Archippus

'Take heed to the ministry' — the charge that outlives the man. This

Scripture-first, explicitly Trinitarian guide to Colossians 4:17 and

Philemon 1:2 traces Paul's fellowsoldier at Colossae — named only twice

in Scripture — and draws out the charge given to every believer: take

heed to the ministry you have received in the Lord, and fulfil it.

Twelve chapters cover the man named twice, the fellowsoldier and the

warfare of ministry, taking heed, ministry as received not earned, what

"in the Lord" means, bringing the charge to full measure, the house

church at Colossae, the fellow workers around Archippus, the thieves

that steal a charge, holding fast the Head, strength for the long road

of patience with joyfulness, and the final audit before the judgment

seat of Christ. Every chapter ends with a practice for the week and a

prayer addressed to the Father through Jesus Christ — Lord and Savior,

Son of God and Son of Man — by the Holy Spirit.