The Dynamic Gospel

I wish we knew more about Epaphras. All we know is in Colossians and Philemon, and it isn't much. Paul had never been to Colossae; it was Epaphras who brought the gospel to these people. We tend to think of Paul working alone to spread the gospel, or at least in partnership with a few people who traveled with him, like Barnabas and Silas, Timothy and Luke, but here we have a glimpse of his strategic planning. He calls Epaphras his dear fellow servant who works on his behalf. What lies behind that interesting statement?

Epaphras came back with a good report of their faith and love. There were problems in Colossae, which Paul will address later in the letter. Here, he follows up Epaphras' evangelism with his own prayers.

Look at how he prays for these Christians he has never met.

How do we pray for our friends? We probably pray for their health, for the resolution of family problems. We pray that God will keep them safe. We pray that they may have fun on vacation. that God will be "there" for them (what does that mean?), that they will find a good job, etc, etc.

Now look at Paul's prayer. He prays continually for the Colossians, that they will know God's will, be filled with wisdom, full of the Spirit, and that they will please him by how they live. He prays that they would grow in their knowledge of God. Interestingly, he doesn't ask for their problems (persecution?) to go away, but rather that they would meet them with patience and endurance, and—wait for it—joy and thanksgiving.

There's a lot to learn here. I was thinking about this just the other day. A few of us were praying for people in our church (yes, including that they would have fun on vacation), for healing, and other concerns. But Paul talks about suffering, too. It produces endurance and character (Romans 5:3–5; James 1:2–4; 1 Peter 1:3–9). He even wanted to share Jesus' sufferings (Philippians 3:10).

Yes, we should by all means pray for healing and prosperity. Prayer, after all, is sharing with God what is on our hearts. But above all, we should pray, like Paul did, for Christian maturity, and for love and unity in the church.

Respond in Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank you for Paul's love for these people he had never met. We pray for that same love to rule in our churches. Heal the sick, comfort the bereaved, but above all, make us the people you want us to be. For Jesus' sake, Amen.

Lawson Murray

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).