Colossians 3:16
Verse
Context
Put On the New Self
15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful.16Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.17And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
Sermons
Bill McLeod
Warren Wiersbe
William MacDonald
A.W. Tozer
Keith Daniel
Denny KenastonBill McLeodSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly - I believe the apostle means that the Colossians should be well instructed in the doctrine of Christ; that it should be their constant study; that it should be frequently preached, explained, and enforced among them; and that all the wisdom comprised in it should be well understood. Thus the doctrine of God would dwell richly, that is, abundantly, among them. But there appears to be here an allusion to the Shechinah, or symbol of the Divine presence, which dwelt in the tabernacle and first temple; and to an opinion common among the Jews, which is thus expressed in Melchita, fol. 38, 4: כל מקום שהתורה שם שבינה שם עמה; In whatever place the Law is, there the Shechinah is present with it. Nor is this a vain supposition; wherever God's word is seriously read, heard, or preached, there is God himself; and in that Church or religious society where the truth of God is proclaimed and conscientiously believed, there is the constant dwelling of God. Through bad pointing this verse is not very intelligible; the several members of it should be distinguished thus: Let the doctrine of Christ dwell richly among you; teaching and admonishing each other in all wisdom; singing with grace in your hearts unto the Lord, in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. This arrangement the original will not only bear, but it absolutely requires it, and is not sense without it. See the note on Eph 5:19. The singing which is here recommended is widely different from what is commonly used in most Christian congregations; a congeries of unmeaning sounds, associated to bundles of nonsensical, and often ridiculous, repetitions, which at once both deprave and disgrace the Church of Christ. Melody, which is allowed to be the most proper for devotional music, is now sacrificed to an exuberant harmony, which requires, not only many different kinds of voices, but different musical instruments to support it. And by these preposterous means the simplicity of the Christian worship is destroyed, and all edification totally prevented. And this kind of singing is amply proved to be very injurious to the personal piety of those employed in it; even of those who enter with a considerable share of humility and Christian meekness, how few continue to sing with Grace in their hearts unto the Lord?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The form which "thankfulness" (Col 3:15) ought to take. Let the word of Christ--the Gospel word by which ye have been called. richly-- (Col 2:2; Rom 15:14). in all wisdom--ALFORD joins this clause with "teaching," &c., not with "dwell in you," as English Version, for so we find in Col 1:28, "teaching in all wisdom," and the two clauses will thus correspond, "In all wisdom teaching," and "in grace singing in your hears" (so the Greek order). and . . . and--The oldest manuscripts read "psalms, hymns, spiritual songs" (see on Eph 5:19). At the AgapÃ&brvbr or love-feasts, and in their family circles, they were to be so full of the Word of Christ in the heart that the mouth should give it utterance in hymns of instruction, admonition, and praise (compare Deu 6:7). TERTULLIAN [Apology, 39], records that at the love-feasts, after the water had been furnished for the hands and the lights had been literally, according as any had the power, whether by his remembrance of Scripture, or by his powers of composition, he used to be invited to sing praises to God for the common good. Paul contrasts (as in Eph 5:18-19) the songs of Christians at their social meetings, with the bacchanalian and licentious songs of heathen feasts. Singing usually formed part of the entertainment at Greek banquets (compare Jam 5:13). with grace--Greek, "IN grace," the element in which your singing is to be: "the grace" of the indwelling Holy Spirit. This clause expresses the seat and source of true psalmody, whether in private or public, namely, the heart as well as the voice; singing (compare Col 3:15, "peace . . . rule in your hearts"), the psalm of love and praise being in the heart before it finds vent by the lips, and even when it is not actually expressed by the voice, as in closet-worship. The Greek order forbids English Version, "with grace in your hearts"; rather, "singing in your hearts." to the Lord--The oldest manuscripts read, "to God."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Let the word of Christ dwell in you,.... The Alexandrian copy and Arabic version read, "the word of God"; by which may be meant the whole Scripture, all the writings of the Old and New Testament, which are by inspiration of God, were endited by the spirit of Christ, speak and testify of him, and were written for his sake, and on his account, and therefore may be called his word; and are what should be searched into, carefully attended to, diligently read, and frequently meditated upon; and which are able, under a divine blessing, to furnish with all spiritual wisdom, or to make men wise unto salvation: or by the word of Christ may be meant more especially the Gospel, which Christ is the author of as God, the preacher of as man, and the subject matter of as God-man and Mediator: it is the word concerning him, his person and offices; concerning