Colossians 4:16 (KJV)

What does Colossians 4:16 mean?

Colossians 4:16 instructs the believers in Colossae to share Paul’s letter with the church in Laodicea and to read the letter that the Laodiceans have as well. Paul wants both groups to benefit from each other’s teaching and encouragement.

Paul is writing to the church in Colossae, giving practical instructions as he closes his letter. He tells them to make sure his message is read not just in their own gathering but also in the nearby city of Laodicea, and to read the letter sent to the Laodiceans. This shows how early Christian communities shared teachings and stayed connected.

The Greek behind Colossians 4:16

• ἐπιστολή (epistolē, "epistle"): This word means "letter" or "written message." Paul’s use of it highlights that these writings were meant to be circulated and read aloud in church gatherings, not kept private.
• ἀναγινώσκω (anaginōskō, "read"): The Greek word here means more than silent reading; it refers to reading aloud, especially in a public or communal setting. This shows the importance of everyone hearing the message together.
• ἐκκλησία (ekklēsia, "church"): This word means "assembly" or "gathering," not just a building. Paul is addressing the whole community of believers, emphasizing the collective nature of early Christian worship and learning.

Why Colossians 4:16 matters

• Colossians 4:16 shows that Paul’s letters were intended to be shared among different churches, suggesting their broad relevance and authority even in the earliest days.
• The verse highlights the importance of Christian communities learning from each other, not just relying on their own local leaders or teachings.
• This instruction connects to the wider passage by showing Paul’s concern for unity and mutual encouragement among believers in different places.