King James Version
What Does Colossians 4:11 Mean?
“And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me.”
Context
9
With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here.
10
Aristarchus my fellowprisoner saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas, (touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him;)
11
And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me.
12
Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. labouring: or, striving complete: or, filled
13
For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(11) **Jesus, which is called Justus.**—The surname “Justus” is found in Acts 1:23; Acts 18:7; we learn from tradition that by it, or by its equivalent, St. James, “the Lord’s brother,” was known. In this case it is curious that one who bore our Lord’s name should also have been known by a surname which was His peculiar title, “the Just One.” (See Acts 22:14; and comp. Luke 23:47.) Of this Justus there is no other notice, not even in the Epistle to Philemon, in which all the other names recur.
**Who are of the circumcision. These only . . .**—The juxtaposition of the two notices seems to indicate—what is in itself likely—that the brethren who held aloof from St. Paul in “strife and envy,” and whose conduct produced that sense of isolation of which he speaks so pathetically in Philippians 2:20, were “of the circumcision.” Out of them, only Aristarchus, Mark, and Justus were true fellow-workers, and as such “a comfort” to the Apostolic labourer.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Colossians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Colossians 4:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Colossians 4:11
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge