Podcasts about Epaphras

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 1 Kings 22; 2 Chronicles 18-19; Colossians 4 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! In today's episode, Host Hunter welcomes us to the 18th of June, guiding us through powerful passages from 1 Kings 22, 2 Chronicles 18 and 19, and Colossians 4. We'll hear the dramatic story of King Ahab, the courageous prophet Micaiah who stands for truth amidst a sea of deceit, and the steadfast leadership of Jehoshaphat. Turning to the New Testament, Paul's heartfelt words from prison in Colossians inspire us to let our conversations be gracious, to carry out our unique ministry, and to shine as children of light in a dark world. As we reflect together, Hunter draws a practical connection between the ancient stories and our lives today—reminding us that God calls not just prophets and apostles, but each of us, to be faithful lights wherever we are. The episode includes thoughtful prayers, encouragement to live with integrity and faithfulness, and a gentle reminder that, above all else, you are deeply loved. Join us as we journey through scripture and prayer, growing together in hope, purpose, and God's abundant grace. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Micaiah, the truth-speaking prophet, is a light. In the face of deceit, of dark kingdoms and dark prophets, he stands out. God always has his lights—those who are willing to speak the truth no matter the cost. Micaiah is one of them, refusing to be silenced, refusing to speak anything but what the Lord tells him. Even when the pressure mounted, when the crowds and the king himself wanted him to just go along, Micaiah remained faithful. He shone. God always has his lights because he is the Father of lights. That's what James tells us. In seasons of darkness and confusion, God's people—faithful men and women—shine with his light, reflecting truth, refusing to surrender, even if their voices tremble. Paul was one of those lights, too. Paul deeply desired to shine the truth of the Gospel in the darkness. He understood how difficult it could be—he wrote Colossians while in chains, and it would only get harder. But he kept shining and didn't do it alone; he asked for prayer. “Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should.” Paul knew how hard it would be, but he also knew who he was—a child of the light, called to be a light-bearer in a world that desperately needed it. But God, the Father of lights, isn't just the Father of prophets like Micaiah, or apostles like Paul. He is the Father of ordinary people as well. People whose names are often overlooked, whispered among the closing greetings of Paul's letters—faithful people like Aristarchus, Demas, Epaphras, Archippus, Tychicus, Nympha, Onesimus, and countless others through the age. People like you and me—Craig, Rebecca, Tom, Mary Ellen, Luz. All lights, born of the Father. We each have a ministry, a purpose to shine the Father's bright light in this dark world. Paul asked for prayer, for help to proclaim the truth. He exhorted others to carry out the ministry God had given them. You, too, have been given the light of the world—Jesus himself shining in your heart. Reflect that light. Do what God has called you to do, in his strength, bringing glory back to him. Let us all learn—together—what it means to shine our lights. That's my prayer for my soul, for my family, for my wife and daughters and son. And that's the prayer I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Merciful God, you have brought us through the night. Into this new day we offer you our lives again. Our hopes, our fears, our work, our rest. Keep us faithful in the little things. And mindful of your presence in every moment. Let us not be led by anxiety or pride, but by your peace that passes all understanding through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus, you stretched wide your arms on the cross to draw all people to yourself. Draw the hurting, the hungry, the weary. Break down every wall of hostility and build us into one family by your spirit. Amen. And now, Lord, teach me to walk not with fear, but with faith. Where there is noise, let me be still. Where there is boasting, let me be quiet. Where there is suffering, let me kneel. Let me not crave recognition, but righteousness. Not applause, but communion. For in you I have life, and in dying with you I rise. Amen. And now, as our Lord has taught us, we are bold to pray. Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Two esteemed friends (vv. 12–14) epaphras, the man with a single passion that they might be mature. It is generally accepted that Epaphras was the pastor of the church at Colosse and its founder; Paul identifies him as ‘one of you' (cf. 1:7). He also planted the churches in Laodicea and Hierapolis and was now in Rome visiting Paul in prison to take advice about the situation in the church in Colosse. His heart was warm towards his friends back in Colosse and his prayers were fervent and specific on their behalf. He was praying that they might ‘stand perfect and complete in all the will of God' (v. 12). He was a man of prayer. How he prayed. The phrase ‘labouring fervently' speaks of him wrestling and striving in prayer. The same Greek is used in 1:29 of a man toiling at work until he is thoroughly weary, and in 1 Corinthians 9:25 of an athlete determined to win the race. We get the English word ‘agonizing' from it. In 1 Timothy 6:12 it describes the soldier fighting for his life on the battlefield. True intercessory prayer demands self-sacrifice, dedication and determination. What he prayed. ‘That you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God' (v. 12). There was need for them to grow up spiritually and be mature in the things of Christ, remaining firm in the truth. Paul preaches to achieve it (1:28) and Epaphras prays for it to be so. The word ‘perfect' (teleioi) means ‘to finish the process'. There is, in New Testament religion, such a thing as progressive sanctification: an increase in holiness and the possibility of growing into a deeper love for God, Christ and the brethren (see Phil. 3:12–15). The Colossians are complete positionally (2:10) but here the will of God is in view so that they will be able to resist the ‘spoilers” errors (cf. 1:9). Epaphras prays that they will persevere in the faith, in accordance with the will of God, and that their commitment to the truth in Christ Jesus their Lord will continue. luke, the man with a special talent who is the author of the third Gospel and the book of Acts. He was a companion of Paul during his missionary journeys and accompanied him to Jerusalem and during his dangerous journey to Rome (Acts 16:10–17; 20:6–16, 21, 27–28; 27:1–8—note the ‘we' references). Luke, a Gentile Christian, probably hailed from Antioch. He was a medical doctor and as such was a very valuable travelling companion to Paul and his team. Luke is called the ‘beloved physician' and when we remember what Paul said in 2 Corinthians about his health problems, which he called ‘a thorn in the flesh' (2 Cor. 12:7), there can be no doubt that Luke was of great help to him personally. Besides this, Luke has proved to be a historian of highest quality. His account of the historical Jesus is on a par with the other Gospel writers, and his history of the beginnings of Christianity in the book of Acts is unsurpassed. What he has