“And say to Archippus, ‘See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord'” (Colossians 4:17 ESV).
Paul concluded his letter to the Colossians with a personal exhortation to a man named Archippus. Although his name means “master of horses,” suggesting strength and leadership, Archippus still needed encouragement to remain faithful. He is also mentioned in Paul’s letter to Philemon, where Paul calls him “our fellow soldier” (Phil. 2), implying that he served alongside Paul in gospel ministry—perhaps even in leadership at the church that met in Philemon’s home. Yet even a “fellow soldier” needs fellowship and encouragement. Notice that Paul didn’t address Archippus privately but through the church, showing that the entire fellowship bore responsibility to support and admonish him. This reflected Paul’s view of ministry as both personal and communal—each believer receives a ministry “in the Lord,” yet its fulfillment is nurtured within the body of Christ. Written from prison, Paul’s concern was not only for the spread of the gospel but also for the steadfastness of those who served it. His charge to “see that you fulfill” suggests perseverance—to carry the work through to completion, leaving nothing undone.
Like Archippus, we have each received a ministry from the Lord. It may not be a public platform or pastoral office, but God has entrusted to every believer a work to be faithfully completed. Sometimes we lose zeal or grow weary, needing the encouragement of others to press on. That’s why Paul spoke through the church—to remind us that ministry is not a solo effort. The fellowship of believers both affirms and strengthens God’s call on our lives. When brothers and sisters speak truth in love, they help us stay faithful to our God-given task. Let’s ask ourselves: Are we fulfilling the ministry we’ve received? Are we encouraging others to do the same? God has placed us in the body so that through mutual exhortation we might finish the work the Lord has given us.
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You for calling us to serve You in Christ. Help us to be faithful in the ministry You’ve entrusted to us. Give us hearts that welcome both encouragement and correction from our brothers and sisters, so that together we may fulfill Your purpose. Strengthen us to finish well, for Your glory and for the edification of Your church. In Jesus’ name, amen.