Colossians 4:3-4 3praying at the same time also for us, in order that God may open to us a door for the word, to speak the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am also imprisoned, 4in order that I may reveal it as it is necessary for me to speak.
Paul urges the Colossians to pray for him and those with him as they go to God in prayer. Paul realized the necessity of prayer because he believed in God’s providential grace. Even though he was imprisoned, he was looking for opportunities to preach the gospel. He indicates that the word he spoke was the mystery of Christ. He has used the word “mystery” three times in the letter so far, in 1:26, 27; 2:2. This word would appeal to both Jews and Gentiles who used this word in various ways in their religions. Paul takes this specialized word and fills it with meaning.
The revelation of God’s hidden message is what the world needs. God gave Paul insight into this message so that Paul could make it clear to people. This insight is not so special that only Paul got it from God but it is something all people can learn and grow with as they come to God in faith and ask for deeper understanding and knowledge. This message is not any secret message only for a few initiates, such as with Jewish mysticism, Gnosticism, or the mystery religions but is to be publicly and openly proclaimed to all people. The gospel only remains a secret to those who refuse to accept it. The mystery of Christ does not separate people but brings them together. But the world rejects this mystery. That Paul was in chains for proclaiming this message proves that not everyone will accept it. Paul felt compelled to preach the gospel (dei me lalēsai; 1 Corinthians 9:16) so that both Jews and Gentiles could come to believe in Jesus.
Praying in intercession for others does several things. For one, prayer provides powerful and direct access to God. Scripture and experience show that God responds to the prayers of his people. Second, prayer like this connects believers together in a common mission. Even though the Colossians were far away from Paul, they could participate in his ministry of proclamation by praying for him. Third, prayer is an important part of the mission of proclaiming the gospel. Not everyone will go to the “uttermost parts of the world.” Some will stay in their home communities. Those who stay in their homes can still have a vital part of taken the gospel to the nations by praying for missionaries and evangelists who are on the front lines far away.
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