Colossians 4

Masters, Prayer, and Wise Speech

1Masters, give your slaves what is right and fair, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. 2Devote yourselves to prayer, staying alert in it with thanksgiving. 3At the same time pray for us too, that God may open a door for the word so that we may speak Christ’s mystery, for which I am in chains, 4so that I may make it clear, as I ought to speak. 5Walk wisely toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. 6Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer each person.

Final Greetings

7Tychicus, our beloved brother, faithful servant, and fellow slave in the Lord, will tell you everything about me. 8I am sending him to you for this very reason, so that you may know about us and he may encourage your hearts, 9together with Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you everything happening here. 10Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, greets you, as does Mark, Barnabas’ cousin. You received instructions about him: if he comes to you, welcome him. 11Jesus who is called Justus also greets you. These are the only ones from the circumcision who are my fellow workers for God’s kingdom, and they have been a comfort to me. 12Epaphras, who is one of you, a slave of Christ Jesus, greets you. He is always struggling for you in his prayers so that you may stand mature and fully assured in everything God wills. 13For I testify about him that he works hard for you and for those in Laodicea and Hierapolis. 14Luke, the beloved physician, greets you, and so does Demas. 15Greet the brothers and sisters in Laodicea, and Nympha and the church in her house. 16When this letter has been read among you, make sure it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans, and you in turn should read the letter from Laodicea. 17Tell Archippus, “Pay attention to the ministry you received in the Lord, so that you fulfill it.” 18I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.