peace and pardon by his blood, justification by his righteousness, and complete salvation through his obedience, sufferings and death. The exhortation to let it dwell in them, supposes that it had entered into them, and had a place in them through the spirit and power of Christ; and that it should have a constant and fixed place there, and not be like a stranger or wayfaring man, that tarries but for a night, or like a sojourner, that continues but for a while; but as an inhabitant that takes up its residence and abode, never more to depart; and intends not only a frequent reading, and hearing of, and meditating upon the word of God but continuance in the doctrines of the Gospel, with a steady faith in them, and a hearty affection for them; for such an inhabitation imports a very exact knowledge of the Gospel, and familiarity with it, and affectionate respect for it; as persons that dwell in a house, they are well known by those of the family, they are familiarly conversed with, and are treated with love and respect by them: and so the word of Christ, when it has a fixed and established abode in a man's heart, he has an inward, spiritual, experimental knowledge of it; he is continually conversant with it; this word of Christ is his delight, and the men of his counsel his guide, his acquaintance, with whom he takes sweet counsel together, and esteems it above the most valuable things in the world, and receives and retains it as the word of God. The manner in which the apostle would have it dwell is richly; that is, largely, plentifully, in an abundant manner, as this word signifies; see Ti1 6:17 and so the Vulgate Latin version renders it here, "abundantly"; and to the same sense the Arabic version. His meaning is, that not one part of the Scripture only should be regarded and attended to but the whole of it, every truth and doctrine in it, even the whole counsel of God; which as it is to be declared and preached in its utmost compass, so all and every part of it is to be received in the love of it, and to be abode in and by; there is a fulness in the Scriptures, an abundance of truth in the Gospel, a large affluence of it; it is a rich treasure, an invaluable mine of precious truths; all which should have a place to their full extent, in both preacher and hearer: and that in all wisdom; or, "unto all wisdom"; in order to attain to all wisdom; not natural wisdom, which is not the design of the Scriptures, nor of the Gospel of Christ; but spiritual wisdom, or wisdom in spiritual things, in things relating to salvation; and which is, and may be arrived unto through attendance to the word of Christ, reading and hearing of it, meditating on it; and especially when accompanied with the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Christ, and which is to be desired and prayed for. Teaching and admonishing one another. The Syriac version renders it, "teach and instruct yourselves"; and may regard not only publicly teaching Christ, his Gospel, the truths and doctrines of it, and all his commands and ordinances, for which he qualifies men, and sends them forth in his name; but private teaching, by conference, prayer, and singing the praises of God, according to the measure of the gift of grace bestowed on everyone: and so admonishing may not only respect that branch of the public ministry, which is so called, and intends a putting into the mind, or putting persons in mind both of their privilege and duty; nor only that part of church discipline which lies in the admonition of a delinquent, but private reproofs, warnings, and exhortations; and as by other ways, so, among the rest, in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs; referring very probably to the title of several of David's psalms, "Maschil", which signifies giving instruction, or causing to understand; these psalms, and the singing of them, being appointed as an ordinance, of God to teach, instruct, admonish, and edify the saints; for the meaning of these three words, and the difference between them; see Gill on Eph 5:19. singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord; that is, singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs; and what is meant by singing of them, see the note on the above place: the manner in which they are to be sung is, "with grace"; meaning either by the assistance of the spirit and grace of God, without which no ordinance can be performed aright, to the glory of God, and to spiritual profit and edification, see Co1 14:15, or with grace in the heart in exercise, particularly faith, without which it is impossible to please God, see Heb 11:6 or with gratitude to God, with thankfulness of heart for his mercies, and under a grateful sense of them; or in such a manner as will minister grace unto the hearers, be both amiable and edifying, see Col 4:6 all these senses may be taken in: that the phrase, "in your hearts"; does not mean mental singing, or what is opposed to singing with the voice; see Gill on Eph 5:19. The object here, as there, is "to the Lord"; the Lord Jesus Christ, to the glory, of his person and grace: the Alexandrian copy, and the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Ethiopic versions read, "to God": and indeed God, in the three divine Persons, and in all his perfections and works, is the object of praise, and his glory is the end of singing praise.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:16 Psalms and hymns and spiritual songs are songs of praise and worship (see 1 Cor 14:26; Eph 5:19). The prototype is the book of Psalms.
Colossians 3:16
Put On the New Self
15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful.16Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.17And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Abide in Christ
By Bill McLeod4.2K48:40AbidingPSA 1:2PSA 1:4JHN 15:5JHN 15:7COL 3:161JN 3:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of spending time with the Word of God. He highlights how many Christians nowadays spend more time in front of the TV than with the Bible. The speaker challenges the audience to examine their own lives and consider if God is satisfied with the amount of time they dedicate to studying the Scriptures. He shares a personal testimony of how he typed out the New Testament and parts of the Gospel of Matthew to ensure he could read and understand it clearly. The speaker concludes by stating that many of the problems in our lives stem from our ignorance of certain things in the Bible.
Meet Your Psychiatrist: He Makes You Rich
By Warren Wiersbe4.2K39:53ZEC 12:101CO 15:9EPH 2:8EPH 4:7EPH 4:11COL 3:16HEB 10:29In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of serving others with grace. He references First Corinthians 15:9-10, where Paul acknowledges his unworthiness but recognizes that it is by the grace of God that he is able to serve. The speaker encourages the congregation to use their unique gifts and abilities to serve others, even if they feel inadequate. He highlights the various ways in which members of the Moody Church are serving, such as visiting hospitals, jails, and homes, and emphasizes that serving others is done for the sake of Jesus, not for personal gain. The sermon also touches on the concept of singing with grace, even in difficult circumstances, and references the examples of Paul and Silas singing in prison and Jesus singing before going to the cross. The speaker concludes by reminding the congregation that God's grace is always available and abundant.
Be Filled With the Spirit
By William MacDonald4.1K37:29Holy SpiritACT 1:6ACT 4:31ROM 12:1COL 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of meeting certain conditions in order to experience the power and filling of the Holy Spirit. The first condition is to have a complete dedication and devotion to Christ, surrendering one's life without reservations. The speaker emphasizes that this is not just talk, but a genuine commitment. The second condition is to be transformed by the renewing of the mind, not conforming to the ways of the world. The speaker highlights the significance of the Holy Spirit's filling, which brings power, boldness, and a great witness to the resurrection of Jesus. The book of Acts serves as an example of how the Holy Spirit's presence and filling can transform ordinary people into powerful vessels for God's work.
Risen With Christ
By A.W. Tozer3.8K27:44ResurrectionCOL 3:1COL 3:5COL 3:12COL 3:16In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of seeking heavenly treasures and putting off worldly desires. He emphasizes that being a Christian requires intentional effort and cultivation of the soul. The preacher highlights the contrast between seeking earthly pleasures and seeking the things of God. He reminds the audience that success in the Christian life is not automatic and encourages them to set their affections on heavenly things and mortify the desires of the flesh. The sermon is based on the biblical passage in Colossians 3:1-5.
Protection From the Power of Satan
By Keith Daniel3.6K1:53:53SatanPSA 119:97PSA 119:105ISA 55:11JHN 17:17ROM 10:17COL 3:162TI 3:16In this sermon transcript, the preacher begins by sharing testimonies of people who were healed during a previous gathering. The atmosphere is filled with excitement and praise. However, the preacher is then confronted with a question about the state of his own home and family. This question leads to a moment of realization for the preacher and his wife, as they acknowledge the need for repentance and salvation in their lives. The preacher's life and ministry are deeply impacted, leading him to seek God through fasting and prayer for two weeks.
Others
By Denny Kenaston3.5K59:55Loving OthersROM 12:10ROM 15:7GAL 5:13EPH 4:2EPH 5:21COL 3:161TH 5:11HEB 10:24JAS 5:161PE 3:81PE 4:91JN 1:71JN 3:161JN 3:181JN 3:23In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his experience of preaching to children on a bus route and how it changed his life. He emphasizes the importance of using simple illustrations to hold the attention of young listeners and share the message of Jesus. The speaker also mentions the impact of sending young people on missions trips, hoping they will become addicted to serving others and make it a guiding principle in their lives. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the profound words spoken by Jesus on the cross, specifically his plea for forgiveness for those who crucified him.
Be Men
By Bill McLeod3.2K37:24Manhood1CO 16:13COL 3:161TI 2:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of fathers taking an active role in teaching the word of God to their children. He references several passages from the Bible, including Deuteronomy 4, 9, and 11, as well as Psalm 44 and 78, to highlight God's expectation for fathers to pass on His truth to their children. The speaker also emphasizes the need for discussing the word of God in the home, incorporating it into daily activities and writing it on their hands. He concludes by reminding husbands to love their wives, as this is essential for a harmonious and godly home.
The Local Church 1 - Part 3
By William MacDonald2.8K08:31MAT 18:20ACT 2:421CO 12:12EPH 4:11PHP 1:1COL 3:161TI 3:1HEB 10:241PE 2:9
This sermon discusses the wisdom of God in not having denominational headquarters, highlighting how it hinders government control and the spread of error. It emphasizes the importance of local churches being independent and representative of the universal church, composed of saints, elders, and deacons, engaging in activities like the Apostles' Doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers. The sermon also stresses that the church is not meant to be an amusement center but a fellowship of forgiven sinners, injecting light and life into a dark world.
Bakht Singh Funeral - Part 9
By Bakht Singh2.8K06:00PRO 3:34JHN 3:31CO 11:23COL 3:16JAS 4:10
This sermon emphasizes the importance of being born again in spirit and establishing a deep relationship with the teachings of the Bhagavad-gita. It calls for humility, respect, and seeking blessings through the spirit of the Bhagavad-gita. The speaker identifies with Arjuna's journey and expresses gratitude for the grace of the Lord, highlighting the significance of worship and following New Testament practices.
A Word of Faith
By Paris Reidhead2.8K00:00FaithPSA 119:11MAT 14:27ROM 10:8ROM 12:11CO 10:3COL 3:162TH 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of faith and belief in achieving one's goals. He uses examples from history, business, and everyday life to illustrate how faith can lead to success. The speaker also discusses the financial needs of the church and encourages the congregation to believe that God will provide for them. He urges them to confess with their mouths and believe in their hearts that God's promises are true. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the congregation to experience the truth of the message and become living proof of God's faithfulness.
(Om Orientation) Our Weapons the Word - Part 1
By George Verwer2.6K27:33Spiritual WarfareDEU 6:7PSA 119:18LUK 24:32EPH 5:19COL 3:16In this sermon, the speaker compares a soldier with a weapon to a believer with the Word of God. He emphasizes the importance of knowing how to effectively use the weapon, just as a soldier must know how to release the safety, pull the trigger, and load ammunition. The speaker highlights the power of the Word of God, describing it as a sharp and discerning sword that can penetrate the deepest parts of the soul. He warns against the watering down of the Bible and emphasizes the need to believe in its divine inspiration. The speaker encourages the audience to meditate on the references given from the Word of God, promising that a revolution of love based on truth will take place in their lives.
Jesus Paid It All
By Keith Daniel2.5K1:26:58Cross of Christ1CH 16:232CH 7:14PSA 100:4MAT 6:33ACT 4:12ROM 12:1EPH 5:19COL 3:16In this video, the speaker expresses gratitude for the pastor and his family for their support during a tour of meetings in different states. The speaker also thanks various individuals for their contributions, such as the music director, the orchestra, and a person named Bob who provided transportation. The speaker emphasizes the importance of preserving traditional hymns and warns against incorporating worldly music into worship. Additionally, the speaker mentions a historical tour they took and expresses appreciation for the meals provided by the pastor and his family.
