SERIES: The Book of Colossians
TEXT: Colossians 4:7–18
MESSAGE: “When Jesus Creates a Friendship”

TEXT: Colossians 4:7–18

Q: How can we forge and sustain friendships built on Jesus? Paul teaches us the importance of…(1. Being Known 2. Being Valued 3. Being Remembered)

1. Being Known (v. 7-9)

Tychicus will tell you all the news about me. He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. 8 I am sending him to you for the express purpose that you may know about our circumstances and that he may encourage your hearts. 9 He is coming with Onesimus, our faithful and dear brother, who is one of you. They will tell you everything that is happening here.

“Tychicus (a leader in the church and bearer of this letter) was a dear brother, a faithful minister, and a fellow servant with Paul in the ministry…Paul sent him to Colosse for the express purpose of informing them about his state of affairs to encourage them.” — Norman Geisler

“The greatest power for becoming a better friend is being befriended by the best Friend.” — Drew Hunter

2. Being Valued (v. 10-15)

My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.) 11 Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends greetings. These are the only Jews among my co-workers for the kingdom of God, and they have proved a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured. 13 I vouch for him that he is working hard for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis. 14 Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings. 15 Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house.

“For a Christian, there are, strictly speaking, no chances. A secret master of ceremonies has been at work…Christ…can truly say to every group of Christian friends, ‘Ye have not chosen one another but I have chosen you for one another.’” — C.S. Lewis

“It (friendship) is the instrument by which God reveals to each of us the beauties of others.” — C.S. Lewis

3. Being Remembered (v. 16-18)

After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea. 17 Tell Archippus: “See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the Lord.” 18 I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.

“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin…” — Proverbs 18:24a

“I can’t imagine navigating storms, bearing burdens, and handling heartaches without good friends. Thank you for the gift of friendship—for the perspective, refreshment, and hope you give us through our friends.” — Scotty Smith

“…but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” — Proverbs 18:24b