Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the concept of colleagues can be understood through the relationships and partnerships that are formed for the purpose of advancing God's work. The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals working together in ministry, supporting one another, and sharing in the labor of the Gospel.Old Testament Examples While the term "colleagues" is not explicitly used in the Old Testament, the idea of working together is evident. Moses and Aaron serve as a prime example of colleagues in ministry. God appointed Aaron to assist Moses in leading the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 4:14-16). Their partnership was crucial in confronting Pharaoh and guiding the people through the wilderness. Another example is found in the relationship between David and Jonathan. Although not colleagues in the traditional sense of working on a shared task, their friendship and mutual support exemplify the strength found in godly partnerships (1 Samuel 18:1-4). New Testament Examples The New Testament provides clearer examples of colleagues in ministry, particularly in the early church. Jesus Himself sent out the disciples in pairs, emphasizing the importance of working together (Mark 6:7). This model of partnership continued in the early church. Paul's letters frequently mention his colleagues in ministry. In Romans 16, Paul greets numerous individuals who have worked alongside him, such as Priscilla and Aquila, whom he describes as "fellow workers in Christ Jesus" (Romans 16:3). This highlights the collaborative nature of early Christian ministry. In Philippians 4:3, Paul refers to his "true companion" and other "fellow workers" who have labored with him in the Gospel. This demonstrates the communal effort required in spreading the message of Christ. Theological Implications The concept of colleagues in the Bible underscores the importance of community and cooperation in fulfilling God's purposes. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 states, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. For if one falls, the other will lift up his companion." This passage highlights the practical benefits of working together, as well as the spiritual support that colleagues can provide. The New Testament further emphasizes the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ, as seen in 1 Corinthians 12. Each member has a unique role, and together they form a cohesive unit that can effectively carry out God's work. Practical Application For believers today, the biblical model of colleagues encourages collaboration in ministry and service. Whether in church leadership, mission work, or everyday acts of service, Christians are called to support one another and work together for the advancement of the Kingdom. This involves recognizing and valuing the diverse gifts and contributions of each individual, fostering an environment of mutual respect and encouragement. In summary, the Bible presents a rich tapestry of relationships that illustrate the importance of colleagues in the work of God. From the Old Testament partnerships to the New Testament collaborations, the theme of working together for a common purpose is a vital aspect of biblical teaching. Strong's Hebrew 3674. kenath -- associate, colleague... 3673, 3674. kenath. 3675 . associate, colleague. Transliteration: kenath Phonetic Spelling: (ken-awth') Short Definition: colleagues. ... /hebrew/3674.htm - 6k 3675. kenath -- an associate Library To his Honored and Beloved Colleagues Epistle Lii. To Fortunatus and his Other Colleagues, Concerning ... Next his Colleagues Proceed to Deliver their Several Opinions. ... Now Jonathan and his Colleagues, Having Failed of Accomplishing ... Geminius of Furni Said: "Certain of Our Colleagues May Prefer ... When I had Said This, Jonathan and his Colleagues Held their Peace ... Of the Persecution Raised by his Colleagues. Epistle Xli. To Cornelius, About Cyprian's Approval of his ... Epistle Xliv. To Cornelius, Concerning Polycarp the Adrumetine. Let us Therefore, Seeing that we Adhere to the Example of Cyprian. ... Thesaurus Colleagues (8 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Colleagues (8 Occurrences). Ezra 4:7 In the days of Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the ... /c/colleagues.htm - 8k Collateral (11 Occurrences) Collect (24 Occurrences) Nicodemus (5 Occurrences) Judaeus Musician (112 Occurrences) Philo Clerk (1 Occurrence) Town (861 Occurrences) Resources Who was Luke in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is The Living Bible (TLB)? | GotQuestions.org Is there any evidence for the Bible's view of a young earth? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Colleagues (8 Occurrences)Ezra 4:7 Ezra 4:9 Ezra 4:17 Ezra 4:23 Ezra 5:3 Ezra 5:6 Ezra 6:6 Ezra 6:13 Subtopics Related Terms |