“Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, greets you, and Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you received commandments, “if he comes to you, receive him”)”

Here is another godly brother mentioned who is a fellow prisoner with the Apostle Paul, in chains for the sake of Christ. He was involved with Paul in his many exploits for the faith, including being arrested at Ephesus. He was obviously a dear brother to Paul and Paul is keen that his greeting go to the saints at Colosse.

Also, Mark, otherwise called John Mark, which is striking as Mark disappointed the Apostle at one point in his life by going back from the ministry. After a fruitless mission, the young servant of the Lord is discouraged enough to leave the ministry and return home. Paul was disappointed by this and it caused an argument between Paul and Barnabas. Barnabas took John Mark with him in his ministry where he again proves himself. John mark is also the writer of the book of Mark, and loves the Lord Jesus with all his heart. Now, Paul has forgiven and reinstated him into the ministry and in good faith.

Barnabas also is a contender for the faith and a faithful administrator in the church. Even though he had a sharp disagreement with the Apostle Paul, there is now no rancour and the division has healed up and the characters involved have been changed and reunited by the Lord.

It is refreshing to reads the nuts ands bolts of the relationships of these mighty men of God, who had differences that seemed to tear them apart, yet they were able to resolve their issues and unity in the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Each has proved themselves as faithful servants of the Lord, but all having failures and misunderstandings as well. They are united in doctrine and faith and are all subject to the teaching of the scripture and therefore have all things in common. There is no theological divisions or arguments about the truth of God, for all are devoted to the Scripture and to the Lord. The Lord honours them with unity and peace. They support each other in the spread of the gospel and in the encouragement of the churches.

Paul is urging the Christians at Colosse to welcome all who come with Paul’s blessing and commandment.