Colossians 4

show
The word “show” translates παρέχω (parechō), which can have the idea of furnishing or supplying something, or of showing someone something in the sense of causing them to experience it. This is similar to how one might be said in English to, for example, “show someone kindness.” The Greek word is translated consistently as “show” in similar contexts (cf. Acts 28:2; Titus 2:7). Here, masters are to show to their slaves what is right and fair because this reflects how God as Master treats those who serve Him.

being watchful
The phrase “being watchful” is from γρηγορέω (grēgoreō). In eschatological passages, the word is translated as “awake” (e. g., Matt 24:42, 43; Luke 12:37; 1 Thess 5:6). In prayer passages it is translated as “watchful” (e. g., Acts 20:31; 1 Cor 16:13; 1 Pet 5:8).

redeeming the time
The translation “redeeming the time” is more literal to the Greek text than something like “making the most of the opportunity.” It represents the Greek phrase τὸν καιρόν ἐξαγοραζόμενοι (ton kairon exarorazomenoi), where the verb ἐξαγοράζω (exagorazō) communicates the idea of “redeeming,” “ransoming,” or “buying out.” Thus, “redeeming” gives an accurate rendering, as Paul paints a vivid word picture of buying up time in order to use or invest it wisely.

answer
The translation here as “answer” rather than “reply to” simply provides greater consistency for the word ἀποκρίνομαι (apokrinomai) throughout the New Testament. Such translational consistency helps the reader to recognize the same word everywhere it appears.

servant
“Servant” is from διάκονος (diakonos). When referring to the office, the word is translated as “deacons” (e.g., 1 Tim 3:8, 12). When referring to ministry it is translated as “minister” (e.g., 2 Cor 3:6; 6:4). In every other context, as here, the word is translated as “servant” (e.g., Rom 13:4; Eph 6:21).

fellow slave
“Fellow slave” translates σύνδουλος (syndoulos), in which the familiar term δοῦλος (doulos; “slave”) appears. Here, Paul calls Tychicus both a “faithful servant” and a “fellow slave” (see previous note; also cf. 1:7 where Epaphras receives the same designations). Distinctly translating διάκονος (diakonos; “servant”) and δοῦλος (doulos; “slave”) gives each their most accurate sense in English and helps the reader to distinguish the terms and note their specific contributions in Paul’s thought. The designation as a “slave” emphasizes Tychicus’ position or status in relation to God, while “servant” emphasizes his work, ministry, or service for God and the saints.

make known to you all my affairs
The translation “make known to you all my affairs” is a more literal rendering of τὰ κατʼ ἐμὲ πάντα γνωρίσει ὑμῖν (ta kat’ eme panta gnōrisei) than something like some translations’ “tell you all the news” or “bring you information.” This literal wording provides a clearer window to the original Greek text, abstaining from a more modern gloss where a literal translation accurately carries the intended sense. This gives the reader confidence that the English translation is as close to the Greek text as possible.

one of you
“One of you” is a straightforward translation of ἐξ ὑμῶν (ex hymōn; lit. “from/of you”). With this, Paul relates Onesimus closely with the brothers (cf. Phlm 16), showing that he is to be beloved as a true brother in Christ and member of the Colossian church.

slave
In 1:7, Epaphras was called a “fellow slave” (σύνδουλος; syndoulos) and here he is called a “slave” (δοῦλος; doulos). The consistent translation of δοῦλος (doulos) helps the reader to see Paul’s repeated emphasis of Epaphras’ humble position and mindset and his faithful service to the Lord.

striving
“Striving” translates the verb ἀγωνίζομαι (agōnizomai), which communicates the idea of a fight or struggle. Thus, “striving” conveys the sense better than something like “laboring” to describe the diligent, determined, and passionate pattern of prayer he exercises on their behalf, showing his great love for them and desire for their sanctification.

brothers
Though some translations retain the older English plural, “brethren,” the translation “brothers” here remains perfectly accurate to the Greek text (ἀδελφοὺς; adelphous) and is more natural to modern readers. This language describes the close familial union which all believers have with one another as children of God.

chains
“Chains” literally translates δεσμῶν (desmōn), which is better than the more general term “imprisonment” because it gives a more vivid picture of Paul’s restraint and suffering for the cause of the gospel. Paul wants the Colossians to remember his chains because they signify both his authenticity as an apostle suffering for Christ as well as his faithful commitment to and valuable appraisal of the message of Christ. This will encourage them to devote themselves all the more to the gospel and continue to pray for Paul as well.