Redeeming the Time

Chapter 4 begins with the end of Paul's household instructions: Masters, give to your servants that which is just and equal, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. Then Paul writes: Continue steadfastly in prayer, watching in it with thanksgiving. He asks the believers to pray that God would open a door for the word, so that he can speak the mystery of Christ clearly, even though he is in bonds for it.

Paul gives wise advice about living among people who do not yet believe. They are to walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of time. He writes, Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one. Gracious words, like good seasoning, make the message pleasant and wise.

The letter closes with news and greetings. Tychicus, the beloved brother, faithful servant, and fellow bondservant in the Lord, will tell them everything. Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you, comes with him. Aristarchus, Paul's fellow prisoner, Mark the cousin of Barnabas, and Jesus called Justus send greetings. Epaphras is always striving for them in his prayers, that they may stand complete in God's will. Luke the beloved physician and Demas greet them too. Paul asks that the letter be read in Laodicea and ends in his own hand: Remember my chains. Grace be with you. Amen.