Commentary on Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians Thessalonians Timothy Titus and Philemon John Calvin (continued)
John Calvin fore, that there were few Jews at Rome who shewed themselves to be helpers to the gospel, nay more, that the whole nation was opposed to Christ. At the same time, by workers he means those only who were endowed with gifts that were necessary for promoting the gospel. But where was Peter at that time? Unquestionably, he has either been shamefully passed over here, and not without injustice, or else those speak falsely who maintain that he was then at Rome. Farther, he calls the gospel the kingdom of God, for it is the scepter by which God reigns over us, and by means of it we are singled out to life eternal. 650
But of this form of expression we shall treat more fully elsewhere.
12 Always striving. Here we have an example of a good pastor, whom distance of place cannot induce to forget the Church, so as to prevent him from taking the care of it with him beyond the sea. We must notice, also, the strength of entreaty that is expressed in the word striving. For although the Apostle had it in view here to express intensity of affection, he at the same time admonishes the Colossians not to look upon the prayers of their pastor as useless, but, on the contrary, to reckon that they would afford them no small assistance. Lastly, let us infer from Paul's words, that the perfection of Christians is, when they stand complete in the will of God, that they may not suspend their scheme of life upon anything else.
Colossians 4:14-18
Colossians 4:14-18
14. Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas, greet you. 14. Salutat vos Lucas medicus dilectus, et Demas. 15. Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house.
15. Salutate fratres qui sunt Laodiceae, et Nympham, et Ecclesiam quae est domi ipsius;
16. 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.
16. Et quum lecta fuerit apud vos epistola, facite ut etiam in Laodicensium Ecclesia legatur: et eam quae ex Laodicea est ut vos legatis.
17. And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.
17. Et dicite Archippo: Vide ministerium quod accepisti in Domino, ut illud impleas.
18. The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen.
18. Salutatio, mea manu Pauli. Memores estote vinculorum meorum. Gratia vobiscum. Amen.
Written from Rome to the Colossians by Tychicus and Onesimus. Missa e Roma per Tychicum et Onesimum.
650"Nous sommes receus a la vie eternelle;" — "We are received to life eternal."