Tell Archippus: “See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord.”

--Parallel verses:
‭‭Philemon‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭3‬
Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our dear friend and fellow worker— also to Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier—and to the church that meets in your home: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

I find this an interesting way to end this book. It makes me think of the parting words of a man before he heads out on a long journey. Paul loves the Colossians dearly and has pulled together every resource he can to bless them. He has crafted a letter to encourage, correct, and motivate them in the truth. He has sent some of his best companions and closest friends to help and encourage them.

Now he gives specific instruction to Archippus: “See to it that you complete the ministry you have in the Lord.” We learn in Philemon that Archippus is also called a “fellow soldier”. This is high praise from Paul, who understood working in military ranks (as he was a soldier of sorts, an enforcer, as a Pharisee). The reference here clearly indicates a strong faith, an unwillingness to bend the truth, and a tenacity to accomplish the tasks set before him and see them through to completion, no matter the cost.

The Colossian church, as we have studied, was clearly under spiritual attack, as heresy (false teaching or pairing the truth of God’s Word with lies or deceptions) had entered the church. So Paul’s charge here serves a few purposes: 1) He is encouraging Archippus to stand firm in his faith, 2) He is affirming his authority to lead in the church, by singling him out. (He is likely the pastor/leader of the church in Colossae at this point, or very high up in leadership). 3) He is telling the Colossians that Archippus not only has his blessing to lead, but has been directly called by God to lead them.

What a strong statement he makes here at the end of the book, in support of Archippus and his leadership. He is putting those who oppose Archippus “on notice”, so to speak.

What has God called me to do in boldness that may not be popular, or may be very hard?

Dear Lord, thank you for your truth and your Spirit of righteousness that is communicated through Paul. I love how Paul called out Archippus specifically for special encouragement, at the same time reinforcing his authority to lead. Help me to also be an encourager of others and call them to stand up and lead in your ways and your works.