Colossians 4:10

Aristarchus my fellow prisoner saluteth you, and Marcus sisters sonne to Barnabas, (touching whome yee receiued commandements; if he come vnto you, receiue him:) Colossians 4:10 (KJV)

Paul greets two individuals who were known to the Colossian believers. Aristarchus is described as Paul’s “fellow prisoner.” Other passages (Acts 19:29; 20:4; 27:2) identify Aristarchus as a trusted co‑worker and traveling companion of Paul, suggesting that they shared imprisonment at some point because of their missionary work. His presence in the greeting underscores the close bonds formed in ministry and the reality of suffering together for the gospel.

Marcus is identified as the “sister’s son to Barnabas,” a description that points to John Mark, the author of the Gospel of Mark. Barnabas, a leading figure in the early church, was Mark’s maternal uncle. The relationship between Paul and Mark was strained after Mark left Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey (Acts 13:13). The disagreement caused a temporary separation, but the present verse shows a restored fellowship. Paul’s parenthetical instruction—“touching whom ye received commandments: if he come unto you, receive him”—indicates that the Colossians had already been told to welcome Mark, and Paul now re‑affirms that they should extend hospitality when he arrives.

The passage yields several practical lessons for the church today. First, it highlights forgiveness and reconciliation. Just as Paul and Mark were able to mend their broken relationship, believers are called to seek forgiveness, restore broken ties, and extend grace within the body of Christ. Second, the instruction to receive Mark stresses the importance of hospitality and acceptance. Christians should welcome fellow believers, regardless of past disagreements, with open arms and a loving spirit. Third, the mention of Aristarchus and Mark reminds us of the value of god‑ordained relationships. God often uses people to encourage, support, and shape our faith journeys, so we should cherish and nurture these connections. Finally, the phrase “touching whom ye received commandments” teaches obedience to the guidance of godly leaders. By following such instructions, the community grows in unity and spiritual maturity.