Colossians 4:16
“When this letter has been read among you, cause it to be read also in the assembly of the Laodiceans; and that you also read the letter from Laodicea.”
What does Colossians 4:16 mean?
Paul is asking the church at Colossae to pass his letter along to the nearby church at Laodicea, and to read a letter that the Laodiceans have received as well. This shows how early churches stayed connected and encouraged each other by sharing written words from trusted leaders and teachers. There's a beautiful humility here too: Paul isn't hoarding his words for one community but wants them spread where they might help others. For those of us today, it's a gentle reminder that spiritual encouragement and truth aren't meant to be kept to ourselves, and that we're part of a larger family of faith beyond our own immediate circle.