Colossians 4:11
“And 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.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Jesus called Justus also greets them; these Jewish believers are Paul's only such fellow workers for the kingdom, and a comfort to him.
What Does Colossians 4:11 Mean?
Paul names another companion, Jesus, which is called Justus, completing a small group he describes as of the circumcision -- fellow believers of Jewish background working alongside him.
He notes that these only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God among that group, and adds the touching detail that they have been a comfort unto me. Paul, in his imprisonment, treasures the companionship of those who labor with him for God's kingdom. The mention reveals both the cost of his ministry, with few such coworkers near, and the deep solace their presence brings. For the Colossians, it humanizes the great apostle, showing a man who leans on faithful friends. The kingdom of God advances through such laborers, and their fellowship can be a genuine comfort in hard places. Paul does not hide his need for the encouragement these brothers provide.