(Om Orientation) Our Weapons the Word - Part 2
By George Verwer2.3K25:52Spiritual WarfareMAT 22:37ACT 1:8ROM 10:141CO 13:2COL 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prioritizing evangelism and spreading the word of God to the lost souls around us. They argue that many Christian activities can distract us from this essential task. The speaker also highlights the significance of love as the balance in the Christian life and encourages the audience to attend the upcoming session on love. Additionally, the speaker emphasizes the importance of worship and taking time to praise God, rather than just going through the motions in prayer meetings.
(Spiritual Dangers) the Danger of Complacency
By Don Currin2.2K58:49ComplacencyAMO 6:3AMO 6:7MAT 6:33ROM 13:141CO 15:34COL 3:162TI 3:5In this sermon, the preacher describes a scene in a restaurant where people are enjoying their meals and drinks while oblivious to a documentary on global starvation playing on the television monitors. The preacher then goes on to explain four characteristics of spiritual complacency, focusing on the idea of putting far away the day of judgment and creating an environment of violence. The sermon emphasizes the importance of faith accompanied by works and the need to stay on the cutting edge of one's spiritual journey. The preacher concludes with a cautionary tale about becoming so consumed with creature comforts that one becomes deaf to the cries of the perishing.
Practical Applications to Music
By Denny Kenaston2.2K59:10MusicPSA 46:1PSA 95:6GAL 5:7GAL 6:7EPH 5:19COL 3:161TI 1:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discerning the spirit, message, fruit, and lives behind the music we listen to. They highlight the need for music to be rich in the truths of God's word, rather than repetitive or emotionally-driven. The speaker also mentions the importance of sound musical principles and how they have been distorted in modern music. They urge listeners to be cautious of music that promotes adultery, alcoholism, and other sinful behaviors, and instead focus on music that aligns with biblical principles. The sermon references verses from Ephesians 5 and Colossians 3 to support the message.
Power in Prevailing Prayer
By Bill McLeod2.1K31:40Prevailing PrayerPSA 37:5ECC 3:14ISA 44:3JHN 15:7COL 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the greatness of God and how he humbles himself to even look at the things happening on earth. He compares the activities of humans on earth to ants running around on an ant hill, stating that it is not very interesting to God. The preacher shares a testimony of a mother who had been praying for years for a miracle in her family, and how her prayers were answered when her children found salvation. The sermon also highlights the importance of perseverance and opportunity in prayer, using a parable from the 11th chapter of Luke to illustrate these concepts.
Couples Night - Part 10
By Keith Daniel2.1K05:39PRO 3:5ISA 41:10MAT 25:21JHN 3:3EPH 5:20PHP 2:3COL 3:161TH 5:17JAS 5:161PE 5:7
The sermon emphasizes the importance of being born again and committing one's life to Christ. It highlights the gratitude for the opportunity to preach and the hope of returning to share the faith with loved ones. The speaker expresses deep appreciation for his wife's Christlike character and the privilege of having her as the mother of his children. The sermon concludes with a prayer for spiritual growth, protection, and blessings for all present.
The History of Rock - Part 1
By Alan Ives2.1K2:09:12Rock MusicPRO 18:23PRO 20:1PRO 21:21MAT 11:12EPH 5:18COL 3:16HEB 13:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of playing good music and its impact on the attitude of Christians. He refers to First Thessalonians 5 and highlights the various purposes of music, including glorifying God, teaching us how to call upon Him, and sharing testimonies of God's work in our lives. The speaker also discusses the historical significance of music in America, noting that for 300 years, the country thrived on Psalms and spiritual songs. However, he mentions that in the late 19th century, sensual dance rhythms like the rumba entered America, leading to a decline in wholesome music. The sermon concludes with a call to pray and prioritize wholesome music in order to serve the Lord and live a blessed life.
