Colossians 1:8

Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit.

Colossians 1:8 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to Paul’s opening thanksgiving in his letter to the Colossians. In the preceding verses, he has heard of their faith in Christ Jesus and their love for all the saints (Colossians 1:4). Here he identifies the messenger who brought this news: Epaphras, “our dear fellowservant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf” (Colossians 1:7). The “who” in verse 8 refers to Epaphras, who “declared unto us your love in the Spirit.“

Meaning

The phrase “love in the Spirit” highlights both the nature and the source of the Colossians’ love. It is not merely human affection or sentimentality, but love grounded in the Holy Spirit’s work within them. The Spirit enables believers to love one another genuinely and selflessly. The Greek word translated “declared” means to make known or to report clearly, indicating that this love was evident and observable.

Epaphras, likely the founder or evangelist of the Colossian church, brought news of this Spirit-produced love to Paul and his fellow workers. This confirms the reality of their faith and serves as evidence of the gospel’s transforming power. The love mentioned is directed toward God, Christ, and all the saints, and also toward Paul himself.

Biblical connections

Love is a central theme in Paul’s writings, emphasized as the highest expression of Christian virtue (1 Corinthians 13:1-3; Galatians 5:14). The Colossians’ love was not merely a private matter but something that was declared to others, manifested in their actions and interactions both within and outside the church.

• Love in the Spirit: The Holy Spirit enables believers to love one another genuinely and selflessly, as seen in Romans 5:5 and Galatians 5:22.

• Demonstrating Love: The Colossians’ love went beyond words and was evident in their actions, serving as a testimony to others.

• Testimony and Encouragement: The fact that their love was declared to Paul implies it had become known beyond their local church, encouraging him and confirming the transformative power of the Gospel.

Application

This verse reminds us that genuine Christian love, empowered by the Spirit, is observable and commendable. It should be reported and celebrated, serving as an example for other believers. Faithful ministers like Epaphras act as conduits of encouragement, carrying news of believers’ spiritual growth to others. We are called to live out our faith by displaying selfless love and kindness, ultimately reflecting the love of Christ to the world.

Reflection

Consider how your love in the Spirit is evident to others. Does your love for fellow believers and those outside the church demonstrate the Spirit’s work in your life? May our love be such that it can be declared to others as a testimony of God’s grace.