B. Archippus (4:17) Five truths about his life can be learned from this verse. First, his name means “horse ruler” (Archippōi). Paul called Archippus a “fellowsoldier” (Philem. 2). He may have been the natural son of Philemon and Apphia (Philem. 1–2). Quite possibly, he might have been the pastor of the Colossian church in the absence of Epaphras. This church met in the house of Philemon (Philem. 2). Second, Archippus was responsible to the church. Paul gave instructions to the church to speak to
Page 173