All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord:
Read it in contextFinal Exhortations and Greetings
Start reading at Colossians 4:1 (Colossians 4:1 to Colossians 4:18).
The verse is part of the concluding chapter of the epistle, which includes final exhortations, personal greetings, and instructions. Recommending the start of the chapter provides the full context of Paul's concluding remarks.
4:1Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.
4:2Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;
4:3Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:
4:4That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.
4:5Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
4:6Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.
4:7All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you, who is a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord:
4:8Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that he might know your estate, and comfort your hearts;
4:9With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here.
4:10Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)
4:11And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me.
4:12Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.
4:13For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis.
4:14Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you.
4:15Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house.
4:16And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea.
4:17And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.
4:18The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen.
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Who
Who wrote the book? Paul is the named author, with Timothy included in the greeting and Paul's own greeting at the close. Biblical references: Colossians 1:1; Colossians 4:18. stated in the text
Who was present or being addressed in this passage? In the surrounding chapter context (Colossians 4:1–4:18): Paul addresses masters, urges the church to pray and act wisely toward outsiders, and sends greetings and instructions involving neighboring churches. stated in the text
Who was the book written to? The saints and faithful brethren in Christ at Colossae. The letter was also to be read in the church of the Laodiceans. Biblical references: Colossians 1:2; Colossians 4:16. stated in the text
What
What is the main event or theme? The main theme of this verse is Paul's intention to send Tychicus to the Colossians to inform them of his personal circumstances ('my state') and to commend Tychicus as a 'beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord'.
What is God revealing? God is revealing the importance of faithful service and fellowship within the body of Christ, even amidst challenging circumstances like Paul's imprisonment. He highlights the character of a dedicated servant through Tychicus, who is entrusted with delivering important updates and encouragement to the churches.
What is the literary style? The literary style of Colossians is an epistle (a letter). This specific section (Colossians 4:7-18) serves as a personal closing, including greetings, commendations of fellow workers, and final instructions.
When
When was it written? The epistle to the Colossians was written approximately A.D. 60 to 62.
When does the event take place? The events described in the letter, including Paul's imprisonment, occurred during the period when the letter was written, around A.D. 60 to 62.
Where
Where did it happen? The letter was written from Rome, where Paul was imprisoned. Tychicus was sent from Rome to Colosse to deliver the letter and Paul's personal update.
Where was the author located? The author, Paul, was located in Rome, specifically in prison, when he wrote this letter.
Where does the context start?
This passage sits in Final Exhortations and Greetings (Colossians 4:7 to Colossians 4:18).
Start reading at Colossians 4:1. The verse is part of the concluding chapter of the epistle, which includes final exhortations, personal greetings, and instructions. Recommending the start of the chapter provides the full context of Paul's concluding remarks.
How
How does it fit the broader context? Colossians 4:7 initiates the concluding section of Paul's letter, transitioning from general exhortations to personal matters. It introduces Tychicus as the trusted messenger who will deliver the epistle and provide firsthand information about Paul's well-being and the circumstances in Rome, thereby connecting the author with the audience and offering comfort and reassurance. interpretation
How does it point to Christ? Tychicus is described as a 'faithful minister and fellowservant in the Lord,' highlighting that all Christian service, including communication and encouragement within the church, is ultimately service to Christ. Believers are called to emulate such faithfulness and dedication in their roles, recognizing Christ as their ultimate Master and the one to whom their service is rendered. interpretation
How do I apply it today? This passage encourages believers today to be faithful in their service to the Lord and to one another, just as Tychicus was. It underscores the importance of clear communication, mutual care, and encouragement within the Christian community, especially when separated by distance or circumstances. We are called to be reliable and loving 'fellowservants in the Lord,' sharing burdens and joys. interpretation
Cross references from CrossReferences-org (CC BY 4.0).
Macro-Structure
See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.
Colossians 4
Prefilled outline, not yet reviewed.
Paul and Timothy address the saints and faithful brethren in Christ at Colosse. The letter presents Christ's sufficiency and supremacy, warns against teaching that displaces Him, and describes the conduct of those who have put on the new man. Verse 1 completes the instruction to servants and masters begun in Colossians 3.
Connection to the wholeThe household instruction closes, and the church is directed toward persevering prayer and gracious conduct toward those outside.
Connection to the wholeThe messengers and greetings show the church's place among fellow labourers, ending with directions to share the letter and fulfil entrusted ministry.
interpretation
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.
Colossians
Prefilled outline, not yet reviewed.
Paul and Timothy address the saints and faithful brethren in Christ at Colosse. The letter presents Christ's sufficiency and supremacy, warns against teaching that displaces Him, and describes the conduct of those who have put on the new man.
FocusFulness, baptism, and freedom from false demands
Connection to the wholePaul warns against rival teaching by grounding the readers in Christ, His fulness, and their relationship to His death and resurrection.
Connection to the wholeThe readers are called to seek things above and put away the old conduct, applying the new life to households, work, prayer, and speech.