Colossians 4:7-12

Usually, at the end of Paul’s letters, there are “greetings” to Paul’s friends, which most of us probably skim over or ignore. But yet within these greetings there are some wonderful challenges and insights - and this week’s greetings fit very well into Father’s Day!

In Colossians 4:7–12, Paul lists his ministry partners and emphasizes the importance of spiritual maturity, teamwork, and relational health in the church. The passage highlights key figures—Tychicus, Onesimus, Aristarchus, Mark, Justus, and Epaphras—each playing vital roles in Paul’s mission. The sermon draws out principles for church life today, especially for fathers and leaders, urging a shift from juvenile, celebrity-driven Christianity to mature, relational, team-based ministry.

Key Takeaways

1. The Importance of Teamwork in Ministry

• Paul did not minister alone; he relied on a diverse team, showing that Christian leadership and mission are inherently collaborative.

• Biblical examples abound: Jesus had the Twelve, Paul and Peter had teams, and even in the Old Testament, leaders like Moses and David worked with others.

• The church should reflect this model, emphasizing team leadership over celebrity or hierarchical structures.

2. Profiles of Paul’s Team Members

• Tychicus: A trusted messenger and faithful servant, repeatedly entrusted with delivering Paul’s letters and updates.

• Onesimus: Once a runaway slave, now a beloved brother and equal in Christ, demonstrating the gospel’s power to transform and reconcile.

• Aristarchus: A loyal companion who endured hardship alongside Paul, embodying faithfulness and courage.

• Mark: Despite an earlier conflict with Paul, he is restored to ministry, showing the importance of reconciliation in Christian relationships.

• Justus: Another faithful Jewish Christian who comforted Paul during imprisonment.

• Epaphras: A local leader known for fervent prayer and commitment to the maturity and assurance of the Colossian church.

3. The Biblical Principle of Team

• Teamwork is rooted in God’s design (e.g., the Trinity, family, church leadership).

• At Hope Rock Church, this model is applied through a team of elders and a collaborative approach to ministry, worship, and broader partnerships (e.g., with the NCMI team).

• The church is not a business or celebrity platform but a family of partners on mission together.

4. Relational Maturity and Reconciliation

• Paul’s restored relationship with Mark highlights the need to address relational breakdowns biblically—through forgiveness, not avoidance or gossip.

• Healthy relationships require maturity, humility, and a willingness to reconcile.

5. The Call for Spiritual Fathers and Mothers

• The church today is full of guides and experts but lacks true spiritual fathers and mothers who nurture, lead, and model maturity.

• Both men and women are called to this parental role, shaping the next generation with wisdom, love, and assurance in the faith.

6. Marks of Spiritual Maturity

• Assurance: Mature believers are secure in their salvation, trusting Christ’s finished work rather than striving for self-righteousness.

• Openness to the Holy Spirit: Maturity means yielding to the Spirit’s leading, not clinging to religious comfort zones.

• Pioneering and Multiplication: Mature leaders look to expand God’s kingdom, not just maintain the status quo.

• Stewardship of Resources: Time, money, and talents are invested for kingdom purposes, not personal comfort or status.

• Teamwork: Mature believers understand their need for others and value partnership over individualism.

7. The Challenge to Fathers (and Leaders)

• The church and society desperately need spiritual fathers—those who lead with maturity, invest in others, and model Christlike love and service.

• This message is not about criticizing men but calling them (and all believers) to step into mature, nurturing, and pioneering roles for the sake of the church and the next generation.

8. A Call to Grow Up

• Paul contrasts childish ways with mature love (1 Corinthians 13:11), urging believers to move beyond superficial, celebrity-driven, or comfort-seeking Christianity.

• Maturity is marked by love, service, generosity, and perseverance.

Conclusion

The passage and message call the church to embrace maturity through teamwork, healthy relationships, spiritual parenthood, and kingdom-minded stewardship. The challenge is to move from a juvenile, individualistic faith to a mature, collaborative, and pioneering community—reflecting the heart and mission of Christ.