The Epaphras Project

Epaphras is a biblical character who is only mentioned in four verses of the New Testament. He is not exactly the most famous or glamourous person but for the little Christian church in the city of Colossae, he was one of the most important people.

Epaphras was an evangelist. He was one of the first to share the gospel with the people of Colossae (Colossians 1:6–8). But just as importantly, Epaphras also served the Christians of his city in a different way; a behind-the-scenes way that quietly and powerfully shaped the church. St Paul tells us that Epaphras was ‘always wrestling in prayer’ for Christians so that they might ‘stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured’ (Colossians 4:12). Epaphras is working hard in prayer! We might call him an intercessor or a prayer warrior.

In every church, God graciously puts at least one person like Epaphras. God provides people whose gifting and calling is simply to pray, intercede and be persistent with him for the growth and maturity of the congregation. Spirit-empowered, persistent prayer is the foundation of each ministry and mission opportunity of every congregation.

That’s why LCANZ Local Mission is launching the Epaphras Project. The project aims to identify, equip, affirm and network the intercessors – the Epaphras-type people – in every congregation across the church.

Who are the Epaphrases in your congregation? They just may be among the quietest, least famous, but most vital people in your church! Will you join the Epaphras Project?