“As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ.” — Colossians 1:7 (KJV)
The Identity of Epaphras
Epaphras was a prominent Christian leader in the early Church, primarily associated with the Lycus River Valley in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Though his name is a shortened version of Epaphroditus, he is distinct from the Epaphroditus of Philippi. Epaphras was likely a convert of the Apostle Paul during Paul’s three-year ministry in Ephesus, later returning to his home region to spread the Gospel.
The Planter of Churches
Epaphras is credited with being the founder of the church at Colossae. His reach, however, extended beyond a single city. Scripture indicates he was instrumental in establishing the work in:
- Colossae
- Laodicea
- Hierapolis
Paul acknowledges that the Colossians learned the grace of God through Epaphras, confirming his role as their primary teacher and spiritual father.
The Wrestling Intercessor
One of the most stirring descriptions of any individual in the New Testament is given to Epaphras regarding his prayer life. While Paul was imprisoned in Rome, Epaphras was there with him, but his heart remained with his flock. Paul writes:
“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.” (Colossians 4:12)
The Greek word for “labouring fervently” is agonizomai, from which we get “agonize.” It depicts Epaphras wrestling in prayer, contending for the spiritual maturity and steadfastness of the believers against the encroaching “Colossian Heresy.”
The Fellow Prisoner
In the short epistle to Philemon, Paul refers to Epaphras as his “fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus” (Philemon 1:23). Whether he was legally imprisoned alongside Paul or chose to remain in voluntary confinement to serve the Apostle, he shared in the afflictions of the Gospel.
The Forensic Legacy
Epaphras stands as the New Testament model of the faithful deputy. He did not seek his own glory or the limelight of the Apostleship; rather, he took the truth he heard from Paul, carried it back to his own people, and protected them through both diligent teaching and agonizing prayer. He is the “faithful minister” who ensured the King’s message reached the furthest reaches of the Lycus Valley.