Devine Scripture

Colossians 4:16

What does Colossians 4:16 mean?

A plain-English look at Colossians 4:16 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Colossians 4:16 means

Paul orders that this epistle be read in Colossae and then in the church of the Laodiceans, and that the Colossians likewise read the letter from Laodicea. Public reading ensures that the whole church hears apostolic instruction. The exchange shows that letters circulated beyond one congregation, building common understanding and unity. It also safeguards doctrine by cross-pollinating authoritative teaching. Paul’s concern is that no church live in isolation or ignorance. Scripture is meant to be heard, shared, and obeyed in community. The instruction reflects confidence that God edifies His people through these writings, which carry ongoing authority for faith and practice.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And 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.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

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

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And 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.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And when this letter has been made public among you, let the same be done in the church of Laodicea; and see that you have the letter from Laodicea.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and when the epistle may be read with you, cause that also in the assembly of the Laodiceans it may be read, and the <FI>epistle<Fi> from Laodicea that ye also may read;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And when this epistle shall have been read with you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans: and that you read that which is of the Laodiceans.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And when the letter has been read among you, cause that it be read also in the assembly of Laodiceans, and that ye also read that from Laodicea.

Context

Having extended greetings, Paul gives practical steps to reinforce connection and truth among neighboring churches. The mutual reading of letters signals the importance of apostolic teaching and the early formation of a recognized body of instruction. After this corporate direction, Paul will offer a targeted exhortation to an individual leader, Archippus (verse 17), then close with his personal signature and blessing (verse 18), drawing the letter to a pastoral conclusion.

v.15Salute the brethren that are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church that is in their house.

v.16This passage

v.17And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.

Cross references

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

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:27

    I adjure you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the brethren.

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:14

    And if any man obeyeth not our word by this epistle, note that man, that ye have no company with him, to the end that he may be ashamed.

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