Who was Epaphras?

Faithful minister of Christ

The story of Epaphras

Epaphras - Apostle
Epaphras - Apostle
Died: 100Apostle

(Colossians 4:12). He was a resident of Colossae in Phrygia (in present-day Turkey), and he is believed to have been the founder of the church in that city. In his letters to the Colossians and Philemon, the apostle Paul refers to Epaphras as his fellow prisoner, suggesting that he may have suffered persecution for his faith. Little else is known about his life or the exact nature of his ministry, but he is remembered as a faithful servant of Christ and an example of prayerful intercession on behalf of others.

Name meaning

The name "Epaphras" has its origins in the Greek name "Επαφράς" (Epaphras). It is a name found in the New Testament of the Bible. Epaphras is most notably mentioned in the letters of the Apostle Paul, specifically in the books of Colossians and Philemon. He is described as a faithful servant of Christ who played a significant role in the early Christian Church. The meaning of the name "Epaphras" is often interpreted as "lovely" or "charming." However, the exact etymology and historical background of the name are not thoroughly detailed beyond its biblical context. In the Christian tradition, Epaphras is regarded as a devoted and zealous figure who worked to spread the teachings of Christianity.

Name origin

Greek

Role

Apostle

First mention

Colossians 1:7

Appearances in the Bible

3 mentions

Epaphras in the Bible

Explore all 3 chapters where Epaphras appears

Colossians

Chapter 1

Greeting and Thanksgiving

Paul greets the Colossian church and gives thanks for their faith in Christ and their love for all the saints. He prays ...

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Colossians

Chapter 4

Christian Conduct and Relationships

Paul instructs the Colossians on how to conduct themselves as Christians, including how to treat each other, how to comm...

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Philemon

Chapter 1

Paul's Plea for Philemon's Forgiveness

Paul writes to Philemon, a fellow Christian, on behalf of Onesimus, a slave who had run away and had become a believer i...

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