Scripture to Read: Colossians 4:10–11
God continued to allow Paul to share about his brothers in Christ as he wrote to the Christians in Colossae. God had Paul write in Colossians 4:10–11, “Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, sends you his greetings; and also Barnabas’s cousin Mark (about whom you received instructions; if he comes to you, welcome him); 11 and also Jesus who is called Justus; these are the only fellow workers for the kingdom of God who are from the circumcision, and they have proved to be an encouragement to me.” Aristarchus was a fellow worker with Paul. He is first mentioned in Acts 19:21–29 during the riot in Ephesus. Gaius and Aristarchus were seized by the angry mob (Acts 19:29) until the city clerk was able to persuade the crowd to disperse. Aristarchus traveled with Paul on his initial trip to Rome (Acts 27:1–2). The last time Aristarchus is mentioned is in the Book of Philemon. God had Paul write, “Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, greets you, 24 as do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, Luke, my fellow workers” (Philemon 1:23–24). Paul valued Aristarchus as his brother in Christ. Paul commends several individuals, including Justus, for their faithful service and support in the work of the ministry. God wants us to understand the importance of fellow workers serving together for the sake of the kingdom of God. Justus and others are examples of Christians serving with Paul in the advancement of the Gospel. Their efforts were a source of comfort and encouragement to Paul, especially during his imprisonment in Rome. As Christians, we need each other.
Challenge & Application
Who are the Christians in your life who are willing to serve alongside you no matter the cost?
Why is it important to have other Christians in our lives who are sources of comfort and encouragement?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!