NET Bible

Exhortation to Households

^4:1 Masters, treat your slaves with justice and fairness, because you know that you also have a master in heaven.

Exhortation to Pray for the Success of Paul’s Mission

^4:2 Be devoted to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving. ^4:3 At the same time pray for us too, that God may open a door for the message so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. ^4:4 Pray that I may make it known as I should. ^4:5 Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunities. ^4:6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer everyone.

Personal Greetings and Instructions

^4:7 Tychicus, a dear brother, faithful minister, and fellow slave in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me. ^4:8 I sent him to you for this very purpose that you may know how we are doing and that he may encourage your hearts. ^4:9 I sent him with Onesimus, the faithful and dear brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here.

^4:10 Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, sends you greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (about whom you received instructions; if he comes to you, welcome him). ^4:11 And Jesus who is called Justus also sends greetings. In terms of Jewish converts, these are the only fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me. ^4:12 Epaphras, who is one of you and a slave of Christ, greets you. He is always struggling in prayer on your behalf, so that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. ^4:13 For I can testify that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and Hierapolis. ^4:14 Our dear friend Luke the physician and Demas greet you. ^4:15 Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters who are in Laodicea and to Nympha and the church that meets in her house. ^4:16 And after you have read this letter, have it read to the church of Laodicea. In turn, read the letter from Laodicea as well. ^4:17 And tell Archippus, “See to it that you complete the ministry you received in the Lord.”

^4:18 I, Paul, write this greeting by my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.