For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis.
Parallel translations
- WEB For I testify about him, that he has great zeal for you, and for those in Laodicea, and for those in Hierapolis.
- BSB For I testify about him that he goes to great pains for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis.
- ESV For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis.
- NKJV For I bear him witness that he has a great zeal for you, and those who are in Laodicea, and those in Hierapolis.
- NASB For I testify for him that he has a deep concern for you and for those who are in Laodicea and Hierapolis.
- NLT I can assure you that he prays hard for you and also for the believers in Laodicea and Hierapolis.
Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations taken from the (NASB®) New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. lockman.org
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Quick answer
Paul testifies to Epaphras's deep concern and hard work for the believers in Colossae, Laodicea, and Hierapolis. It matters because it affirms the genuine, wide-reaching care of a faithful gospel minister.
Overview
Paul vouches for Epaphras's 'great zeal' on behalf of the three neighboring Lycus Valley churches. This commendation strengthens Epaphras's standing and reputation among them. It illustrates the costly, earnest care that pastors and intercessors devote to the people of Christ.
Cross-references & the web
Cross-references · 6
- Col 2:1For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;
- Rom 10:2For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.
- 2 Cor 8:3For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;
- Rev 1:11Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.
- Rev 3:14–18And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;
- Col 4:15–16Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house.
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Original language
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