Colossians 4:17
And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Paul doesn't just tell Archippus to do his job; he instructs the entire church to tell him. This means Archippus's ministry wasn't just his private concern, but a communal responsibility, emphasizing that leaders need encouragement and accountability from the body they serve. The word "fulfill" carries a sense of completeness, urging Archippus—and by extension, all leaders—to not just perform duties, but to pour their whole selves into the service entrusted to them.
This verse appears at the very end of Paul's letter, tucked within his final greetings and instructions to the Colossian church. He has just spoken about his own bonds and encouraged prayer for him and his ministry. Now, he shifts focus to a specific individual, Archippus, urging the church to deliver a message of exhortation to him regarding his service.
Did Paul really scold Archippus? Discover the true intention behind this seemingly stern instruction.
Paul’s words to Archippus – 'See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord' – can sound like a stern rebuke. Some commentators thought Archippus was falling short.
However, many scholars suggest a kinder interpretation: Paul was likely encouraging Archippus rather than criticizing him.
What does 'ministry' really mean? Unpack the profound difference between a position and a purpose.
The Greek word for 'ministry' here is diakonia. It’s not about having power or control, but about humble service.
Understand the original words
diakonia · Greek Noun
Refers to the specific service, task, or assigned duty given by God to a believer. It carries the sense of stewardship and responsibility in carrying out Christ's work in the world.
This verse is a direct instruction from Paul, penned during his Roman imprisonment, to Archippus, a fellow minister likely serving the church in Colossae or a nearby area. The instruction to 'fulfill the ministry' suggests a need for diligence and faithfulness, possibly in response to challenges faced in that region or as a general exhortation to ensure all duties were completed.
c. AD 60
Paul's Ministry in Ephesus
Paul spent a significant amount of time in Ephesus during his third missionary journey, establishing a strong church and teaching believers.
c. AD 62
Paul Imprisoned in Rome
Paul was likely under house arrest in Rome, where he wrote several epistles, including Colossians, Ephesians, Philippians, and Philemon.
c. AD 62— this verse
Epistles to Philemon and Colossians Written
Paul sends the Epistles to Philemon and the Colossians together via Tychicus and Onesimus, likely during his Roman imprisonment.
c. AD 62
Archippus Mentioned in Philemon
Archippus is referred to as a 'fellow soldier' by Paul in the Epistle to Philemon, indicating a close relationship and likely a role in ministry.
This passage speaks about not neglecting a spiritual gift that was given through prophecy, directly paralleling the idea of a received ministry that needs to be fulfilled.
2 Timothy 4:5Paul instructs Timothy to 'do the work of an evangelist' and to 'discharge all the duties of your ministry,' echoing the exhortation to Archippus to fully carry out his received calling.
Romans 12:8This verse highlights the importance of leadership gifts, such as teaching or mercy, to be exercised with diligence, reinforcing the idea that any ministry received must be actively and fully employed.
Matthew 25:14-30The parable of the talents powerfully illustrates the responsibility of using and increasing what has been entrusted to us, serving as a foundational principle for fulfilling any ministry or gift given by the Lord.
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…
calvinColossians 4:14-18: "Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you."
The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen.
Salutatio, mea manu Pauli. Memores estote vinculorum meorum. Gratia vobiscum. Amen.
Written from Rome to the Colossians by Tychicus and Onesimus.
Missa e Roma per Tychicum et Onesimum.
- Luke saluteth you. I do not agree with those who understand this to be Luke the Evangelist; for I am of opinion that he was too well known to…
Paul doesn't just tell Archippus to do his job; he instructs the entire church to tell him. This means Archippus's ministry wasn't just his private concern, but a communal responsibility, emphasizing that leaders need encouragement and accountability from the body they serve. The word "fulfill" carries a sense of completeness, urging Archippus—and by extension, all leaders—to not just perform duties, but to pour their whole selves into the service entrusted to them.
This verse appears at the very end of Paul's letter, tucked within his final greetings and instructions to the Colossian church. He has just spoken about his own bonds and encouraged prayer for him and his ministry. Now, he shifts focus to a specific individual, Archippus, urging the church to deliver a message of exhortation to him regarding his service.
This verse appears at the very end of Paul's letter, tucked within his final greetings and instructions to the Colossian church. He has just spoken about his own bonds and encouraged prayer for him and his ministry. Now, he shifts focus to a specific individual, Archippus, urging the church to deliver a message of exhortation to him regarding his service.
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This perspective challenges any idea of ministry as a mere job title. It’s a sacred trust, a demanding yet deeply rewarding service empowered by Christ himself.
c. AD 62
Instruction to Archippus
Paul, through the letter to the Colossians, directly addresses Archippus, urging him to faithfully complete the ministry he received in the Lord.
"And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.”" — Paul doesn't just tell Archippus to do his job; he instructs the entire church to tell him. This means Archippus's ministry wasn't just his private concern, but a communal responsibility, emphasizing…
