John Calvin Commentary Colossians 4:11

"and Jesus that is called Justus, who are of the circumcision: these only [are my] fellow-workers unto the kingdom of God, men that have been a comfort unto me." — Colossians 4:11 (ASV)

These only are fellow-workers, — that is, of the circumcision; for he later names others, but they were of the uncircumcision. He means, therefore, that there were few Jews at Rome who showed themselves to be helpers to the gospel; indeed, that the whole nation was opposed to Christ.

At the same time, by workers he means those only who were endowed with gifts that were necessary for promoting the gospel. But where was Peter at that time? Unquestionably, he has either been shamefully passed over here, and not without injustice, or else those who maintain that he was then at Rome speak falsely.

Furthermore, he calls the gospel the kingdom of God, for it is the scepter by which God reigns over us, and by means of it we are singled out to life eternal. But we will treat this form of expression more fully elsewhere.