Colossians 4:10 – Mark, the Cousin of Barnabas

10 Greeting you is Aristarchus, my fellow captive, and Mark, cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you obtained directions: if he should be coming to you, receive him)…

After Aristarchus, Paul mentions Mark, whom he identifies as “the cousin of Barnabas.” Why this mention of Barnabas? Was he someone known to the Colossians? Or is this reference intended to remind us of Mark’s earlier history, as described in Acts? That would certainly make Paul’s appeal to receive Mark understandable.

Luke recounts in Acts that, prior to the second missionary journey, a sharp disagreement arose between Paul and Barnabas. Barnabas wanted to take Mark along, whereas Paul did not consider that advisable (Acts 15:37–39). The two apostles even went their separate ways over the matter. It is striking that Paul does not say a single word about it here.

The same Mark whom Paul at the time did not consider it advisable to take along, he now recommends to the Colossians without reservation. Still later, he even writes: “Taking Mark, lead him back with you, for he is useful to me for service” (2 Tim. 4:11). Paul’s earlier assessment was not therefore wrong; rather, Scripture shows how Mark grew into a coworker worthy of the apostle’s full confidence. That is precisely why Paul writes without reservation: ‘receive him’.

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