Colossians 4:17

Authorized King James Version

And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
εἴπατε
G2036
say
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#3
Ἀρχίππῳ·
G751
to Archippus
horse-ruler; archippus, a christian
#4
Βλέπε
G991
Take heed
to look at (literally or figuratively)
#5
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
διακονίαν
G1248
to the ministry
attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the christian teacher, or technically of the diaco
#7
ἣν
G3739
which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#8
παρέλαβες
G3880
thou hast received
to receive near, i.e., associate with oneself (in any familiar or intimate act or relation); by analogy, to assume an office; figuratively, to learn
#9
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#10
κυρίῳ
G2962
the Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#11
ἵνα
G2443
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#12
αὐτὴν
G846
it
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#13
πληροῖς
G4137
thou fulfil
to make replete, i.e., (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute

Analysis

Within the broader context of Colossians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Colossians.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Colossians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection