The church of Jesus Christ is filled with people whose names rarely appear in headlines, conference brochures, or history books. These folks labor faithfully, pray fervently, shepherd diligently, and often do so with little public recognition. Among these “unsung heroes” of the New Testament is a man named Epaphras.
Introducing Epaphras
The apostle Paul introduces Epaphras to the Colossians believers with characteristic affection. He writes, “You learned [the truth of God’s grace in Christ] from Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf” (Col. 1:7). Though Paul wrote the inspired letter to the Colossians, it appears that Epaphras was the one who first brought the gospel to them and likely played a significant role in establishing the church. Yet throughout the letter, Epaphras remains in the background. There are no lengthy descriptions of his accomplishments, no record of great sermons, and no account of miraculous exploits.
Instead, Paul simply highlights something eternally important: Epaphras’ faithfulness.
The Faithful Passion of Epaphras
In Colossians 4:12-13, Paul adds, “Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God.” The word translated “struggling” conveys the idea of striving, wrestling, or laboring intensely. Epaphras was not merely offering occasional prayers for the church in Colossae. He was earnestly engaged in spiritual labor on behalf of these beloved believers. He longed for the church to “stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God” (4:12). Notice, Epaphras’ concern was not for his reputation, comfort, or influence. His passion was the spiritual progress (i.e., maturity) of God’s people.
Paul goes on to add a word of personal testimony: “For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis” (4:13). Epaphras was a man whose labor was known and greatly appreciated by Paul. But more importantly, it was seen and known by God.
Focus on Faithfulness in Church Ministry
Many in the Bible Fellowship Church–including many pastors, elders, and ministry leaders–can likely identify with Epaphras. Week after week, they prepare lessons, pray for struggling families, attend meetings, make hospital visits, answer hard questions, navigate tense conflicts, and quietly carry burdens that few others seem to notice. Much of this work happens behind the scenes. Often there is little applause. Occasionally there is even a little criticism. Some days are sprinkled with discouragement.
But in those moments, Epaphras’s example reminds us that significance in Christ’s church is not measured by visibility or prominence but by faithfulness. Jesus repeatedly taught that the Father sees what is done in secret (Matt. 6:4, 6, 18). God notices the unseen prayer, the private act of service, the difficult conversation handled with grace, the faithful sermon prepared after a long week, and the countless decisions made for His glory. Nothing offered to Christ in faith is ever wasted or overlooked.
The Lord Sees
Perhaps you feel unnoticed in your ministry. Perhaps your labor seems unimportant. Perhaps you wonder whether your efforts are making any difference at all. If that’s true, remember Epaphras. His name appears only a few times in Scripture, yet the Holy Spirit preserved his example as a testament to humble faithfulness for generations of servants. What may have seemed hidden in his own day became a monument of steadfast service for the entire church.
The same Lord who saw Epaphras sees you.
Therefore, brothers and sisters, do not grow weary in doing good (Gal. 6:9). Keep praying. Keep shepherding. Keep guarding sound doctrine. Keep loving God’s people. Keep laboring for their maturity in Christ. Why? Because even if you feel unseen by others, the Chief Shepherd is watching, and His approval is worth infinitely more than the recognition of men (Col. 3:23-24).
One day every faithful servant will hear the words that matter most: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matt. 25:21). It’s not how famous you are; it’s faithfulness that grabs attention in heaven.
Until that day, take heart. The kingdom of God advances not only through well-known personalities but also through countless unsung heroes–men and women like Epaphras, faithful, prayerful, hardworking servants whose names may be forgotten on earth but are forever known in heaven.
Unsung Heroes: a Poem
“Unsung Heroes”
by Dan Williams
They do not seek the stage or light,
Yet serve with joy from morn till night.
They fold the pages, sweep the floor,
Unlock the church and lock the door.
They mow the grass, they softly pray,
They teach young hearts the narrow way.
They give in faith, though few may see,
And trust the Lord for days to be.
They edit lines, prepare each seat,
With willing hands and faithful feet.
No trumpet sounds their quiet worth,
Yet heaven knows their sacred work.
For every part, both great and small,
Is Spirit-gifted, needed all.
Though names may fade from earthly fame,
The Lord of glory knows each name.
Dan Williams is the pastor of Trinity BFC in Blandon and serves as the Interim Director of the Board of Church Health of the Bible Fellowship Church. Find out more about Church Health or request a consult on their webpage.