Matthew Henry Commentary Colossians 4
Matthew Henry Commentary
Colossians 4
Matthew Henry Commentary
Colossians 4
"Masters, render unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven." — Colossians 4:1 (ASV)
The apostle proceeds with the duty of masters to their servants. Not only is justice required of them, but strict equity and kindness. Let them deal with servants as they expect God should deal with themselves.
"Continue stedfastly in prayer, watching therein with thanksgiving; withal praying for us also, that God may open unto us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds; that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer each one." — Colossians 4:2-6 (ASV)
No duties can be performed correctly unless we persevere in fervent prayer, and watch in prayer with thanksgiving.
The people are to pray particularly for their ministers.
Believers are exhorted to proper conduct towards unbelievers. Be careful in all interactions with them, to do them good, and recommend religion by all appropriate means. Diligence in using time wisely commends religion to the favorable opinion of others. Even what is only carelessness may cause a lasting prejudice against the truth.
Let all speech be discreet and timely, as is fitting for Christians. Though our speech is not always about grace, it must always be with grace. Though our speech may be about common things, it must still be in a Christian manner. Grace is the salt that seasons our speech and keeps it from becoming corrupt. It is not enough to answer what is asked, unless we also answer correctly.
"All my affairs shall Tychicus make known unto you, the beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow-servant in the Lord: whom I have sent you for this very purpose, that ye may know our state, and that he may comfort your hearts; together with Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things that [are done] here." — Colossians 4:7-9 (ASV)
Ministers are servants to Christ and fellow-servants to one another. They have one Lord, though they have different stations and powers for service.
It is a great comfort under the troubles and difficulties of life to have fellow Christians caring for us. Circumstances of life make no difference in the spiritual relationship among sincere Christians; they partake of the same privileges and are entitled to the same respect.
What amazing changes Divine grace makes! Faithless servants become faithful and beloved brethren, and some who had done wrong become fellow-workers of good.
"Aristarchus my fellow-prisoner saluteth you, and Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (touching whom ye received commandments; if he come unto you, receive him), 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. Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, saluteth you, always striving for you in his prayers, that ye may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God. For I bear him witness, that he hath much labor for you, and for them in Laodicea, and for them in Hierapolis. Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas salute you. Salute the brethren that are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church that is in their house. And when this epistle hath been read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye also read the epistle from Laodicea. And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it. The salutation of me Paul with mine own hand. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you." — Colossians 4:10-18 (ASV)
Paul had differed with Barnabas on account of this Mark. Yet he is not only reconciled but also recommends him to the churches. This is an example of a truly Christian and forgiving spirit. If people have been guilty of a fault, it must not always be remembered against them. We must forget as well as forgive.
The apostle had comfort in the communion of saints and ministers. One is his fellow servant, another his fellow prisoner, and all his fellow workers, working out their own salvation and endeavoring to promote the salvation of others.
The effectual, fervent prayer is the prevailing prayer and avails much.
The smiles, flatteries, or frowns of the world, the spirit of error, or the working of self-love, leads many to a way of preaching and living that comes far short of fulfilling their ministry. But those who preach the same doctrine as Paul, and follow his example, may expect the Divine favor and blessing.
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