The term "fellow-bondman" is a translation of the Greek word "σύνδουλος" (syndoulos), which appears in the New Testament to describe individuals who share a common servitude or service, particularly in the context of Christian fellowship and commitment to Christ. This term emphasizes the shared experience and mutual responsibilities of believers as servants of God.

Biblical References:

1. Revelation 6:11 : "Then each of them was given a white robe and told to rest a little while longer, until the full number of their fellow servants and brothers, who were to be killed as they had been, was completed." In this passage, "fellow servants" is synonymous with "fellow-bondmen," highlighting the collective identity and destiny of those who serve Christ, even unto martyrdom.

2. Revelation 19:10 : "So I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, 'Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who rely on the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.'" Here, the angel identifies himself as a "fellow servant," underscoring the unity and equality among those who serve God, whether angelic or human.

3. Revelation 22:9 : "But he said to me, 'Do not do that! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers the prophets, and with those who keep the words of this book. Worship God!'" This verse reiterates the concept of shared servitude among believers and heavenly beings, all of whom are called to worship God alone.

Theological Significance:

The concept of being a "fellow-bondman" is deeply rooted in the Christian understanding of community and service. It reflects the New Testament teaching that all believers are united in their service to Christ, regardless of their earthly status or role. This unity is a fundamental aspect of the Church, the body of Christ, where each member is called to serve one another in love and humility (cf. Galatians 5:13).

The use of "fellow-bondman" also conveys the idea of equality among believers. In the early Christian communities, distinctions of social status, ethnicity, and gender were transcended by the common identity in Christ (cf. Galatians 3:28). This term serves as a reminder that all Christians are equally bound to Christ and to one another, sharing in the same mission and hope.

Practical Implications:

Understanding oneself as a "fellow-bondman" encourages believers to foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual support within the Church. It calls for a commitment to serve others selflessly, following the example of Christ, who "made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant" (Philippians 2:7). This perspective challenges Christians to prioritize the needs of the community and to work together for the advancement of the Gospel.

Moreover, recognizing the shared servitude among believers can inspire perseverance in the face of trials and persecution. The New Testament frequently associates the term with those who suffer for their faith, reminding Christians that they are not alone in their struggles but are part of a larger fellowship that spans both heaven and earth.

In summary, the concept of "fellow-bondman" in the New Testament encapsulates the essence of Christian service, unity, and equality, urging believers to live out their faith in a manner that reflects their shared identity in Christ.Fellow-bondman (6 Occurrences)

Matthew 18:29
His fellow-bondman therefore, having fallen down at his feet, besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee.
(DBY)

Matthew 18:33
shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow-bondman, as I also had compassion on thee?
(DBY)

Colossians 1:7
even as ye learned from Epaphras our beloved fellow-bondman, who is a faithful minister of Christ for you,
(DBY)

Colossians 4:7
Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow-bondman in the Lord, will make known to you all that concerns me;
(DBY)

Revelation 19:10
And I fell before his feet to do him homage. And he says to me, See thou do it not. I am thy fellow-bondman, and the fellow-bondman of thy brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. Do homage to God. For the spirit of prophecy is the testimony of Jesus.
(DBY)

Revelation 22:9
And he says to me, See thou do it not. I am thy fellow-bondman, and the fellow-bondman of thy brethren the prophets, and of those who keep the words of this book. Do homage to God.
(DBY)

Fellow-bondman (6 Occurrences)
Fellow-bondman. Fellow, Fellow-bondman. Fellow-bondmen . Multi-Version
Concordance Fellow-bondman (6 Occurrences). Matthew ...
/f/fellow-bondman.htm - 8k

Homage (51 Occurrences)
... And he says to me, See thou do it not. I am thy fellow-bondman, and the fellow-bondman
of thy brethren who have the testimony of Jesus. Do homage to God. ...
/h/homage.htm - 21k

Fallen (233 Occurrences)
... Matthew 18:29 His fellow-bondman therefore, having fallen down at his feet, besought
him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee. (DBY YLT). ...
/f/fallen.htm - 38k

Fellow-bondmen (4 Occurrences)
Fellow-bondmen. Fellow-bondman, Fellow-bondmen. Fellow-captive . Multi-Version
Concordance ... (DBY). Fellow-bondman, Fellow-bondmen. Fellow-captive . ...
/f/fellow-bondmen.htm - 7k

Concerns (20 Occurrences)
... (WEY). Colossians 4:7 Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister and
fellow-bondman in the Lord, will make known to you all that concerns me; (DBY). ...
/c/concerns.htm - 12k

Fellow (166 Occurrences)

/f/fellow.htm - 42k

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