Partnering With a Purpose
12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. He is always wrestling for you in his prayers, so that you can stand mature and fully assured in everything God wills. 13 For I testify about him that he works hard for you, for those in Laodicea, and for those in Hierapolis.
Colossians 4:12-13
The apostle Paul highlights Epaphras as an example of Christian partnership. Through Paul, Epaphras sends greetings to the Colossians, and Paul then describes the nature of Epaphras’ partnership with them. EpaphrasDisplay a strong passion and concern for the Colossians and aims to emphasize the importance of their partnership.
Committing to Pray in Partnership. Epaphras dedicated himself to praying for the people in Colossae. This act demonstrates a partnership rooted in genuine care and compassion. Epaphras intercedes on their behalf, asking God to help them stay faithful in their partnership to advance God's kingdom. We should share this same desire, praying for ongoing partnership with others to fulfill God's will.
Committing to Pray for the Church. Committing to pray for the church involves more than just praying for its members; it includes praying for the church as a whole. Epaphras understood that unity among the church members enhances their partnership and helps them stay focused on God's mission. When we dedicate ourselves to praying for the church, we also pray for the leaders guiding the congregation toward a common purpose. Additionally, our prayers seek to strengthen the partnership among all members in the Lord.
Committing to Pray for Teamwork. Committing to pray for teamwork means asking for the body to function as one unified group working toward a common goal. Epaphras's prayer for partnership highlights the importance of ongoing prayer for unity, as the enemy seeks to disrupt team cohesion from various angles. Such a prayer encompasses surrender, unity, and focus. When we pray for spiritual teamwork, we seek to be connected in the Lord, surrendering any beneficial activities or selfish pursuits unrelated to Him, and ensuring our efforts center solely on God’s guidance and mission.
Committing to Prayer for the Mission. Committing to pray for the mission involves following Epaphras's example, who prayed for the people to stay focused on the Lord's mission and to expand His kingdom as led by Him. Partnerships and teamwork can be jeopardized by pursuits that are motivated by personal comfort, tradition, pride, selfishness, or an unwillingness to surrender. When we pray for the mission, we ask that our partnerships remain aligned with God's purpose, recognizing that He opens and closes doors. Our prayers should encompass the partnerships, the mission field, and the mission itself, ensuring that everything is centered on God's work.
QUESTIONS
How does the concept of partnership in the Gospel reflect the nature of the Body of Christ?
What steps can you take to help cultivate supportive partnerships and relationships within our church community?
