- Colossians 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.
- Colossians 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.
- Colossians 1:11 - Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness.
- Colossians 1:12 - Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.
- Colossians 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.
- Colossians 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.
- Philemon 1:23 - There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus.
Today we meet Epaphras, who cared deeply for the church. It is likely that he came to faith through Paul's teaching. Later, by spreading the Gospel in his hometown of Colossae, he started a church there, and likely participated in establishing churches in Hierapolis and Laodicea as well.
There is little information about Epaphras in the New Testament. However, the Epistle to the Colossians highlights his deep love and concern for the church of Christ. At the end of the letter, Paul says that Epaphras is "always wrestling for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God."
At that time, Epaphras was in prison with Paul and could not personally confront the false teachers who had entered the church in Colossae. But that did not mean he was helpless. Intercessory prayer is a powerful ministry. Through our prayers, God can move in circumstances, change people's minds, and help the truth come to light. Epaphras knelt in prayer for the church, and Paul also prayed for them. Let us follow the example of Epaphras and Paul: let us pray to the God who knows exactly what needs to be done and is able to accomplish all that is necessary. Then let us trust in Him and allow His peace to guard our hearts and minds.
Reflection
For whom and in what difficult circumstances are you praying with such perseverance?
