Who Was Epaphras?
Quick Summary
Epaphras was an early Christian leader closely associated with the church in Colossae and a trusted coworker of the apostle Paul. Mentioned in Colossians and Philemon, Epaphras is remembered for his faithfulness, pastoral concern, and persistent prayer on behalf of the churches he served. Scripture presents him as a model of quiet, sustaining leadership in the life of the early church.
Introduction
Epaphras is not a headline figure in the New Testament. He does not travel as widely as Paul, preach dramatic sermons, or perform public miracles. Yet the brief references to him offer a remarkably rich portrait of faithful ministry. Epaphras represents the kind of leadership without which the early church could not have survived: rooted, relational, and prayerful.
Paul’s words about Epaphras are warm and personal. They reveal deep trust and gratitude. In Epaphras, Scripture preserves an image of discipleship that is marked less by visibility and more by perseverance.
Epaphras and the Church in Colossae
Epaphras is first mentioned in Colossians 1:7, where Paul describes him as “our beloved fellow servant” and “a faithful minister of Christ.” This language suggests that Epaphras was instrumental in bringing the gospel to Colossae and possibly to neighboring cities such as Laodicea and Hierapolis.
Unlike Paul, who had not personally visited Colossae, Epaphras appears to be a local leader. His ministry emerges from within the community rather than being imposed from outside. The church’s existence and growth are closely tied to his work.
Epaphras as a Bridge Between Paul and the Churches
Epaphras serves as a vital link between Paul and the Colossian believers. He brings news of the church’s faith and love to Paul during Paul’s imprisonment (Colossians 1:8). At the same time, he likely carries Paul’s teaching and encouragement back to the community.
This role requires discernment and trust. Epaphras must communicate honestly about challenges facing the church while remaining faithful to the gospel Paul proclaims. His position underscores the collaborative nature of early Christian leadership.
Epaphras the Intercessor
One of the most striking descriptions of Epaphras appears in Colossians 4:12–13. Paul writes that Epaphras is “always wrestling in his prayers” for the believers, praying that they may stand mature and fully assured in God’s will.
The image is vivid. Prayer is described as labor, even struggle. Epaphras’ ministry does not end with preaching or organizing. It continues in sustained intercession. His faithfulness is measured not by results alone, but by devotion.
Epaphras and Suffering
In Philemon 1:23, Paul refers to Epaphras as a “fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus.” This detail suggests that Epaphras shares in Paul’s suffering, possibly imprisoned for the sake of the gospel.
The reference is brief, but significant. Epaphras’ faithfulness carries a cost. His leadership is not sheltered from hardship. Scripture presents suffering not as a detour from ministry, but as one of its realities.
Theological Significance of Epaphras’ Ministry
Epaphras embodies a theology of presence. He remains connected to his people even when physically absent. He holds communities together through prayer, teaching, and concern.
His story reminds readers that the church is built not only by apostles and evangelists, but by local leaders who remain committed over time. Epaphras shows how the gospel takes root through steady care rather than spectacle.
A Classic Commentary Perspective
In his commentary on Colossians, James D. G. Dunn notes that Epaphras functions as the primary pastoral voice behind the letter. Dunn emphasizes that Paul’s confidence in the Colossian church is inseparable from his confidence in Epaphras’ ministry. The church’s health reflects the faithfulness of its shepherd.
Why Epaphras Matters
Epaphras matters because his ministry looks like much of what sustains the church today: prayer, teaching, encouragement, and endurance. He does not dominate the narrative, yet his presence is felt throughout it.
Scripture remembers Epaphras to affirm that faithfulness behind the scenes is not forgotten. The church advances through people who remain steadfast long after initial excitement fades.
FAQ
Was Epaphras an apostle?
No. Epaphras is described as a minister and fellow servant, not as one of the apostles.
Did Epaphras found the church in Colossae?
While Scripture does not say this explicitly, Paul’s language strongly suggests that Epaphras played a central role in establishing the church.
Why is Epaphras known for prayer?
Paul highlights Epaphras’ persistent intercession, describing him as laboring intensely in prayer for the believers’ spiritual maturity.
Where is Epaphras mentioned in the Bible?
Epaphras appears in Colossians 1:7–8, Colossians 4:12–13, and Philemon 1:23.
See Also
Works Consulted
Dunn, James D. G. The Epistles to the Colossians and to Philemon. New International Greek Testament Commentary. Eerdmans, 1996.
Moo, Douglas J. The Letters to the Colossians and to Philemon. Pillar New Testament Commentary. Eerdmans, 2008.
The New Revised Standard Version Bible.
