4:3 {3} Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a {a} door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:
(3) Those who minister the word, must especially be entrusted to the prayers of the Church.
(a) An open and free mouth to preach the Gospel.
4:3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance. Note the spirit of this prayer; not a thought of his ease, comfort, or even safety, but only that he may be given full opportunity to preach Christ. So sublime a self-forgetfulness in a suffering prisoner is almost divine.
The mystery of Christ. The gospel of Christ. It was a mystery, i.e. a hidden truth until it was revealed. See 1Co 4:1 Eph 6:19 Col 1:26 2:2.
In bonds. See notes on Eph 6:20 Php 1:7.
4:3 That God would open to us a door of utterance - That is, give us utterance, that we may open our mouth boldly, Eph 6:19, and give us an opportunity of speaking, so that none may be able to hinder.
4:2-6 No duties can be done aright, unless we persevere in fervent prayer, and watch therein with thanksgiving. The people are to pray particularly for their ministers. Believers are exhorted to right conduct towards unbelievers. Be careful in all converse with them, to do them good, and recommend religion by all fit means. Diligence in redeeming time, commends religion to the good opinion of others. Even what is only carelessness may cause a lasting prejudice against the truth. Let all discourse be discreet and seasonable, as becomes Christians. Though it be not always of grace, it must always be with grace. Though our discourse be of that which is common, yet it must be in a Christian manner. Grace is the salt which seasons our discourse, and keeps it from corrupting. It is not enough to answer what is asked, unless we answer aright also.
