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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comVincent Word Studies - Colossians 1:29 - 1:29
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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
I labor (κοπιῶ)
Unto weariness. See on Luk 5:5. The connection with the following ἀγωνιζόμενος contending in the arena, seems to show that I labor has the special sense of labor in preparing for the contest. The same combination occurs 1Ti 4:10, where the correct reading is ἀγωνιζόμεθα we strive for ὀνειδιζόμεθα we suffer reproach; and there is a similar combination, Phi 2:16, run and labor. So Ignatius, Epistle to Polycarp, 6: “Labor ye one with another (συγκοπιᾶτε); strive together (συναθλεῖτε, see Phi 1:27); run together, suffer together, go to rest together, arise together” (the last two probably with reference to the uniform hours prescribed for athletes under training). So Clement of Rome: “Who have labored (κοπιάσαντες) much, and contended (ἀγωνισάμενοι) honorably” (ii. 7). See on 1Co 9:24-27.
Striving (ἀγωνιζόμενος)
From ἀγών originally an assembly, a place of assembly, especially for viewing the games. Hence the contest itself, the word being united with different adjectives indicating the character of the contest, as ἱππικός of horses; γυμνικός gymnastic; μουσικός of music; χάλκεος, where the prize is a brazen shield, etc. Generally, any struggle or trial. Hence the verb means to enter a contest, to contend, to struggle. The metaphor is a favorite one with Paul, and, with the exception of three instances (Luk 13:24; Joh 18:36; Heb 12:1), the words ἀγών contest and ἀγωνίζομαι to contend are found only in his writings. See 1Ti 6:12; 2Ti 4:7; 1Co 9:25 (note); 1Th 2:2.
Working (ἐνέργειαν)
From ἐνεργής ἐν in, ἔργον work; lit. being in or at work. See on 1Co 16:9. Ἐνέργεια is the state of being at work; energy, efficiency. Used only of superhuman energy, good or evil.
Which worketh (τὴν ἐνεργουμένην)
Kindred with the preceding. See on Jam 5:16.