Colossians 4:11
And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These only are my fellowworkers unto the kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me.
Colossians 4:11
In Colossians 4:11, Paul mentions Jesus, who is called Justus, alongside other Jewish believers “of the circumcision,” as fellow workers who have been a comfort to him in the kingdom of God. This small trio—Justus, and perhaps several unnamed brothers—highlights the diverse yet unified team that supported Paul’s mission. Within Colossians, Paul has urged the church to beware false teachings and to live worthy of their new life in Christ. In this closing roster of workers, Paul names those who stood with him, often emphasizing their ethnic or social backgrounds as a sign of the gospel breaking barriers. The phrase “of the circumcision” signals early Jewish believers who recognized Jesus as the Messiah and joined Paul in preaching to Gentiles. Justus is mentioned by name nowhere else in Paul’s letters, which underscores that ordinary, faithful believers often play crucial, behind-the-scenes roles. Their comfort to Paul also reveals that ministry can be lonely or dangerous; companionship and steady faith provide resilience. This verse, then, is less about the individual significance of Justus and more about communal partnership in the mission of God.
The verse reinforces key themes: gospel partnership across ethnic lines, and comfort and encouragement as divine provisions for ministry. The unity of Jew and Gentile believers in the kingdom is implicit in the very idea that “those of the circumcision” are fellow workers. It challenges readers to value quiet, faithful collaboration—people who may not be famous or scrutinized by history but who sustain mission through loyalty and prayerful support. Justus’s presence is a reminder that the gospel creates a living body with many members, each contributing differently. This also points to the sufficiency of grace in times of hardship; comfort comes through trusted companions who share the burden, mirroring how Christ sustains the church through the Spirit. Practically, it invites believers to cultivate dependable partnerships, celebrate overlooked workers, and recognize that encouragement is a spiritual gift with real kingdom impact.
Reflect on your own circle: who are the Justuses in your life—the quiet, faithful coworkers who encourage you in difficult seasons? Reach out to those who labor behind the scenes and offer explicit words of thanks. In your church or small group, note the value of companionship: prayer buddies, volunteers who handle essential tasks, and mentors who “comfort” you with steady presence. If you lead a team, create space for mutual support, not just tasks, so people feel connected to the larger mission. When facing setbacks, remember that comfort isn’t only about emotional solace; it’s grounded in shared faith and action—prayer, collaboration, and practical help. Practically, organize a fellowship coffee or note-writing drive to encourage workers like Justus. Embrace the truth that every believer has a role in the kingdom, and the strength of the church rests on many hands serving together.
Cross-References: Philippians 2:25; Colossians 1:7; Romans 16:21; 2 Timothy 4:11; Philemon 1:23-24