New Testament
Colossians 1:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You also learned from Epaphras, our dear fellowservant, who is a faithful minister of Christ for you.
Compare translations
As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ;
What Colossians 1:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul highlights Epaphras, a devoted servant of Christ, who played a crucial role in teaching the Colossians about their faith. Epaphras is described as a dear fellow servant, emphasizing the close bond and mutual support among believers. His faithfulness in ministry shows how important it is to share knowledge and encouragement within a community. The Colossians learned from him, which indicates that their understanding of Christ was nurtured through his dedication. This relationship illustrates the value of mentorship and the impact one person can have on many. It reminds us that we are not alone in our spiritual journeys; we have guides and friends who help us grow. Epaphras's commitment serves as an example for us to be faithful in our own roles, whether as teachers, friends, or supporters in our communities. By learning from others and sharing our experiences, we can strengthen our faith and the faith of those around us. This verse encourages us to appreciate those who invest in our spiritual growth.
How to apply Colossians 1:7 to your life
Consider who has influenced your faith journey and express gratitude to them. Look for opportunities to mentor others in their spiritual growth. Remember that your actions can inspire and teach those around you, just as Epaphras did for the Colossians. Be a faithful servant in your community, sharing knowledge and encouragement with others. Your impact can be profound and lasting, just like Epaphras's was for the Colossians.
Curated for this public verse page. Colossians Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Colossians 1:7
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Colossians 1:7
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Colossians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Colossae
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Colossians 1:7 mean?
Colossians 1:7 highlights Epaphras as a dedicated servant of Christ who taught the Colossians about their faith. It emphasizes the importance of mentorship and community support in spiritual growth.
Who is Epaphras in Colossians 1:7?
Epaphras is described as a dear fellow servant and a faithful minister of Christ. He played a significant role in teaching and nurturing the faith of the Colossians.
What is the significance of being a 'faithful minister' in Colossians 1:7?
Being a 'faithful minister' signifies a commitment to serving others and sharing knowledge about Christ. It reflects the importance of dedication and reliability in spiritual leadership.
How does Colossians 1:7 relate to mentorship?
Colossians 1:7 illustrates the value of mentorship by showing how Epaphras influenced the Colossians' understanding of faith. It encourages believers to support and guide one another in their spiritual journeys.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.