Devine Scripture

Colossians 4:9

What does Colossians 4:9 mean?

A plain-English look at Colossians 4:9 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Colossians 4:9 means

Onesimus, described as a faithful and beloved brother and “one of you,” accompanies Tychicus. His inclusion affirms his transformed status within the Christian family. Returning to his home city, he comes not as a problem but as a partner. Together they will report “all things that are done here,” tying Colossae to Paul’s ministry. This shows how the gospel reconciles people and restores usefulness. The church is to receive him as they would any dear brother. Paul’s wording underscores that Christian identity in the Lord supersedes old divisions and sets a new pattern for relationships within the household of faith.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

together with Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things that are done here.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

With Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things which are done here.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

together with Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall make known unto you all things that are done here.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And with him I have sent Onesimus, the true and well-loved brother, who is one of you. They will give you word of everything which is taking place here.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

with Onesimus the faithful and beloved brother, who is of you; all things to you shall they make known that <FI>are<Fi> here.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

With Onesimus, a most beloved and faithful brother, who is one of you. All things that are done here, they shall make known to you.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

with Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is [one] of you. They shall make known to you everything here.

Context

Having named Tychicus as the chief messenger, Paul adds Onesimus, linking Colossae personally to the team carrying the letter. This prepares the readers for the broader circle of greetings (verses 10–14), showing that their church is part of a wider fellowship. The mention that Onesimus is “one of you” primes the community to welcome him warmly and to see Paul’s instructions as directly connected to their own story.

v.8whom I have sent unto you for this very purpose, that ye may know our state, and that he may comfort your hearts;

v.9This passage

v.10Aristarchus my fellow-prisoner saluteth you, and Mark, the cousin of Barnabas (touching whom ye received commandments; if he come unto you, receive him),

Cross references

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

  • Colossians 4:7

    All my affairs shall Tychicus make known unto you, the beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow-servant in the Lord:

  • Philemon 1:10

    I beseech thee for my child, whom I have begotten in my bonds, Onesimus,

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