written has proved, over two millennia, to be very reliable indeed. One endangered soul (v. 14b) demas, the man with a sad future  is something of an enigma. As part of Paul's missionary team he proved to be a valuable helper, but we remember him most because of what Paul wrote of him in 2 Timothy. He is listed there among many of the same companions found in Colossians 4, but here Timothy is told ‘Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world' (2 Tim. 4:10). This was not only a physical but also a spiritual separation. He had succumbed to worldliness. This reminds us of the Parable of the Sower and the consequences of the seed not falling on ‘good ground' (Luke 8:4–15). Sadly, in the New Testament there is no record of his restoration. This is a reminder that Christians need to make their calling and election sure (2 Peter 1:10). Those who received greetings (vv. 15–17) Nymphas or possibly Nympha a woman (v. 15) Having brought greetings from his companions, Paul now requests that his words be passed on: ‘Greet the brethren who are in Laodicea and Nymphas.' The church in Laodicea, or part of it, met in the house of Nymphas. We have no other information about him but can assume that he willingly supported the growing church in his own town and offered it hospitality. This reminds us that the early church met in private homes (Acts 12:12; 16:40), with the church in Colosse meeting in the house of Philemon (Philem. 2). The Epistle to the Colossians is also sent to the church that meets at Laodicea, so that the message could be shared as an act of Christian friendship and evangelism (v. 16). Is this an example of consecutive preaching in the early church? At the very least we see the gathered church hearing and meditating on the Word of God (see Acts 20:7). The Laodiceans (vv. 15–16) What is ‘the epistle from Laodicea'? Is it: A letter written from Laodicea? John Calvin supported this view, which was first mooted in the fourth or fifth century A.D. A letter written by Paul from Laodicea and now lost? The letter written and sent by Paul to Philemon? If Philemon lived in Colosse, this would be unlikely. The Epistle of Paul to the Ephesians? This theory has many advocates but lacks conclusive proof. A letter written by Paul to Laodicea written at the same time as this epistle but now lost? If we remember that Tychicus would need to travel through Laodicea to go to Colosse it would seem strange that there was no letter from Paul. Why leave Laodicea out? Not all of Paul's letters have been preserved (see, for example, 1 Cor. 5:9). There is an apocryphal Epistle to the Laodiceans which was made between A.D. 300 and 400 to fill in the gap in the manuscripts, but by the eighth century it was ‘rejected by all' (Jerome). There is the possibility that there was no letter at all! If there was, why the greetings in v. 15? None of the above throws any doubt on the doctrine of the inerrancy of Scripture. Archippus (v. 17) Archippus was a member of the church in Colosse. Some think he was the son of Philemon and Apphia. Paul speaks to him directly, as he must faithfully discharge the ministry he has received ‘in the Lord'. Archippus was given: a personal message: ‘take heed'. At the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, Lord Nelson is said to have told his sailors and marines that ‘England expects every man to do his duty'; this is no less true of the Lord of the churches. The Lord Jesus Christ expects all believers to do their duty by discharging the ministry given to them, whether in preaching, teaching, leading or serving in the local church. All the believers' talents are to be fully utilized in the service of Christ (Matt. 25:14–30). This was the same exhortation which Paul gave to Timothy (1 Tim. 4:16). a public message: ‘Take heed to the ministry you have received in the Lord'. This exhortation was given in support of Archippus and the ministry he was called by God to discharge. What was this ministry? Perhaps he was the elder in charge while Epaphras was gone (as some suggest), or one of the body of elders and deacons? Whatever it was, he could not run from his responsibility now that Paul had so openly spoken of it! The Lord expects us to do his will when vows have been made. a pointed message: ‘fulfil it'. Archippus obviously needed this exhortation, but why? Had he lost heart (2 Cor. 4:1, 16)? Had he lost his love for the brethren? Had he found the office to which he was called too demanding, and did he now want to relinquish it? We just do not know. But we can be sure that the Holy Spirit meant him to hear this. God wanted him to complete the work he had received from Christ his Lord. Final thoughts (v. 18) Remember Paul's chains Paul's custom was to dictate his letters (Rom. 16:22; Gal. 6:11) and then write a few words of greeting with his own hand at the end to give authentication (2 Thes. 3:17; 1 Cor. 16:21). Because the letter is written by Paul, it is authoritative for faith and practice in the churches. He reminds the Colossians of his ‘chains'. This is a very human touch that indicates his need for prayer support. Those in the service of Jesus Christ are not immune to hardship or injustice in a fallen world. Suffering is ordained by God for believers (Job 2; Gen. 39:6–21; 2 Tim. 3:12), our Saviour being the chief example of this (Isa. 53:7–8). Paul knows that prayer will help (2 Cor. 1:11). Daily grace ‘Grace be with you.' Paul began with grace (1:2) and ends with it. We start the Christian life because of God's grace freely given (Eph. 2:8) and we require it until the end of the journey. Paul speaks to all the Colossian believers (the pronoun ‘you' is plural). They need grace to keep them from falling under the control of the ‘spoilers', and to keep them strong in the Lord and the power of his might. Grace is necessary to do God's will, fulfil his work and live holy lives. Christ promises grace right to the end (Matt. 28:20; 2 Cor. 12:9). ‘Amen' is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew word meaning ‘surely', from the root meaning ‘to be firm'. It is used to express agreement (Deut. 27:15; 1 Kings 1:36) and is the expression of agreement used by the churches (1 Cor. 14:16; Rev. 5:14). It means ‘So let it be'. It is also translated as ‘verily' in the AV, ‘most assuredly' in the NKJV and ‘I tell you the truth' in the NIV (cf. John 3:16).[1]        Mark 8:36 "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?              John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. Have you trusted Him as your Savior? He can Save you if You ask Him based on His death, burial, and resurrection for your sins. Believe in Him for forgiveness of your sins today.               “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”  -John 8:32             Our mission is to spread the gospel and to go to the least of these with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ; We reach out to those the World has forgotten.              hisloveministries.podbean.com #HLMSocial hisloveministries.net https://www.instagram.com/hisloveministries1/?hl=en His Love Ministries on Itunes Don't go for all the gusto you can get, go for all the God (Jesus Christ) you can get. The gusto will get you, Jesus can save you. https://www.facebook.com/His-Love-Ministries-246606668725869/?tn-str=k*F             The world is trying to solve earthly problems that can only be solved with heavenly solutions

