What was the relationship between Paul and Epaphras?

To understand the relationship between Paul and Epaphras, it’s helpful to begin with a brief overview of Paul’s life and mission. Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, was a zealous Pharisee who initially persecuted Christians. His dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus transformed him into one of Christianity’s greatest apostles. Paul’s missionary journeys took him across the Roman Empire, where he preached the Gospel, established churches, and wrote letters (epistles) that would become foundational to Christian doctrine.

Paul was known for working closely with a network of co-laborers and disciples. He rarely acted alone, instead relying on trusted partners to help plant and nurture churches. This collaborative approach shaped the spread of Christianity and created a legacy of mentorship and teamwork within the early Church.

Epaphras: The Faithful Servant

Epaphras is a figure whose story emerges primarily in Paul’s letters, particularly those addressed to the Colossians and Philemon. Though not as widely recognized as Paul, Peter, or James, Epaphras played a critical role in the establishment and spiritual growth of the churches in Colossae, Laodicea, and Hierapolis—three cities in the region of Phrygia in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey).

According to most biblical scholars, Epaphras was likely a native of Colossae. He is described as a “servant of Christ Jesus” and a “fellow prisoner” with Paul, suggesting a deep commitment to his faith and to the mission of spreading the Gospel.

Epaphras: Paul’s “Beloved Fellow Servant”

The warmest and most direct expressions of the relationship between Paul and Epaphras are found in the opening of Paul’s letter to the Colossians. In Colossians 1:7-8, Paul writes:

“You learned [the grace of God] from Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.”

This passage is rich with meaning. Paul refers to Epaphras as “our beloved fellow servant,” using language that conveys deep affection, respect, and a sense of shared purpose. The term “fellow servant” (Greek: syndoulos) is particularly significant, as it denotes equality in service and partnership in the work of the Lord.

Paul also acknowledges that the Colossians learned about the grace of God from Epaphras. This implies that Epaphras was the primary evangelist or founding teacher of the church at Colossae. While Paul had not personally visited Colossae at the time of writing, his connection with the community was established through Epaphras’s ministry.

Ministry Collaboration and Shared Mission

The relationship between Paul and Epaphras was one of collaboration and mutual support. Epaphras appears to have been a trusted delegate of Paul, carrying the message of the Gospel to regions Paul himself could not reach. This model of partnership was essential to the rapid expansion of the early Church.

It is widely believed that Epaphras became a Christian during Paul’s lengthy stay in Ephesus (Acts 19:10), where “all the residents of Asia heard the word of the Lord.” Epaphras likely took the Gospel back to his hometown of Colossae and began evangelizing in the surrounding cities of Laodicea and Hierapolis. Paul’s trust in Epaphras is evident from the way he refers to him and the responsibilities he entrusts to him.

In Colossians 4:12-13, Paul further elaborates on Epaphras’s character and work:

“Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis.”

Here, Paul reveals the depth of Epaphras’s pastoral concern for his fellow believers. He is described as someone who “struggles” in prayer—a phrase that conveys both fervency and perseverance. Epaphras’s commitment to intercessory prayer and his hard work on behalf of multiple congregations highlight his role as both evangelist and shepherd.

Epaphras’s Role as Paul’s Messenger and Advocate

Epaphras’s relationship with Paul extended beyond local ministry. He played a vital role as a messenger and advocate, traveling to visit Paul while Paul was imprisoned (likely in Rome). It is probable that Epaphras brought news of the Colossian church’s faith, as well as concerns about false teachings threatening the community. Epaphras’s journey to see Paul was no small feat, involving significant travel and personal risk.

Paul’s reliance on Epaphras as an informant and representative underscores the level of trust and respect between them. Epaphras did not merely report problems; he also sought Paul’s guidance and support, demonstrating humility and a desire for collaborative leadership.

Fellow Prisoners: Sharing in Suffering

The connection between Paul and Epaphras is further deepened by their shared experience of suffering for the sake of the Gospel. In the brief letter to Philemon, Paul refers to Epaphras as “my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus” (Philemon 1:23). While the exact circumstances are unclear, this phrase suggests that Epaphras was imprisoned alongside Paul, at least for a time.

This shared experience of hardship would have forged a strong bond between them, rooted in sacrifice and mutual encouragement. The willingness of both men to endure imprisonment and persecution reflects the depth of their commitment to Christ and to each other.

Theological Alignment and Unity of Purpose

Paul and Epaphras were united not only by friendship and shared labor, but also by a common theological vision. Both were committed to the centrality of Christ, the sufficiency of his work, and the importance of mature, Spirit-led faith among believers. Paul’s letter to the Colossians, which addresses issues of false teaching and spiritual maturity, reflects concerns that Epaphras himself would have shared.

Epaphras’s prayers for the Colossians—to stand mature and fully assured in God’s will—echo Paul’s own exhortations. This unity of purpose enabled them to work together effectively and to strengthen the churches under their care.

Lessons from the Relationship Between Paul and Epaphras

The partnership between Paul and Epaphras holds valuable lessons for contemporary readers. Their relationship:

1. Emphasizes the importance of teamwork in ministry: Paul did not attempt to build the Church alone. He relied on trusted colleagues like Epaphras to share the workload, offer local insights, and provide spiritual care.
2. Demonstrates the power of encouragement and affirmation: Paul’s public praise for Epaphras fostered trust and unity within the early Christian communities.
3. Highlights the role of prayer and perseverance: Epaphras’s commitment to intercessory prayer and hard work offers a model of pastoral care that is both spiritual and practical.
4. Reveals the cost of discipleship: Both Paul and Epaphras were willing to suffer for the sake of the Gospel, modeling sacrificial devotion to Christ.

Conclusion: A Model of Gospel Partnership

For Christians today, the story of Paul and Epaphras is a reminder that ministry is a communal endeavor. The growth of the early Church was not the result of solitary effort, but of men and women who worked together, supported one another, and sought to honor Christ above all.