Col 4:8-9, 18 | Barnes | STEP | Verse 8. . (*) "estate" "no definition given"

Colossians 4:8-9

Verse 8. Col 4:7.

(*) "estate" "no definition given" Verse 9. With Onesimus. Who had been formerly a servant of Philemon, an inhabitant of Colosse. Phm 1:10. Onesimus had probably been recently converted; and Paul felt towards him the warm attachment of a brother, Phm 1:16. In what way he became acquainted with him is unknown. A more full account of him will be found in the Notes on the epistle to Philemon.

Who is one of you. That is, either who is from your city, or one of your own people and nation. It is clear from this, that Onesimus was from Phrygia, and probably from the city of Colosse itself. It would seem, also, that he was of a higher rank than is designated by the word "slave" now. He was, indeed, a "servant" δουλος --of Philemon; but would the apostle have addressed the Colossians, and said that he was "one of them," if he had occupied precisely the condition which is now denoted by the word slave? Would a minister of the gospel now in the Northern States, who should send a letter by a runaway slave to a community of masters at the South, say of him that he was "one of them?" Would it be kindly received, or produce a good impression, if he did? There is reason, therefore, to think that Onesimus was not a slave in the proper sense, but that he might have been a respectable youth, who had bound himself to service for a term of years, Comp. Phm 1:18.

They shall make known unto you all things which are done here. Relating to Paul himself, and the state of the church in Rome. As the epistle which Paul sent was designed not only for them, but to be a part of the volume of revealed truth, he wrote only those things which would be of permanent interest. Other matters he left for those who carried the epistle to communicate. It would also serve to give Tychius and Onesimus more respectability in view of the church at Colosse, if he referred the church to them for information on important points.

(b) "a faithful" Phm 1:10

Colossians 4:18

Verse 18. The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Probably the rest of the epistle was written by an amanuensis. As was his custom, Paul affixed his own hand to it in the form of a salutation. Comp 1Cor 16:21; 2Thes 3:17.

Remember my bonds. Also evidently written by his own hand, to make the injunction more impressive. Comp. Heb 13:3. The meaning is that they should not forget him in his confinement. They should remember that he was suffering on their account, Col 1:24, and that he was entitled to every expression of sympathy and love.

Grace be with you. Rom 16:20.

The subscription to this epistle is undoubtedly correct. See the Introduction.

(f) "salutation" 2Thes 3:17 (g) "remember my bonds" Heb 13:3,25

End of Barnes Notes on Colossians