Pastor Jacob Bell encourages everyone on Father's Day to be faithful like Epaphras was to the church of the New Testament.

Pastor Jacob Bell encourages everyone on Father's Day to be faithful like Epaphras was to the church of the New Testament.

Pastor David Dunlop from Windsor Baptist shares a message from Colossians on the fauthful servant and minister of the gospel, Epaphras. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stable and SteadfastJune 1, 2025 • Devon Accardi • Colossians 1:3–14, Colossians 1:21–23This Sunday, Devon continues our summer series on Colossians. In Paul's letter to the Colossians, he meant to center the early church on the unchanging truth of Christ. Using the example of Epaphras, who heard the gospel and brought it home, he reminds us that ordinary people can carry extraordinary truth. Paul prays for the believers to be filled with wisdom, to live lives that reflect Jesus, to bear fruit, endure trials with joy, and grow in gratitude, offering a spiritual guide for a gospel-shaped life. We were once alienated from God but have been rescued and transferred into Christ's kingdom through His death and resurrection.WEBSITE: https://fellowshipknox.org/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipknox/

Upon our return to Stephensville TX from San Diego we passed the Star Gate Project and encountered some revelations… Faithbucks.com Because of the hope [of experiencing what is] laid up ([d]reserved and waiting) for you in heaven. Of this [hope] you heard in the past in the message of the truth of the Gospel, 6 Which has come to you. Indeed, in the whole world [that Gospel] is bearing fruit and still is growing [e][by its own inherent power], even as it has done among yourselves ever since the day you first heard and came to know and understand the grace of God in truth. [You came to know the grace or undeserved favor of God in reality, deeply and clearly and thoroughly, becoming accurately and intimately acquainted with it.] 7 You so learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ in our stead and as our representative and [f]yours. 8 Also he has informed us of your love in the [Holy] Spirit. 9 For this reason we also, from the day we heard of it, have not ceased to pray and make [[g]special] request for you, [asking] that you may be filled with the [h]full (deep and clear) knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom [[i]in comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God] and in understanding and discernment of spiritual things— 10 That you may walk (live and conduct yourselves) in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him and [j]desiring to please Him in all things, bearing fruit in every good work and steadily growing and increasing in and by the knowledge of God [with fuller, deeper, and clearer insight, [k]acquaintance, and recognition]. 11 [We pray] that you may be invigorated and strengthened with all power according to the might of His glory, [to exercise] every kind of endurance and patience (perseverance and forbearance) with joy, 12 Giving thanks to the Father, Who has qualified and made us fit to share the [l]portion which is the inheritance of the saints (God's holy people) in the Light. 13 [The Father] has delivered and [m]drawn us to Himself out of the control and the dominion of darkness and has transferred us into the kingdom of the Son [n]of His love, 14 In Whom we have our redemption through His blood, [which means] the forgiveness of our sins. 15 [Now] He is the [o]exact likeness of the unseen God [the visible representation of the invisible]; He is the Firstborn of all creation. 16 For it was in Him that all things were created, in heaven and on earth, things seen and things unseen, whether thrones, dominions, rulers, or authorities; all things were created and exist through Him [by His service, intervention] and in and for Him. 17 And He Himself existed before all things, and in Him all things consist (cohere, are held together). 18 He also is the Head of [His] body, the church; seeing He is the Beginning, the Firstborn from among the dead, so that He alone in everything and in every respect might occupy the chief place [stand first and be preeminent]. 19 For it has pleased [the Father] that all the divine fullness (the sum total of the divine perfection, powers, and attributes) should dwell in Him [p]permanently. 20 And God purposed that through ([q]by the service, the intervention of) Him [the Son] all things should be completely reconciled [r]back to Himself, whether on earth or in heaven, as through Him, [the Father] made peace by means of the blood of His cross.

In the final segment In the final segment of our Bible readings we are introduced a picture of ourself – Onesimus, a profligate runaway slave, who in Rome is liberated from his wasteful state to become a brother in Christ. The key words in this letter are related to BOWELS. Paul is demonstrating his love for God, His Son, His Word, His truth, and for Philemon and his family and the ecclesia, as well as for Onesimus. The Apostle is demonstrating to Philemon that, we must not only know and live the truth, we must love it, and God and His Son and His Word, His truth, His ecclesia, His family: we must be emotionally involved and committed. Paul sends Onesimus back to his master, as a fellow believer in Christ carrying this letter and the epistle to the Colossians. Onesimus is formerly described as being “unprofitable”, which is our condition before we believed the gospel and received forgiveness. But now he has learnt to abound in his grateful realisation of his elevated status see Ephesians 2:1-12. The Apostle Paul had taught Philemon the truth of the gospel. He speaks of Philemon's debt to God in the forgiveness which he has been given. Therefore Philemon ought to show the same forgiveness to his fellow believer – even though Onesimus was his slave. The Apostle Paul is confident that Philemon will comply with the Apostle's request. Final greetings are conveyed through Epaphras, who carries the letter to Philemon.

In the final segment In the final segment of our Bible readings we are introduced a picture of ourself – Onesimus, a profligate runaway slave, who in Rome is liberated from his wasteful state to become a brother in Christ. The key words in this letter are related to BOWELS. Paul is demonstrating his love for God, His Son, His Word, His truth, and for Philemon and his family and the ecclesia, as well as for Onesimus. The Apostle is demonstrating to Philemon that, we must not only know and live the truth, we must love it, and God and His Son and His Word, His truth, His ecclesia, His family: we must be emotionally involved and committed. Paul sends Onesimus back to his master, as a fellow believer in Christ carrying this letter and the epistle to the Colossians. Onesimus is formerly described as being “unprofitable”, which is our condition before we believed the gospel and received forgiveness. But now he has learnt to abound in his grateful realisation of his elevated status see Ephesians 2:1-12. The Apostle Paul had taught Philemon the truth of the gospel. He speaks of Philemon's debt to God in the forgiveness which he has been given. Therefore Philemon ought to show the same forgiveness to his fellow believer – even though Onesimus was his slave. The Apostle Paul is confident that Philemon will comply with the Apostle's request. Final greetings are conveyed through Epaphras, who carries the letter to Philemon.

An expository sermon from Colossians 4:12-13 on Epaphras.