Hope and Help for Single Mothers
By Ann Brubaker2.0K1:00:08MothersNEH 8:10PSA 119:11JER 33:3MAT 6:33EPH 1:17PHP 4:6COL 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and hope in life. They encourage listeners to break the cycle of broken homes and pain, and to set a vision for their children's future. The speaker also highlights the role of mothers in shaping their children's success or failure. They urge listeners to find contentment in God and to recognize that happiness is not dependent on circumstances. The sermon references the Bible, specifically Philippians 4, where Paul expresses his contentment despite being in chains.
Developing Personal Leadership
By Gerhard Du Toit1.8K1:09:57LeadershipPSA 95:1PSA 147:7PSA 149:1MAT 6:33EPH 5:18COL 3:16JAS 1:22In this sermon transcript, the speaker discusses various topics related to the preaching of the word of God. He mentions the importance of leaders having a clear mission and being focused on it. The speaker also talks about the concept of temptation, providing definitions, reasons for its existence, and the process of overcoming it. Additionally, he emphasizes the significance of the infilling of God's Spirit and how it can empower believers to face persecution and opposition. The transcript concludes with a prayer and gratitude for the work of the Holy Spirit in people's lives.
House of Prayer - Part 10
By Jim Cymbala1.8K00:55PSA 133:1EPH 5:19COL 3:16
This sermon emphasizes the power of collective worship and unity in praising God, encouraging everyone to close their eyes and join in singing together as a symbol of harmony and spiritual connection.
Founding of the Salvation Army
By William Booth1.7K02:29PSA 33:3PRO 16:3EPH 6:11COL 3:16
This sermon delves into the origins of The Salvation Army, tracing back to a pivotal moment in 1878 when the description 'Salvation Army' was first introduced by William Booth, emphasizing the organization's purpose and character. The sermon explores the transition to a military form of government and the adoption of a distinctive uniform, highlighting the significance of music in the army's mission and the establishment of a musical department to enhance its impact.
Saved Wives and Unsaved Husbands
By Willie Mullan1.6K1:06:16Unsaved HusbandEPH 5:18COL 3:161PE 3:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of wives being submissive and sensible. He refers to 1 Peter chapter 3, specifically verses 1-6, as one of the greatest messages for wives in the world. The preacher urges wives to respect their husbands, regardless of their qualities, and highlights the significance of every word in the text. He also mentions a humorous encounter with a woman who questioned the idea of being submissive and sensible. Overall, the sermon focuses on the role of saved wives and the importance of their behavior in accordance with biblical teachings.
Things Which Limit Our Ministry
By J. Oswald Sanders1.6K59:56MinistryGAL 5:13EPH 5:18COL 3:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the corrupt nature of the world we live in and the difficulty of maintaining purity. He highlights a verse that speaks of God's power to deliver us from temptation and provide a way to escape. The preacher shares a personal story of a young man who faced a powerful temptation but was able to resist by abiding in Christ and listening to his master's voice. The sermon also touches on the importance of knowing God's voice and the need to protect oneself against sin. The passage in Galatians 5:13 is referenced, reminding believers to use their freedom to serve one another in love.
