, yet he is not only reconciled, but recommends him to the churches; an example of a truly Christian and forgiving spirit. If men have been guilty of a fault, it must not always be remembered against them. We must forget as well as forgive. The apostl…
vincentColossians 4:11: "And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me."
Jesus JustusNot mentioned elsewhere. The only one of these names not mentioned in the salutations of the Epistle to Philemon.Have been a comfort (ἐγενήθησαν παρηγορία)Παρηγορία comfort, only here in the New Testament. Properly, an address, an exhortation: an exhortation for the purpose of encouraging: hence a comfort.…
Paul uses the word for "comfort" here which, in ancient times, was often used in medical contexts for soothing relief, highlighting how these Jewish companions provided a deeply needed balm to his weary spirit amidst his trials. He specifically calls them "fellow workers" not just generally, but as those of the circumcision, meaning they were Jewish believers who, unlike many others at the time, chose to partner with him in advancing God's kingdom rather than opposing him.
Paul is concluding his letter with personal greetings and practical instructions, distinguishing between those who are true companions in the faith and others. He specifically highlights Jesus Justus alongside Aristarchus and Mark, noting that these are the only Jewish believers among his closest collaborators who have offered him genuine comfort and support. This stands in contrast to some other Jewish individuals or groups who may have been working against him, adding to his difficulties while he's imprisoned.
Paul is concluding his letter with personal greetings and practical instructions, distinguishing between those who are true companions in the faith and others. He specifically highlights Jesus Justus alongside Aristarchus and Mark, noting that these are the only Jewish believers among his closest collaborators who have offered him genuine comfort and support. This stands in contrast to some other Jewish individuals or groups who may have been working against him, adding to his difficulties while he's imprisoned.
"and Jesus who is called Justus. These are the only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me." — Paul uses the word for "comfort" here which, in ancient times, was often used in medical contexts for soothing relief, highlighting how these Jewish companions provided a deeply needed balm to his we…
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