Today's Passage: Colossians 4:7-14Tychicus will tell you all about my activities. He is a beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your hearts, and with him Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you of everything that has taken place here.Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him), 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. Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis. Luke the beloved physician greets you, as does Demas. Today's Prayer: Lord, we thank you for the body of believers that surrounds us, the ways you hold us together, and the gift of comfort and encouragement. We pray that you will continue your work in us that we would stand mature and fully assured in the will of God. Amen.NOTES & LINKS:Information about the Women's Summer StudyInformation about the Men's Summer StudyReach out to the Center for Spiritual Formation

Praying with Joy and Earnestness: A Lesson from Epaphras and PaulRobert Hernandez

Little is known of Justus (Jesus) but Epaphras was centeral to the saints at Colosse, Laodices, and Hierapolis. These congregations lay heavy on the heart of Epaphras in that he labored fervently in prayer for them to stand (abide) perfect and complete in all the will of God. Sadly, too many today are lacking in their understanding of the will of God.

Paul sent the letter to the Colossians in about 62 AD. He never personally visited the region where there were two groups of believers – one in Colossae and the other in Laodicea. The one letter was read by both at this time and about 34 years time when another letter was sent in 96 AD by the Lord Jesus Christ. The area was exceptionally fertile and lay in a very rich valley. The epistle commenced with the greeting “Grace (‘charis' the Greek greeting) and peace (‘shalom' the Jewish greeting) coming to the believers from God our Father. This is followed by thanksgiving and prayer for their faithfulness in the gospel; as reported to the Apostle from Epaphras. The believers were increasing in knowledge and love. But the greatest of all thanks was to be expressed to God, our Father, who had “qualified us to share the inheritance of the saints in light … and has transferred us to the Kingdom of His beloved Son” (verses 12-13 ESV). Then from verses 14-23 Paul tells us of the preeminence of the Lord Jesus Christ the Son of the Father. Our Lord Jesus is the beginning (Gk ‘archegos') and head of God's new creation and is the firstborn (Jesus firstborn by birth, death and resurrection) of that creation; the firstborn from the dead to be raised to eternal life. Verses 24-29 tell of Paul's suffering for all Gentile believers, that he might share and participate in the sufferings of Christ (as part of his body, which we,the ecclesia are). In verse 27 we have the key verse and theme of the book, “Christ in you (ie each of us) the hope of glory”.

Paul sent the letter to the Colossians in about 62 AD. He never personally visited the region where there were two groups of believers – one in Colossae and the other in Laodicea. The one letter was read by both at this time and about 34 years time when another letter was sent in 96 AD by the Lord Jesus Christ. The area was exceptionally fertile and lay in a very rich valley. The epistle commenced with the greeting “Grace (‘charis' the Greek greeting) and peace (‘shalom' the Jewish greeting) coming to the believers from God our Father. This is followed by thanksgiving and prayer for their faithfulness in the gospel; as reported to the Apostle from Epaphras. The believers were increasing in knowledge and love. But the greatest of all thanks was to be expressed to God, our Father, who had “qualified us to share the inheritance of the saints in light … and has transferred us to the Kingdom of His beloved Son” (verses 12-13 ESV). Then from verses 14-23 Paul tells us of the preeminence of the Lord Jesus Christ the Son of the Father. Our Lord Jesus is the beginning (Gk ‘archegos') and head of God's new creation and is the firstborn (Jesus firstborn by birth, death and resurrection) of that creation; the firstborn from the dead to be raised to eternal life. Verses 24-29 tell of Paul's suffering for all Gentile believers, that he might share and participate in the sufferings of Christ (as part of his body, which we,the ecclesia are). In verse 27 we have the key verse and theme of the book, “Christ in you (ie each of us) the hope of glory”.

