Colossians 1:7 “As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; 8 Who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit.”
“Epaphras” had “declared unto” Paul, and those with him, the Church’s “love in the Spirit”. This “love in the Spirit” transcends all natural attractions to “love”. This “love” is not based upon appearance, preference, family connection, charisma, intellect, etc. The root cause of this “love” is the Holy Spirit dwelling within us; for, an essential and integral “fruit of the spirit” is “love” (Galatians 5:22). This particular word, “love”, is translated from a word that means “love” that is being demonstrated by actions. It is the same word that is translated “charity” (I Corinthians 13). Paul explains in I Corinthians 13 that this “love”, “charity” is gently-humble, is generous to help others, is forgiving, is self-abasing, endures tribulations, and remains faithful to the Lord and His Church and His Gospel and His people. It is no wonder that “Epaphras” spoke of their “love in the Spirit”; for, such a “love” is the desire of our “born again” (John 3:1-8) hearts, and it draws us and binds us together under the Lord. A Church that radiates this “love in the Spirit”, is indeed “the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.” (Matthew 5:14).