Archippus is a devoted Christian brother mentioned twice in the New Testament epistles, demonstrating his connection to the early Church and his involvement in the ministry established in Phrygia (modern Turkey). Though details of his life are scarce, his existence is a vital link between the great apostles and the practical work of local congregations.
The Phrygian Connection
Archippus’s primary context is the church in Colosse, a city known for the letter the Apostle Paul wrote to its members. The letter suggests that Archippus was either a resident of Colosse or possibly a leader in the nearby church of Laodicea. He is greeted and mentioned in the closing remarks of the letter:
“Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house. And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.” — Colossians 4:15-17 (KJV)
This specific, personalized instruction directed to Archippus—a charge given publicly to be conveyed by the Colossian brethren—suggests he was a man holding a definite and serious responsibility within the local church structure. The phrase “the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord” implies a divine calling and a specific work entrusted to him, possibly as a pastor, teacher, or elder in one of the valley churches.
A Fellow Soldier
The second mention of Archippus is found in the very personal letter of Paul to Philemon, where Archippus is identified as being part of Philemon’s immediate Christian fellowship:
“Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, And to Apphia our beloved, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house:” — Philemon 1:1-2 (KJV)
In this greeting, Paul refers to Archippus using the powerful military metaphor, “fellowsoldier.” This title, which Paul reserved for only a few trusted colleagues (like Epaphroditus in Philippians 2:25), indicates a high degree of respect and trust. It confirms that Archippus was engaged alongside Paul in the spiritual warfare of the Gospel, facing challenges and serving faithfully, likely being a co-worker with Philemon in the same local assembly.
The Lasting Admonition
The most important part of Archippus’s legacy is the exhortation given to him in the Colossian letter: “that thou fulfil it.”
This phrase is not necessarily a reprimand, but rather a powerful reminder to stay diligent, complete the task, and not grow weary in the work of the Lord. For all ministers and workers today, Archippus’s brief story serves as a timeless admonition: Whatever ministry one has received, the solemn duty is to fully and faithfully carry it out to the end.