patreon.com/commonprayerdaily------Opening Words:Alleluia! Christ is risen. The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia!“If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.” Colossians 3:1 (ESV)------Confession:Let us humbly confess our sins unto Almighty God.Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen.------The Invitatory & Psalter:Lord, open our lips. And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.Pascha Nostrum (Christ our Passover)Alleluia. The Lord is risen indeed: Come let us adore him.Alleluia.Alleluia. Christ our Passover has been sacrificed for us; therefore let us keep the feast,Not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. Alleluia.Christ being raised from the dead will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. The death that he died, he died to sin, once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. So also consider yourselves dead to sin, * and alive to God in Jesus Christ our Lord. Alleluia.Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, * so also in Christ shall all be made alive. Alleluia.Alleluia. The Lord is risen indeed: Come let us adore him.Alleluia.------The Psalms & LessonsPsalm 41Happy are they who consider the poor and needy! *the Lord will deliver them in the time of trouble.The Lord preserves them and keeps them alive,so that they may be happy in the land; *he does not hand them over to the will of their enemies.The Lord sustains them on their sickbed *and ministers to them in their illness.I said, “Lord, be merciful to me; *heal me, for I have sinned against you.”My enemies are saying wicked things about me: *“When will he die, and his name perish?”Even if they come to see me, they speak empty words; *their heart collects false rumors;they go outside and spread them.All my enemies whisper together about me *and devise evil against me.“A deadly thing,” they say, “has fastened on him; *he has taken to his bed and will never get up again.”Even my best friend, whom I trusted,who broke bread with me, *has lifted up his heel and turned against me.But you, O Lord, be merciful to me and raise me up, *and I shall repay them.By this I know you are pleased with me, *that my enemy does not triumph over me.In my integrity you hold me fast, *and shall set me before your face for ever.Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, *from age to age. Amen. Amen.Psalm 52You tyrant, why do you boast of wickedness *against the godly all day long?You plot ruin;your tongue is like a sharpened razor, *O worker of deception.You love evil more than good *and lying more than speaking the truth.You love all words that hurt, *O you deceitful tongue.Oh, that God would demolish you utterly, *topple you, and snatch you from your dwelling,and root you out of the land of the living!The righteous shall see and tremble, *and they shall laugh at him, saying,“This is the one who did not take God for a refuge, *but trusted in great wealthand relied upon wickedness.”But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; *I trust in the mercy of God for ever and ever.I will give you thanks for what you have done *and declare the goodness of your Name in the presence of the godly.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: * as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.------Wisdom 1:16-2:11,21-24But the ungodly by their words and deeds summoned death; considering him a friend, they pined away and made a covenant with him, because they are fit to belong to his company. For they reasoned unsoundly, saying to themselves, "Short and sorrowful is our life, and there is no remedy when a life comes to its end, and no one has been known to return from Hades. For we were born by mere chance, and hereafter we shall be as though we had never been, for the breath in our nostrils is smoke, and reason is a spark kindled by the beating of our hearts; when it is extinguished, the body will turn to ashes, and the spirit will dissolve like empty air. Our name will be forgotten in time, and no one will remember our works; our life will pass away like the traces of a cloud, and be scattered like mist that is chased by the rays of the sun and overcome by its heat. For our allotted time is the passing of a shadow, and there is no return from our death, because it is sealed up and no one turns back. "Come, therefore, let us enjoy the good things that exist, and make use of the creation to the full as in youth. Let us take our fill of costly wine and perfumes, and let no flower of spring pass us by. Let us crown ourselves with rosebuds before they wither. Let none of us fail to share in our revelry; everywhere let us leave signs of enjoyment, because this is our portion, and this our lot. Let us oppress the righteous poor man; let us not spare the widow or regard the gray hairs of the aged. But let our might be our law of right, for what is weak proves itself to be useless. Thus they reasoned, but they were led astray, for their wickedness blinded them, and they did not know the secret purposes of God, nor hoped for the wages of holiness, nor discerned the prize for blameless souls; for God created us for incorruption, and made us in the image of his own eternity, but through the devil's envy death entered the world, and those who belong to his company experience it. ------Colossians 1:1-14English Standard Version1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,2 To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae:Grace to you and peace from God our Father.3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, 5 because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, 6 which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth, 7 just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf 8 and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.9 And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11 being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. 13 He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.The Word of the Lord. Thanks Be To God.------Luke 6:1-11English Standard Version6 On a Sabbath, while he was going through the grainfields, his disciples plucked and ate some heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands. 2 But some of the Pharisees said, “Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?” 3 And Jesus answered them, “Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him: 4 how he entered the house of God and took and ate the bread of the Presence, which is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and also gave it to those with him?” 5 And he said to them, “The Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath.”6 On another Sabbath, he entered the synagogue and was teaching, and a man was there whose right hand was withered. 7 And the scribes and the Pharisees watched him, to see whether he would heal on the Sabbath, so that they might find a reason to accuse him. 8 But he knew their thoughts, and he said to the man with the withered hand, “Come and stand here.” And he rose and stood there. 9 And Jesus said to them, “I ask you, is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to destroy it?” 10 And after looking around at them all he said to him, “Stretch out your hand.” And he did so, and his hand was restored. 11 But they were filled with fury and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus.The Word of the Lord. Thanks Be To God.------Cantemus Domino (The Song of Moses)Exodus 15:1-6, 11-13, 17-18I will sing to the Lord, for he is lofty and uplifted;  the horse and its rider has he hurled into the sea. The Lord is my strength and my refuge;  the Lord has become my Savior. This is my God and I will praise him,  the God of my people and I will exalt him. The Lord is a mighty warrior;  Yahweh is his Name. The chariots of Pharaoh and his army has he hurled into the sea; * the finest of those who bear armor have been drowned in the Red Sea.The fathomless deep has overwhelmed them;  they sank into the depths like a stone. Your right hand, O Lord, is glorious in might;  your right hand, O Lord, has overthrown the enemy. Who can be compared with you, O Lord, among the gods?  who is like you, glorious in holiness, awesome in renown, and worker of wonders? You stretched forth your right hand;  the earth swallowed them up. With your constant love you led the people you redeemed;  with your might you brought them in safety to your holy dwelling. You will bring them in and plant them  on the mount of your possession, The resting-place you have made for yourself, O Lord,  the sanctuary, O Lord, that your hand has established. The Lord shall reign  for ever and for ever.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.------The Apostles CreedI believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.------The PrayersLord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercyOur Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.The SuffragesO Lord, show your mercy upon us; And grant us your salvation.O Lord, guide those who govern us And lead us in the way of justice and truth.Clothe your ministers with righteousness And let your people sing with joy.O Lord, save your people And bless your inheritance.Give peace in our time, O Lord And defend us by your mighty power.Let not the needy, O Lord, be forgotten Nor the hope of the poor be taken away.Create in us clean hearts, O God And take not your Holy Spirit from us.Take a moment of silence at this time to reflect and pray for others.------The CollectsSpecial Collects:The Fourth Week of EasterO God, whose Son Jesus is the good shepherd of your people: Grant that when we hear his voice we may know him who calls us each by name, and follow where he leads; who, with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.Daily Collects:A Collect for PeaceO God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries, through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.A Collect for Grace O Lord, our heavenly Father, almighty and everlasting God, you have brought us safely to the beginning of this day: Defend us by your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin nor run into any danger; and that, guided by your Spirit, we may do what is righteous in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Prayer for Mission Almighty and everlasting God, who alone works great marvels: Send down upon our clergy and the congregations committed to their charge the life-giving Spirit of your grace, shower them with the continual dew of your blessing, and ignite in them a zealous love of your Gospel; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.------General ThanksgivingAlmighty God, Father of all mercies, we your unworthy servants give you humble thanks for all your goodness and loving-kindness to us and to all whom you have made. We bless you for our creation, preservation, and all the blessings of this life; but above all for your immeasurable love in the redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ; for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. And, we pray, give us such an awareness of your mercies, that with truly thankful hearts we may show forth your praise, not only with our lips, but in our lives, by giving up our selves to your service, and by walking before you in holiness and righteousness all our days; Through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory throughout all ages. Amen.A Prayer of St. John ChrysostomAlmighty God, you have given us grace at this time, with one accord to make our common supplications to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will grant their requests: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen.------DismissalLet us bless the Lord Thanks be to God!BenedictionThe grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen.

Today's Passage: Colossians 1:1-8Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae:Grace to you and peace from God our Father.We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel, which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth, just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.Today's Prayer: Lord, we thank you for your beautiful Word,Your Gospel truth that brings hope and life.Your Word is alive and active,Bearing fruit and reaching to the end of the earth. We thank you for your church,The saints who continue to lay down their lives before you,Your sons and daughters who are chosen and dearly loved. As your people meditate on your Word—Keep our hearts ever on fire for more of your Spirit.Remind us of the hope that we have in Christ Jesus.Bring clarity and light to where you are at work.Strengthen us for the path you have laid before us. We love you, Lord.Amen.NOTES & LINKS:Information about the Women's Summer StudyInformation about the Men's Summer StudyReach out to the Center for Spiritual Formation

“Tychicus will tell you all the news about me.  He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord.  I am sending him to you for the express purpose that you may know about our circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts.  He is coming with Onesimus, our faithful and dear brother, who is one of you.  They will tell you everything that is happening here.  My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas.  (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.)  Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends his greetings.  These are the only Jews among my co-workers for the kingdom of God, and they proved a comfort to me.  Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Jesus Christ, sends greetings.  He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.  I vouch for him that he is working hard for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis.  Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings.  Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house.  After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea.  Tell Archippus:  ‘See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord.'  I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand.  Remember my chains, Grace be with you.”Colossians 4:7-18“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.  For we are all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body-whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free-and we were all given the on Spirit to drink.  Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many…Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.”1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27Theme #1 It's ALL about PEOPLETheme #2  It's intensely PERSONAL

The post Epaphras appeared first on Woodland Hills Church of Christ.

