Walk in wisdom toward them . . . without

What sort of impression do our values and behaviour make on people whom Paul describes as being ‘without’, v. 5? In other words, what do unsaved people around us think of how we treat each other, and them? The practical implications of the end of chapter 3 of this Epistle are extended in today’s reading.

The Colossian Christians are exhorted here to show a prayerful interest in the gospel, reflected in their prayers for Paul in his apostolic preaching. Paul himself would seek to preach plainly, as he ought. He expects that they will also be interested to hear about the spread of the gospel.

But the Christians will also make a contribution to the cause of the gospel by their own conversations and attitudes. Charitable opinions and wholesome values expressed make a vital contribution to the spread of the truth of the gospel.

We notice here how the believers show an interest in each other. The ungodly take note of this. Paul himself, though these Colossians were not his converts, is interested in their general and, specifically, spiritual welfare.

We notice the tactful reference to Epaphras, ‘one of yourselves’. Paul is anxious to give moral support to a good Christian who is known to the Colossians, indeed who probably had led them to Christ.

We notice that Paul includes other fellow-workers, Luke and Demas, men also known to the Colossians. He also sends greetings to Christians in a neighbouring assembly, and to an individual believer whose home is used as a meeting-place for the assembly. This recognition of the contribution to Christian witness made by relatively obscure believers betokens true spiritual values. The influence of such consistent but quiet believers in a district often has an impact on public perceptions of the gospel which only the judgement seat of Christ will fully reveal.

What about Archippus? We are not told what his role was in the divine plan. Paul’s exhortation to him implies that Archippus knew what God expected of him. What does He expect of each of us? May we seek to fulfil what He has entrusted to us. It may not be noticed by many, but it is significant.