Who was Nymphas?

Nymphas (Greek: Νυμφᾶς, Numphas) was a Christian believer mentioned by the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Colossians. His name appears in Colossians 4:15:

“Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house.” (Colossians 4:15, NIV)

The name Νυμφᾶς can be masculine (Nymphas) or feminine (Nympha), depending on the Greek manuscript variant. Some ancient manuscripts have the masculine form, while others suggest the name is feminine. Regardless, the context in the epistle suggests a figure—either man or woman—who played a significant role in the early church, especially by hosting a house church.

Whether male or female, Nymphas was a devoted follower of Christ who offered their home as a gathering place for believers in the city of Laodicea. This simple mention reveals the person’s spiritual maturity, generosity, and influence in the local Christian community.

Biblical Reference

• Colossians 4:15 – “Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house.”

Cross References

• Romans 16:3-5 – Paul greets Priscilla and Aquila and the church that meets in their house.

• 1 Corinthians 16:19 – Mention of Aquila and Priscilla again, and a house church.

• Philemon 1:2 – The church in Philemon’s home is also mentioned.

These references show that house churches were a vital part of early Christian life, often hosted by mature believers like Nymphas.

Nymphas in the Life of the Early Church

Nymphas was a Laodicean Christian who, like many others in the early church, made their home available for worship, fellowship, teaching, and possibly even evangelism. In a time when Christianity had no designated church buildings, homes became the primary gathering places for believers. Nymphas’ hospitality and faithfulness to the gospel are demonstrated by Paul’s special mention in his epistle.

By including this greeting, Paul affirmed the importance of local believers who supported the ministry not just through proclamation but through practical service. Hosting a church in one’s home meant sacrifice, vulnerability, and bold identification with the faith during a time of increasing persecution.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

Nymphas reminds us that every believer has a role to play in the body of Christ. Not all are called to public preaching or missionary work, but every believer can offer their time, resources, and home in service to the gospel. Nymphas’ example teaches us the importance of hospitality, community, and using what we have to advance the kingdom of God.

This also reminds modern Christians that the church is not primarily a building but a people—gathered around the Word, the gospel, and the risen Christ. Wherever God’s people meet in His name, the church is present.

How Nymphas Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Nymphas’ role as a host for the church is a quiet but powerful echo of Jesus‘ servant-hearted ministry. Just as Jesus opened His life and time to sinners, disciples, and the needy, so too did Nymphas open their home to the church. Their generosity reflects the gospel’s transforming power—a life touched by Christ becomes a life that serves others.

Moreover, the community formed in Nymphas’ house mirrors the spiritual family created by Christ. It represents the fellowship of believers, rooted in the gospel, where unity and love abound. Every house church in the New Testament was a mini-reflection of the broader gospel mission—multiplying communities of faith in Christ.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Hospitality in the Early Church

Hospitality was essential in spreading the gospel during the first century. Faithful believers like Nymphas provided safe places for worship, teaching, and fellowship (Romans 12:13; Hebrews 13:2). Their homes became sanctuaries of spiritual growth and mission.

2. The Church as the Body of Christ

The fact that churches met in homes highlights the relational and organic nature of the early church. This reinforces Paul’s teaching that the church is not a structure but a living body of believers (Ephesians 4:15-16; 1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

3. Faithfulness in the Small Things

Though Nymphas is only mentioned once, their example shows how even small, quiet acts of service are seen and honored in God’s kingdom. Their faithfulness became a vital part of the church’s life in Laodicea, just as our faithfulness today—no matter how humble—is precious to God.

4. Spiritual Leadership Without a Title

Nymphas likely held no formal title, yet hosted a church. This aligns with the biblical truth that all believers are called to be ministers of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-20), not just pastors or apostles.

Reflection Questions

1. Do I view my home and resources as tools for serving the body of Christ and the gospel mission?

2. Am I willing to serve in quiet, behind-the-scenes ways, like Nymphas did?

3. How can I cultivate biblical hospitality within my community?

4. What does it look like for me personally to be the “church” in my everyday life?

5. How can my life reflect Christ in tangible acts of service and generosity?

Nymphas, though briefly mentioned, offers a rich example of faithful Christian service. Their story shows how God uses ordinary people and ordinary spaces—like homes—to accomplish extraordinary kingdom purposes. Let every believer be inspired to open their life to Christ, just as Nymphas opened their home to His people.