While the Apostle Paul was under arrest in Rome, he was visited by a church planter from Colossae named Epaphras. Epaphras had great news about the move of the Holy Spirit in Colossae but had some concerns about false teaching making its way into the church there. This visit inspired Paul to write a letter to the church in Colossae to remind them that Jesus really is above all. As Paul concludes his letter, he focuses on how we are to use our words - and how they are to line up with our conduct.

While the Apostle Paul was under arrest in Rome, he was visited by a church planter from Colossae named Epaphras. Epaphras had great news about the move of the Holy Spirit in Colossae but had some concerns about false teaching making its way into the church there. This visit inspired Paul to write a letter to the church in Colossae to remind them that Jesus really is above all. In this passage, Paul gets very practical. But these nine verses MUST be read in context with the previous two and half chapters. In this new kingdom of Jesus, there are ways to live in our everyday. When Christians live as if they are truly risen with Christ, everything changes.

While the Apostle Paul was under arrest in Rome, he was visited by a church planter from Colossae named Epaphras. Epaphras had great news about the move of the Holy Spirit in Colossae but had some concerns about false teaching making its way into the church there. This visit inspired Paul to write a letter to the church in Colossae to remind them that Jesus really is above all.As Paul shifts to the "what now" portion of his letter, his focus moves to how the Colossians should live in light of the truth of Christ's pre-eminence. In this passage, he implores the Christians in Colossae to fix their minds on things that are right and true and pure and let their behavior follow.

In this episode we interview Frank Viola about his new book The Untold Story of the New Testament Church (Revised and Expanded). Bio:Frank is a bestselling author, speaker, podcaster, and blogger. He helps serious followers of Jesus know their Lord more deeply so they can experience real transformation and make a lasting impact. His blog – frankviola.org – is regularly ranked in the top 5 of all Christian blogs on the Web and his podcast – Christ is All – has ranked #1 in Canada and #2 in the USA on Apple Podcasts. He and his conversation partners also host The Insurgence Podcast.About the Book:Experience the New Testament Like Never BeforeOne famous scholar said that reading the New Testament letters is like hearing one end of a phone conversation. The Untold Story of the New Testament Church (Revised and Expanded) reconstructs the other end so you can understand virtually every word.Seamlessly weaving the narrative of Acts with the Epistles, you'll discover a coherent story enriched by intriguing details of first-century life. This unique and innovative presentation of the New Testament unlocks its epic story in a way that will leave you breathless and equipped to understand the Bible like never before.Though it's non-fiction, this masterpiece reads like a cinematic experience that will captivate your heart by putting you in the center of the drama. Drawing on the best of contemporary scholarship, Frank Viola includes background information about the people, cities, and places that are mentioned throughout the New Testament, all in an engaging narrative.As you dive into this riveting volume, you will:Gain an intimate glimpse into the lives of apostles Peter, James, John, Paul, and their colleagues.Uncover the events that inspired each New Testament letter, shedding new light on every line from Romans to Revelation.Meet the key figures who shaped the world, like Priscilla, Apollos, Lydia, Luke, John Mark, Phoebe, Aristarchus, and Epaphras.Witness the dynamic tumult of first-century churches, individuals, and events as they unfold vividly before you.Prepare to be ushered into the living, breathing atmosphere of the first century so you can uncover the hidden riches contained in God's Word.Buy the Book: https://a.co/d/cgKpHh6Book Website: www.theuntoldstory.net

While the Apostle Paul was under arrest in Rome, he was visited by a church planter from Colossae named Epaphras. Epaphras had great news about the move of the Holy Spirit in Colossae but had some concerns about false teaching making its way into the church there. This visit inspired Paul to write a letter to the church in Colossae to remind them that Jesus really is above all. In this passage we get to the root of the issues in Colossae. The young Christians were being told that the way to grow in faith was through legalism or spiritualism and not through Jesus.  We can find ourselves in the same place, even today. So, what are we to do?

When reading the bible, people may have a tendency to skip through Paul's greetings. At the end of his letters, he starts telling the people “thank you” and “greet (fill in the blank), but there is some good stuff found in his greetings if we will take the time to read them and such is the case in the letter of Colossians. Yes, Paul greets a lot of people, some even from another church (Laodicea), but if you break down some of these people's lives from what he says about them, one can learn a lot! Like Epaphras for example. Epaphras was a prayer warrior and he interceded on behalf of the church at Colosse, and also for Laodicea and Hieropplis. But in this greeting, we find out that Paul wrote a letter to the church at Laodicea...Where is this letter?!?! We do not have it in our bibles because nobody has the original to copy from! What did Paul say to the church at Laodicea?!?! I guess we'll find out in heaven!

While the Apostle Paul was under arrest in Rome, he was visited by a church planter from Colossae named Epaphras. Epaphras had great news about the move of the Holy Spirit in Colossae but had some concerns about false teaching making its way into the church there. This visit inspired Paul to write a letter to the church in Colossae to remind them that Jesus really is above all.In this passage, Paul begins to deal with some of the false teaching that was impacting the lives of the Christians in Colossae. He appeals to them to walk with Christ in the same way they received Him. He asserts that there is no separation between our salvation and our sanctification.

Message from Richard Smith on March 9, 2025

While the Apostle Paul was under arrest in Rome, he was visited by a church planter from Colossae named Epaphras. Epaphras had great news about the move of the Holy Spirit in Colossae but had some concerns about false teaching making its way into the church there. This visit inspired Paul to write a letter to the church in Colossae to remind them that Jesus really is above all.As Paul begins to move to the body of the letter, he wants to show the Colossian Christians how much their lives and even their suffering matters to God's plan to save the world. 

"Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth: As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit." Colossians 1:6-8

While the Apostle Paul was under arrest in Rome, he was visited by a church planter from Colossae named Epaphras. Epaphras had great news about the move of the Holy Spirit in Colossae but had some concerns about false teaching making its way into the church there. This visit inspired Paul to write a letter to the church in Colossae to remind them that Jesus really is above all.As Paul continues his introduction, he lays out a bold proclamation - Jesus is God. This truth would have been revolutionary to the Roman world but Paul would not leave it at some sort of cosmic truth, he would explain to the Colossians why that matters to them personally. The same is true for us. Jesus is God. And that matters.

While the Apostle Paul was under arrest in Rome, he was visited by a church planter from Colossae named Epaphras. Epaphras had great news about the move of the Holy Spirit in Colossae but had some concerns about false teaching making its way into the church there. This visit inspired Paul to write a letter to the church in Colossae to remind them that Jesus really is above all.In Chapter One, Paul shares his desire for the Christians in Colossae - that they would truly know the will of God in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. In much the same way, we need the same thing. Our lives are full of situations where we aren't sure what to do but we have all we need in Jesus.

Brad Klassen • Selected Scriptures

Brad Klassen • Selected Scriptures • Grace Pulpit

As the churches of the first century were planted from Jerusalem to the uttermost parts of the world, commons challenges of persecution and heresy quickly developed. Satan does not plant, he seeks pluck up and plunder. The church at Colosse was planted by a faithful minister of Christ, Epaphras (1:17). Paul had received report about this church while confined in prison. There was much to rejoice about, however there was a heretical teaching that was threatening the church. This heresy centered around the sufficiency of Christ. It was not a denial of Christ, but a demoting of Christ. Paul's heart was moved and so he wrote a needed epistle to help strengthen this church in the truth so they might do the will of God in Colossae. Thanks for joining us for this episode and please take a moment to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you enjoy this content, please don't hesitate to leave us a 5-star review and share this podcast with your friends.  We'd like to extend an invitation to you and your family to join us for worship this week at Grace Baptist Church. We'd also love to connect with you online at https://gracekettering.org. Thanks again for checking out this episode, and we look forward to having you join us again right here on the Grace Baptist Church Podcast!

Send us a text      Who is Epaphras? Little is mentioned about him according to the Scriptures. But a lot is revealed with the information given about him. In this sermon, we will dive-in and discover the remarkable traits, features and virtues that the apostle Paul instilled in this fellow bondservant. May you be blessed and nourished by the Word of the Lord. 

Welcome to the Grace Coach Podcast! Mike and Kevin share their insights from the Book of Colossians as they dive into Chapter 1:1-14 1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 To God's holy people in Colossae, the faithful brothers and sisters[a] in Christ: Grace and peace to you from God our Father.[b] 3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God's people— 5 the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven and about which you have already heard in the true message of the gospel 6 that has come to you. In the same way, the gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world—just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood God's grace. 7 You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant,[c] who is a faithful minister of Christ on our[d] behalf, 8 and who also told us of your love in the Spirit. 9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,[e] 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, 12 and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you[f] to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

In this episode I interview Epaphras again. He shares with us how we can help Him, through prayer. If you are interested in the Epaphras Prayer Circle, send me a message on facebook.

January 12, 2025Having heard from Epaphras the legacy the Colossians had built bytheir faith in Jesus and love for others, Paul prayed earnestly for themthat they would:  be filled with knowledge of God's will, walk in a mannerworthy of Jesus, bear fruit in good work, be strengthened in character, andgive thanks to God.Colossians 1:9-14

When you tell someone you're going to pray for them...DO IT! Right then and there...Don't wait until later because you may forget! My own daughter who is in high school has told me how people would say to her they would pray for her but she knew they wouldn't, that they were just being nice. Epaphras was a prayer warrior, he was an intercessor on behalf of the church at Colosse as well as other churches. Paul says he literally wrestled with the enemy when he prayed. I want someone like that praying on my behalf! That's how we should be as the body of Christ! Wrestling with the enemy, fighting for one another, pushing back darkness so we can have victory!

Did you know Paul didn't start the church in Colosse? In fact, as far as we know, he never even visited them! So how did they hear the gospel? How did a congregation start filled with Gentiles who love Jesus? More than likely it started with a man named Epaphras who was a coworker of Paul. He had learned from the best and at some point, he went on a mission himself preaching the gospel in Colosse and the Holy Spirit did a mighty work through him! We only have a few verses about Epaphras but what we do have shows us what a man of God he was and how he inspires us to be like him!

The Apostle Paul’s love for God’s people shines brightly in his communication with Philemon, offering us an exemplary model of Christian love and leadership to emulate. This letter, penned towards the end of Paul’s life, exemplifies his unwavering love and faithfulness to the very end. Luke 10:25-37 A powerful story illustrating compassion to completeness The epistle of Philemon is not merely a parable, but a true account showcasing profound compassion in its fullest form. Philemon 1:1 Philemon was a church leader in Colossae. Onesimus was his runaway slave who had become a believer under Paul’s guidance. This letter, penned towards the end of Paul’s life, exemplifies his unwavering love and faithfulness to the very end. 2 Apphia is thought to be Philemon’s wife, and Archippus is either Philemon’s son or a fellow leader in the church. 3-4 Paul prayed often – Romans 1:8-9; 1 Corinthians 1:4; Ephesians 1:16; Philippians; 1:3-4; Colossians 1:3; 1 Thessalonians 1:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:11; 2 Timothy 1:3 7 Epaphras, likely the founder and influential leader of this church, was in Rome with Paul and must have informed Paul about Philemon whose leadership was vital. 9 Paul demonstrates the importance of voluntary, heartfelt actions. 11 Paul may be engaging in a clever play on words by contrasting “useless” and “useful,” as the name Onesimus actually means “useful”. 16 Paul's loving intercession for Onesimus as communicated was designed to touch the core of Philemon's heart, evoking his love, mercy, and spiritual understanding. 19 Paul asks Philemon to accept Onesimus as he would accept Paul and not as he was before his conversion. He offers to take on any debt that Onesimus may have incurred. 21 Paul conveys his confidence in Philemon’s obedience and willingness to go above and beyond what is being asked. 25 Paul's personal involvement in this situation is a great example of true compassion.The post Compassion Completed first appeared on Living Hope.