The Cross and the Ministry of the Unveiled Face
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K1:06:59The CrossROM 6:61CO 1:181CO 2:101CO 2:13COL 3:162TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the ministry of Christ in the world. He highlights that as believers, we are vessels through which Christ ministers to the spiritual needs of others. The speaker encourages the audience to read the letter to the Galatians and reflect on the distinction between the ministry of Christ and our own efforts. He concludes by acknowledging our weaknesses as human vessels but reminds us that we carry the treasure of Christ within us.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly - I believe the apostle means that the Colossians should be well instructed in the doctrine of Christ; that it should be their constant study; that it should be frequently preached, explained, and enforced among them; and that all the wisdom comprised in it should be well understood. Thus the doctrine of God would dwell richly, that is, abundantly, among them. But there appears to be here an allusion to the Shechinah, or symbol of the Divine presence, which dwelt in the tabernacle and first temple; and to an opinion common among the Jews, which is thus expressed in Melchita, fol. 38, 4: כל מקום שהתורה שם שבינה שם עמה; In whatever place the Law is, there the Shechinah is present with it. Nor is this a vain supposition; wherever God's word is seriously read, heard, or preached, there is God himself; and in that Church or religious society where the truth of God is proclaimed and conscientiously believed, there is the constant dwelling of God. Through bad pointing this verse is not very intelligible; the several members of it should be distinguished thus: Let the doctrine of Christ dwell richly among you; teaching and admonishing each other in all wisdom; singing with grace in your hearts unto the Lord, in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. This arrangement the original will not only bear, but it absolutely requires it, and is not sense without it. See the note on Eph 5:19. The singing which is here recommended is widely different from what is commonly used in most Christian congregations; a congeries of unmeaning sounds, associated to bundles of nonsensical, and often ridiculous, repetitions, which at once both deprave and disgrace the Church of Christ. Melody, which is allowed to be the most proper for devotional music, is now sacrificed to an exuberant harmony, which requires, not only many different kinds of voices, but different musical instruments to support it. And by these preposterous means the simplicity of the Christian worship is destroyed, and all edification totally prevented. And this kind of singing is amply proved to be very injurious to the personal piety of those employed in it; even of those who enter with a considerable share of humility and Christian meekness, how few continue to sing with Grace in their hearts unto the Lord?
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The form which "thankfulness" (Col 3:15) ought to take. Let the word of Christ--the Gospel word by which ye have been called. richly-- (Col 2:2; Rom 15:14). in all wisdom--ALFORD joins this clause with "teaching," &c., not with "dwell in you," as English Version, for so we find in Col 1:28, "teaching in all wisdom," and the two clauses will thus correspond, "In all wisdom teaching," and "in grace singing in your hears" (so the Greek order). and . . . and--The oldest manuscripts read "psalms, hymns, spiritual songs" (see on Eph 5:19). At the AgapÃ&brvbr or love-feasts, and in their family circles, they were to be so full of the Word of Christ in the heart that the mouth should give it utterance in hymns of instruction, admonition, and praise (compare Deu 6:7). TERTULLIAN [Apology, 39], records that at the love-feasts, after the water had been furnished for the hands and the lights had been literally, according as any had the power, whether by his remembrance of Scripture, or by his powers of composition, he used to be invited to sing praises to God for the common good. Paul contrasts (as in Eph 5:18-19) the songs of Christians at their social meetings, with the bacchanalian and licentious songs of heathen feasts. Singing usually formed part of the entertainment at Greek banquets (compare Jam 5:13). with grace--Greek, "IN grace," the element in which your singing is to be: "the grace" of the indwelling Holy Spirit. This clause expresses the seat and source of true psalmody, whether in private or public, namely, the heart as well as the voice; singing (compare Col 3:15, "peace . . . rule in your hearts"), the psalm of love and praise being in the heart before it finds vent by the lips, and even when it is not actually expressed by the voice, as in closet-worship. The Greek order forbids English Version, "with grace in your hearts"; rather, "singing in your hearts." to the Lord--The oldest manuscripts read, "to God."