Colossians 4:14 (KJV)

What does Colossians 4:14 mean?

Colossians 4:14 is a greeting from Paul, mentioning two companions—Luke, described as the beloved physician, and Demas—who both send their greetings to the believers in Colossae. The verse highlights Luke’s profession and his close relationship with Paul, while also including Demas as a fellow worker at this time.

Paul is writing this letter from prison to the Christian community in Colossae. By naming Luke as the “beloved physician,” Paul shows personal affection and respect for Luke’s role, both as a doctor and a friend. Including Demas in the greeting gives a sense of the team around Paul and their shared concern for the Colossian church.

The Greek behind Colossians 4:14

• ἀγαπητός (agapētos, "beloved"): This word means dearly loved or cherished. Paul’s use of it for Luke shows a deep personal bond, not just a formal partnership.
• ἰατρός (iatros, "physician"): This is the common Greek word for a doctor. Mentioning Luke’s profession sets him apart and may explain his practical value to Paul, especially during imprisonment.
• ἀσπάζομαι (aspazomai, "greet"): This verb means to salute or send greetings. It’s a warm, personal way to include others in the letter’s message, showing that Luke and Demas are thinking of the Colossians too.

Why Colossians 4:14 matters

• The verse shows that Paul’s ministry was a team effort, involving people with different backgrounds and skills, like Luke the doctor.
• Calling Luke “beloved” highlights the close, caring relationships among early Christian leaders, not just formal or distant cooperation.
• Including Demas here is significant, since later letters mention Demas leaving Paul; this greeting shows that at this point, Demas was still a trusted companion.