Devine Scripture

Colossians 4:15

What does Colossians 4:15 mean?

A plain-English look at Colossians 4:15 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Colossians 4:15 means

Paul instructs the Colossians to greet the believers in Laodicea, along with Nymphas and the church that meets in his house. This shows early Christian gatherings were often house-churches, marked by hospitality and personal leadership. Naming Nymphas honors faithful hosts whose homes became sanctuaries for worship, teaching, and fellowship. The apostle’s greetings extend beyond city limits, cultivating unity among nearby assemblies. Such inter-church warmth combats isolation and strengthens shared identity in Christ. These simple courtesies carry weight: they recognize the body’s breadth and commend those who serve quietly yet significantly by opening their homes to God’s people.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Salute the brethren that are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church that is in their house.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Salute the brethren that are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church that is in their house.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Give my love to the brothers in Laodicea and to Nymphas and the church in their house.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

salute ye those in Laodicea--brethren, and Nymphas, and the assembly in his house;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Salute the brethren who are at Laodicea: and Nymphas and the church that is in his house.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Salute the brethren in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the assembly which [is] in his house.

Context

Following personal greetings from Paul’s companions, Paul now addresses the Colossians’ regional relationships. By greeting Laodicea and Nymphas, he emphasizes the tight links among the churches of the Lycus Valley. The next verse will instruct the mutual reading of letters, further weaving the communities together by shared doctrine and encouragement. The flow underscores that local faith thrives within a wider fellowship.

v.14Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas salute you.

v.15This passage

v.16And when this epistle hath been read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye also read the epistle from Laodicea.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Romans 16:5

    and salute the church that is in their house. Salute Epænetus my beloved, who is the firstfruits of Asia unto Christ.

  • 1 Corinthians 16:9

    for a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.

  • Philemon 1:2

    and to Apphia our sister, and to Archippus our fellow-soldier, and to the church in thy house:

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