\\INTRODUCTION TO COLOSSIANS 4\\

This chapter begins with an exhortation to masters to behave towards
their servants in a just and equitable manner, from the consideration
of their having a master in heaven, which should have concluded the
preceding one; and in it the apostle gives some general exhortations,
and some particular instructions about reading this, and another
epistle, and stirring up their minister to his duty; and great part of
it is taken up in expressing his love to the Colossians, and in the
salutations of others, and of himself. The general exhortations are to
prayer, with watchfulness and thankfulness, not only for themselves,
but especially for the ministers of the Gospel, \\#Col 4:2-4\\ and next
to a wise behaviour towards them that were of the world, \\#Col 4:5\\
and also to a prudent conversation, particularly in language, with
everyone, \\#Col 4:6\\. And then the apostle proceeds to declare his
great affection for them, and care of them, which he showed by sending
two proper persons to them from him, partly to make known his affairs
to them, and partly to know the state and condition they were in, and
comfort them, \\#Col 4:7-9\\ and next follow the salutations of various
persons to them, who are mentioned by name, and whose characters are
given, \\#Col 4:10-15\\. And then he orders them to read this epistle
in the church of Laodicea, and also that which came from that place,
\\#Col 4:16\\ and to admonish Archippus to take heed to, and fulfil his
ministry, since it was what he had received in the Lord, \\#Col 4:17\\.
And then closes the epistle with his own salutation and benediction,
entreating a remembrance of him and his bonds, \\#Col 4:18\\.