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Let the word of Christ dwell in you,.... The Alexandrian copy and Arabic version read, "the word of God"; by which may be meant the whole Scripture, all the writings of the Old and New Testament, which are by inspiration of God, were endited by the spirit of Christ, speak and testify of him, and were written for his sake, and on his account, and therefore may be called his word; and are what should be searched into, carefully attended to, diligently read, and frequently meditated upon; and which are able, under a divine blessing, to furnish with all spiritual wisdom, or to make men wise unto salvation: or by the word of Christ may be meant more especially the Gospel, which Christ is the author of as God, the preacher of as man, and the subject matter of as God-man and Mediator: it is the word concerning him, his person and offices; concerning peace and pardon by his blood, justification by his righteousness, and complete salvation through his obedience, sufferings and death. The exhortation to let it dwell in them, supposes that it had entered into them, and had a place in them through the spirit and power of Christ; and that it should have a constant and fixed place there, and not be like a stranger or wayfaring man, that tarries but for a night, or like a sojourner, that continues but for a while; but as an inhabitant that takes up its residence and abode, never more to depart; and intends not only a frequent reading, and hearing of, and meditating upon the word of God but continuance in the doctrines of the Gospel, with a steady faith in them, and a hearty affection for them; for such an inhabitation imports a very exact knowledge of the Gospel, and familiarity with it, and affectionate respect for it; as persons that dwell in a house, they are well known by those of the family, they are familiarly conversed with, and are treated with love and respect by them: and so the word of Christ, when it has a fixed and established abode in a man's heart, he has an inward, spiritual, experimental knowledge of it; he is continually conversant with it; this word of Christ is his delight, and the men of his counsel his guide, his acquaintance, with whom he takes sweet counsel together, and esteems it above the most valuable things in the world, and receives and retains it as the word of God. The manner in which the apostle would have it dwell is richly; that is, largely, plentifully, in an abundant manner, as this word signifies; see Ti1 6:17 and so the Vulgate Latin version renders it here, "abundantly"; and to the same sense the Arabic version. His meaning is, that not one part of the Scripture only should be regarded and attended to but the whole of it, every truth and doctrine in it, even the whole counsel of God; which as it is to be declared and preached in its utmost compass, so all and every part of it is to be received in the love of it, and to be abode in and by; there is a fulness in the Scriptures, an abundance of truth in the Gospel, a large affluence of it; it is a rich treasure, an invaluable mine of precious truths; all which should have a place to their full extent, in both preacher and hearer: and that in all wisdom; or, "unto all wisdom"; in order to attain to all wisdom; not natural wisdom, which is not the design of the Scriptures, nor of the Gospel of Christ; but spiritual wisdom, or wisdom in spiritual things, in things relating to salvation; and which is, and may be arrived unto through attendance to the word of Christ, reading and hearing of it, meditating on it; and especially when accompanied with the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Christ, and which is to be desired and prayed for. Teaching and admonishing one another. The Syriac version renders it, "teach and instruct yourselves"; and may regard not only publicly teaching Christ, his Gospel, the truths and doctrines of it, and all his commands and ordinances, for which he qualifies men, and sends them forth in his name; but private teaching, by conference, prayer, and singing the praises of God, according to the measure of the gift of grace bestowed on everyone: and so admonishing may not only respect that branch of the public ministry, which is so called, and intends a putting into the mind, or putting persons in mind both of their privilege and duty; nor only that part of church discipline which lies in the admonition of a delinquent, but private reproofs, warnings, and exhortations; and as by other ways, so, among the rest, in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs; referring very probably to the title of several of David's psalms, "Maschil", which signifies giving instruction, or causing to understand; these psalms, and the singing of them, being appointed as an ordinance, of God to teach, instruct, admonish, and edify the saints; for the meaning of these three words, and the difference between them; see Gill on Eph 5:19. singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord; that is, singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs; and what is meant by singing of them, see the note on the above place: the manner in which they are to be sung is, "with grace"; meaning either by the assistance of the spirit and grace of God, without which no ordinance can be performed aright, to the glory of God, and to spiritual profit and edification, see Co1 14:15, or with grace in the heart in exercise, particularly faith, without which it is impossible to please God, see Heb 11:6 or with gratitude to God, with thankfulness of heart for his mercies, and under a grateful sense of them; or in such a manner as will minister grace unto the hearers, be both amiable and edifying, see Col 4:6 all these senses may be taken in: that the phrase, "in your hearts"; does not mean mental singing, or what is opposed to singing with the voice; see Gill on Eph 5:19. The object here, as there, is "to the Lord"; the Lord Jesus Christ, to the glory, of his person and grace: the Alexandrian copy, and the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Ethiopic versions read, "to God": and indeed God, in the three divine Persons, and in all his perfections and works, is the object of praise, and his glory is the end of singing praise.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:16 Psalms and hymns and spiritual songs are songs of praise and worship (see 1 Cor 14:26; Eph 5:19). The prototype is the book of Psalms.