Brad Klassen • Colossians 1:7–1:8 • Sermon Notes (Slides) • Commissioned

Brad Klassen • Colossians 1:7–1:8 • Sermon Notes (Slides)

1:1 Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, 1:2 And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house: 1:3 Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 1:4 I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, 1:5 Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; 1:6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. 1:7 For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother. 1:8 Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient, 1:9 Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. 1:10 I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: 1:11 Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me: 1:12 Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels: 1:13 Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel: 1:14 But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly. 1:15 For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever; 1:16 Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? 1:17 If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. 1:18 If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account; 1:19 I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides. 1:20 Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord. 1:21 Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say. 1:22 But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you. 1:23 There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus; 1:24 Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers. 1:25 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

4:7 All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord: 4:8 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts; 4:9 With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here. 4:10 Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;) 4:11 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. 4:12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. 4:13 For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis. 4:14 Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you. 4:15 Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house. 4:16 And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. 4:17 And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it. 4:18 The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen.

Dr. Randy White of Taos, NM, explores Epaphras' faithful ministry, emphasizing his prayerful dedication to the Colossians' spiritual growth, firm faith, and Christ-centered maturity.

Welcome to Day 2504 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2504 – A Final Farewell – Daily Wisdom – Colossians 4:7-18 Putnam Church Message – 11/10/2024 Jesus Christ, Our Leader – A Friendly Farewell Colossians 4:7-18 Last week, we explored The Big Deal About “Little” Things and how important our vertical and horizontal communications are: our talk and our walk reflect our new life in Christ. This week, we will finish Paul's letter to the Colossians chapter 4:7-18 in a message titled ‘A Friendly Farewell.' It is on page 1835 of your Pew Bibles, but I will read it from the NLT  7 Tychicus will give you a full report about how I am getting along. He is a beloved brother and faithful helper who serves with me in the Lord's work. 8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose—to let you know how we are doing and to encourage you. 9 I am also sending Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, one of your own people. He and Tychicus will tell you everything that's happening here. 10 Aristarchus, who is in prison with me, sends you his greetings, and so does Mark, Barnabas's cousin.| As you were instructed before, make Mark welcome if he comes your way. 11 Jesus (the one we call Justus) also sends his greetings. These are the only Jewish believers among my co-workers; they are working with me here for the Kingdom of God. And what a comfort they have been! 12 Epaphras, a member of your own fellowship and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you his greetings. He always prays earnestly for you, asking God to make you strong and perfect, fully confident that you are following the whole will of God. 13 I can assure you that he prays hard for you and also for the believers in Laodicea and Hierapolis. 14 Luke, the beloved doctor, sends his greetings, and so does Demas. 15 Please give my greetings to our brothers and sisters[b] at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church that meets in her house. 16 After you have read this letter, pass it on to the church at Laodicea so they can read it, too. And you should read the letter I wrote to them. 17 And say to Archippus, “Be sure to carry out the ministry the Lord gave you.” 18 HERE IS MY GREETING IN MY OWN HANDWRITING—PAUL. Remember my chains. May God's grace be with you. The great poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge wrote a poem, “Friendship is a sheltering tree.” How right he was. Think about it. Friends reach out to us and offer us refuge like the branches of a tree. They give us shade, shelter, provision, and protection. They invite us to a familiar place of refreshment, retreat, and repose. In particular, true friends provide three vital...

Today we started to read Paul's epistle to the Colossians.  Paul tells them that when Epaphras, “a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf … made known to us your love in the Spirit … we have not ceased to pray for you” [Ch. 1 v.7-9] We particularly noticed what Paul was asking for the believers in Colossae. He prayed, “asking that you may be filled will the knowledge of His will”   How can we know God's will?  Is this only a matter of reading the Bible and that will reveal to us the will of God; what he wills to happen on the earth?     We notice that the first verse says, “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God.”  When we come to Ch. 4 we will read that Epaphras not only sends his greetings but is “always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully matured in all the will of God.” [v.12] So we conclude that Paul is not writing of “the will of God” in a general sense, rather in the specific sense of knowing God's will towards them in their lives, as it had been toward Paul in bringing about his conversion. . Next we notice that this “will” was not in the sense of a knowledge of facts about God's plans – because Paul goes on to state that this awareness of God's will was to be “in all spiritual wisdom and understanding.”  This is not human knowledge and wisdom such when we go to school and do courses in an effort to gain sufficient knowledge so that we can work effectively and earn a living. This awareness of God's will was to see his desire for them (and us) “to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him.”[v.10].   True believers, Paul is saying, inevitably have a life changing experience; otherwise they are not true believers.  The result of being true believers is that they are “bearing fruit in every good work” – this “fruit” is their wages.   Now note how the verse ends! “and increasing in the knowledge of God.”  Again, we meditate on the nature of that “knowledge” and remember Job's encounter with God and how God “answered Job out of the whirlwind and said: Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge” [Ch.38 v.1]     Job comes to realize and admit to God, “I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you.” [42 v.5]  What kind of “eye” is this?  This reminds us of Paul words about receiving, as the result of prayers, “the spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your heart enlightened” [Eph. 1 v.17,18]   We must each ask ourselves, are the eyes of my heart enlightened so that I can see God's will for me?

1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother, 1:2 To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 1:3 We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 1:4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, 1:5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; 1:6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth: 1:7 As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; 1:8 Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit. 1:9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 1:10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; 1:11 Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; 1:12 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 1:13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 1:14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

Welcome to Day 2464 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2464 – Praying for Knowledge of the Truth – Daily Wisdom Putnam Church Message – 09/15/2024 Jesus Christ, Our Lord – Praying for Knowledge of the Truth Colossians 1:1-14 Last week, we finished the letter of 2 Peter with Four Strong Commands, which were: Be diligent (3:14), Be confident (3:15-16), Be on guard (3:17), Be fruitful (3:18). Today's passage is Colossians 1:1-14, on page 1831 of your Pew Bibles. 1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 To God's holy people in Colossae, the faithful brothers and sisters[a] in Christ: Grace and peace to you from God our Father.[b] 3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God's people— 5 the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven and about which you have already heard in the true message of the gospel 6 that has come to you. In the same way, the gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world—just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood God's grace. 7 You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant,[c] who is a faithful minister of Christ on our[d] behalf, 8 and who also told us of your love in the Spirit. 9 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,[e] 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, 11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, 12 and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you[