Colossians 4:1-6

Listen to Colossians 4:1-6

1 Masters, deal justly and equitably with your slaves, knowing that you too have a Master in Heaven.

2 Be earnest and unwearied in prayer, being on the alert in it and in your giving of thanks.

3 And pray at the same time for us also, that God may open for us a door for preaching, for us to tell the truth concerning Christ for the sake of which I am even a prisoner.

4 Then I shall proclaim it fully, as it is my duty to do.

5 Behave wisely in relation to the outside world, buying up your opportunities.

6 Let your language be always seasoned with the salt of grace, so that you may know how to give every man a fitting answer.

Read Chapter Compare Translations

Colossians 4:1-6 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO COLOSSIANS 4

This chapter begins with an exhortation to masters to behave towards their servants in a just and equitable manner, from the consideration of their having a master in heaven, which should have concluded the preceding one; and in it the apostle gives some general exhortations, and some particular instructions about reading this, and another epistle, and stirring up their minister to his duty; and great part of it is taken up in expressing his love to the Colossians, and in the salutations of others, and of himself. The general exhortations are to prayer, with watchfulness and thankfulness, not only for themselves, but especially for the ministers of the Gospel, Col 4:2-4 and next to a wise behaviour towards them that were of the world, Col 4:5 and also to a prudent conversation, particularly in language, with everyone, Col 4:6. And then the apostle proceeds to declare his great affection for them, and care of them, which he showed by sending two proper persons to them from him, partly to make known his affairs to them, and partly to know the state and condition they were in, and comfort them, Col 4:7-9 and next follow the salutations of various persons to them, who are mentioned by name, and whose characters are given, Col 4:10-15. And then he orders them to read this epistle in the church of Laodicea, and also that which came from that place, Col 4:16 and to admonish Archippus to take heed to, and fulfil his ministry, since it was what he had received in the Lord, Col 4:17. And then closes the epistle with his own salutation and benediction, entreating a remembrance of him and his bonds, Col 4:18.

Taken from John Gill's Exposition of the Bible

Unlock Deeper Insights: Get Over 20 Commentaries with Plus! Subscribe Now

Colossians 4:1-6 Study Resources

Sermons

The Purpose and Power of Prayer Part 2

John Randall

You might be pretty good about praying for others, but do you also ask others to pray for you? Both are important in our daily walk, and we see that modeled for us by the apostle Paul. Today on a Daily Walk pastor John Randall reveals how Paul didn’t shy away from asking the church to pray for him and the work of the ministry! And we shouldn’t either. Let’s turn to Colossians chapter four and take a look at what the conduct and conversation of the Christian should be!

Listen

The Purpose and Power of Prayer Part 1

John Randall

What would you say you’re devoted to these days? Would it be entertainment or work and money… or maybe you’re family? But how many of us would actually say we’re devoted to prayer? In chapter four verse two we read, “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” It’s a rather brief statement, but it’s packed with helpful instruction for our daily walk.

Listen

Serving Jesus on the Job Part 2

James Kaddis

Do you ever feel overworked, over-regulated, under-leisured, under-benefited? Many Americans do these days. Today on Light on the Hill we’re encouraged to stay close to the Lord and constantly praying to Him while we’re working. Most working adults spend a good portion of the day on the job, and this is time that should be well spent, and done for the glory of God.

Listen

Serving Jesus on the Job Part 1

James Kaddis

It’s said that hard work reveals the worker’s true character! Some turn up their sleeves, others turn up their nose, and some don’t bother to turn up at all. We’re in a series based in Colossians. In chapter four we’re going to learn how to be a godly and Christ-honoring employee or employer.

Listen

The Purpose and Power of Prayer, Part 2

John Randall

Listen

The Purpose and Power of Prayer, Part 1

John Randall

What would you say you’re devoted to these days? Would it be work and money, or maybe you’re family? But how many of us would actually say we’re devoted to prayer? In chapter four verse two we read, “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” It’s a rather brief statement, but it’s packed with helpful instruction for our prayer lives.

Listen

The Weymouth New Testament is in the public domain.