King James Version

What Does Colossians 4:14 Mean?

Colossians 4:14 in the King James Version says “Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you. — study this verse from Colossians chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you.

Colossians 4:14 · KJV


Context

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.

14

Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you.

15

Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house.

16

And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you. Paul mentions two more companions. "Luke, the beloved physician" (Loukas ho iatros ho agapētos, Λουκᾶς ὁ ἰατρὸς ὁ ἀγαπητός) identifies Luke by profession and affection. Luke authored the third gospel and Acts, documenting early Christianity with historical precision. His medical training possibly served Paul's chronic physical ailments. Luke's faithful companionship, especially during imprisonments, exemplifies loyal friendship.

"Demas" receives no descriptive commendation, just bare name. Later, Paul sadly reports: "Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world" (2 Timothy 4:10). Here, Demas still served alongside Paul, but his heart's trajectory toward apostasy may have already been discernible. Not all who start well finish well; spiritual consistency requires ongoing vigilance against worldly allurement.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Luke was Gentile (apparently the only Gentile NT author) and educated professional (physicians required extensive training). His voluntary service to Paul despite his professional status demonstrates Christianity's appeal across social classes and Luke's genuine devotion transcending career considerations. Demas's eventual apostasy reminds that proximity to godly leaders doesn't guarantee perseverance; each individual must maintain personal faithfulness to Christ.

Reflection Questions

  1. What professional skills or resources could you dedicate to gospel service like Luke dedicated medical training?
  2. How do you maintain vigilance against 'loving this present world' and drifting from faithfulness like Demas?
  3. Who provides you faithful companionship through trials, and do you treasure and reciprocate such friendship?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 9 words
ἀσπάζεται1 of 9

greet

G782

to enfold in the arms, i.e., (by implication) to salute, (figuratively) to welcome

ὑμᾶς2 of 9

you

G5209

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

Λουκᾶς3 of 9

Luke

G3065

lucas, a christian

4 of 9
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἰατρὸς5 of 9

physician

G2395

a physician

6 of 9
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀγαπητὸς7 of 9

the beloved

G27

beloved

καὶ8 of 9

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

Δημᾶς9 of 9

Demas

G1214

demas, a christian


Study Guide

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 4:14 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 4:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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