Colossians 4:5
Verse
Context
Sermons
Richard Sipley
William B. Riley
John Gill
W.H. Griffith Thomas
Walter Wilson
Thomas Brooks
Ray ComfortSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Walk in wisdom - Act wisely and prudently in reference to them who are without - who yet continue unbelieving Gentiles or persecuting Jews. The Church of Christ was considered an enclosure; a field, or vineyard, well hedged or walled. Those who were not members of it, were considered without; i.e. not under that especial protection and defense which the true followers of Christ had. This has been since called "The pale of the Church," from palus, a stake; or, as Dr. Johnson defines it, "A narrow piece of wood, joined above and below to a rail, to enclose grounds." As to be a Christian was essential to the salvation of the soul, so to be in the Church of Christ was essential to the being a Christian; therefore it was concluded that "there was no salvation out of the pale of the Church." Now this is true in all places where the doctrines of Christianity are preached; but when one description of people professing Christianity, with their own peculiar mode of worship and creed, arrogate to themselves, exclusive of all others, the title of The Church; and then, on the ground of a maxim which is true in itself, but falsely understood and applied by them, assert that, as they are The Church, and there is no Church besides, then you must be one of them, believe as they believe, and worship as they worship, or you will be infallibly damned; I say, when this is asserted, every man who feels he has an immortal spirit is called on to examine the pretensions of such spiritual monopolists. Now, as the Church of Christ is formed on the foundation of the prophets and apostles, Jesus Christ being the chief corner stone, the doctrines of this Christian Church must be sought for in the sacred Scriptures. As to fathers, councils, and human authorities of all kinds, they are, in this question, lighter than vanity; the book of God alone must decide. The Church, which has been so hasty to condemn all others, and, by its own soi disant or self-constituted authority, to make itself the determiner of the fates of men, dealing out the mansions of glory to its partisans, and the abodes of endless misery to all those who are out of its antichristian and inhuman pale; this Church, I say, has been brought to this standard, and proved by the Scriptures to be fallen from the faith of God's elect, and to be most awfully and dangerously corrupt; and to be within its pale, of all others professing Christianity, would be the most likely means of endangering the final salvation of the soul. Yet even in it many sincere and upright persons may be found, who, in spirit and practice, belong to the true Church of Christ. Such persons are to be found of all religious persuasions, and in all sorts of Christian societies. Redeeming the time - See on Eph 5:16 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(See on Eph 5:15-16.) in wisdom--practical Christian prudence. them . . . without--Those not in the Christian brotherhood (Co1 5:12; Th1 4:12). The brethren, through love, will make allowances for an indiscreet act or word of a brother; the world will make none. Therefore be the more on your guard in your intercourse with the latter, lest you be a stumbling-block to their conversion. redeeming the time--The Greek expresses, buying up for yourselves, and buying off from worldly vanities the opportunity, whenever it is afforded you, of good to yourselves and others. "Forestall the opportunity, that is, to buy up an article out of the market, so as to make the largest profit from it" [CONYBEARE and HOWSON].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Walk in wisdom,.... Or wisely, circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise men; See Gill on Eph 5:15. Towards them that are without; so the Jews used to call the Gentiles, all that were out of their own land, that were not of their nation or religion, who were aliens from them, and strangers to their privileges; and sometimes the unbelieving. Jews bear the same character, see Mar 4:11. Here it may design such who were not members of this church; so the distinction of those that are without, and such as are within, is used by the apostle in Co1 5:12. A church is an house or family, and such as belong to it are called the household of faith, and those that do not are they that are, without; it is as a city, and, those that are of it are fellow citizens with the saints, but others are strangers and foreigners; it is a garden enclosed, they that are planted in it are those that are within, and such as lie in the wide open field of the world are those that are without: but inasmuch as there are some who are not members of churches, and yet have the grace of God, this phrase may chiefly regard all unregenerate men, profane sinners, such as have not faith in Christ, nor hope in God, who are entirely destitute of the grace of God. Now it becomes saints to walk wisely towards them; all communication with them is not cut off, or correspondence and conversation with them forbidden; the saints indeed are not to have their conversation among them as in times past; they are to have no fellowship with them in immoral actions, and superstitious practices; but they may be concerned with them in things civil, with respect to trade and commerce, and the common business of life; on these accounts they may keep company with them; otherwise, as the apostle elsewhere says, they must needs go out of the world. But then it is incumbent upon them to behave wisely towards them, with the simplicity of the dove to join the wisdom of the serpent; they should walk inoffensively towards them, and do nothing to provoke them, to injure and persecute them, but take all prudent methods to gain their affections, escape their resentment and wrath, and obtain their liberty of worshipping God without disturbance; they should give to all their due, tribute, custom, fear, and honour, to whom they are due, and owe no man anything but love; they should submit to every ordinance of men and be subject to the higher powers, not only to escape wrath, but for conscience sake, and should give to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; they should pray for kings, and all in authority; for the prosperity of the nation, city, and place where they are, for their carnal relations and neighbours, and even their very entities, and do them all the good, both for soul and body, that lies in their power, and as they have opportunity; and by so doing, they will heap up coals of fire on their heads. Such a prudent walk, and wise conduct, is necessary on account of the Gospel, that the public ministration of it may be continued, that it may spread and get ground, and that it may not be reproached and blasphemed; and on the account of them that are without, that they may not have any stumblingblocks laid in their way, and they be hardened in their impiety and irreligion, and be more set against the truths of the Gospel; and also on account of believers themselves, who ought so to converse with the men of the world, that they are not partakers with them in their sins, and have their manners corrupted by them, or the vital heat of religion damped, and they become dead, lifeless, lukewarm, and indifferent to divine things, which is often the case through an indiscreet and imprudent walk with such men: the apostle adds, redeeming the time; as an instance of prudent walking towards them that are without; See Gill on Eph 5:16.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts them further to a prudent and decent conduct towards all those with whom they conversed, towards the heathen world, or those out of the Christian church among whom they lived (Col 4:5): Walk in wisdom towards those who are without. Be careful, in all your converse with them, to get no hurt by them, or contract any of their customs; for evil communications corrupt good manners; and to do not hurt to them, or increase their prejudices against religion, and give them an occasion of dislike. Yea, do them all the good you can, and by all the fittest means and in the proper seasons recommend religion to them. - Redeeming the time; that is, either "improving every opportunity of doing them good, and making the best use of your time in proper duty" (diligence in redeeming time very much recommends religion to the good opinion of others), or else "walking cautiously and with circumspections, to give them no advantage against you, nor expose yourselves to their malice and ill-will," Eph 5:15, Eph 5:16. Walk circumspectly, redeeming the time, because the days are evil, that is, dangerous, or times of trouble and suffering. And towards others, or those who are within as well as those who are without, "Let your speech be always with grace, Col 4:6. Let all your discourse be as becomes Christians, suitable to your profession - savoury, discreet, seasonable." Though it be not always of grace, it must be always with grace; and, though the matter of our discourse be that which is common, yet there must be an air of piety upon it and it must be in a Christian manner seasoned with salt. Grace is the salt which seasons our discourse, makes it savoury, and keeps it from corrupting. That you may know how to answer every man. One answer is proper for one man, and another for another man Pro 26:4, Pro 26:5. We have need of a great deal of wisdom and grace to give proper answers to every man, particularly in answering the questions and objections of adversaries against our religion, giving the reasons of our faith, and showing the unreasonableness of their exceptions and cavils to the best advantage for our cause and least prejudice to ourselves. Be ready always to give an answer to every man who asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear, Pe1 3:15.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:5 make the most of every opportunity (literally buy up the time): Like people who are buying up a product offered at a good price, Christians are to “buy up” every opportunity God gives them to share the Good News and to serve others.
Colossians 4:5
Prayerful Speech and Actions
4Pray that I may declare it clearly, as I should.5Act wisely toward outsiders, redeeming the time.6Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Joshua (Part 4)
By Richard Sipley1.3K50:54EPH 2:10EPH 4:1EPH 4:17COL 4:51TH 2:121JN 1:71JN 2:6In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about how his congregation built an education building in Miami in just nine months, without incurring any debt. He emphasizes the importance of taking steps of faith and trusting God's guidance in order to accomplish what He wants us to do. The speaker also references the story of Joshua and the walls of Jericho, highlighting the perseverance and obedience required to see God's promises fulfilled. He encourages the audience to take the first step in doing what God wants them to do, even if they feel afraid or uncertain.
Redeeming the Time
By William B. Riley1.2K01:12Time ManagementEvangelismPSA 90:12MAT 28:19EPH 5:15COL 4:5JAS 4:14William B. Riley emphasizes the importance of redeeming our time for God, sharing a personal story of a boy he spoke to years ago who later became a pastor. He reflects on the profound impact that a brief conversation about Christ can have on someone's life and the urgency of making the most of our time with others. Riley expresses regret for not investing more time in conversations that could lead to conversion, urging listeners to recognize the potential for marvelous results in their interactions. The sermon calls for a commitment to use our time wisely in service to God and others.
1 Peter 2:12
By John Gill0Witnessing to Non-BelieversChristian ConductMAT 5:16ROM 12:172CO 8:21PHP 2:15COL 4:51TH 4:121TI 3:7TIT 2:7HEB 13:181PE 2:12John Gill emphasizes the importance of living an honest and upright life among non-believers, as instructed in 1 Peter 2:12. He explains that Christians, particularly Jewish converts, must conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the Gospel, especially when surrounded by those who may accuse them of wrongdoing. By demonstrating good works, believers can counteract false accusations and ultimately glorify God, whether in times of judgment or mercy. Gill highlights that the integrity of a Christian's life can lead others to recognize God's goodness and grace.
Personal Work
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0JHN 1:40ACT 8:26COL 4:52TI 4:51PE 3:15W.H. Griffith Thomas emphasizes the importance of individual and personal work in the Christian life, highlighting how evangelism in the New Testament was primarily through personal interactions and testimonies. The duty of personal witnessing is crucial for Christian workers, especially ministers, as it reflects loyalty to Christ and a desire to bring others to the Kingdom of God. The reality of one's relationship with God is essential for effective personal work, as seen in the story of Philip and the Eunuch, showcasing qualities like spirituality, faithfulness, tactfulness, and definiteness in leading souls to Christ.
How Does the Butterfly Get Out?
By Walter Wilson0GEN 1:27ROM 1:201CO 15:42COL 4:51PE 3:15Walter Wilson addresses the prevalence of the theory of evolution in schools and colleges, emphasizing the need for Christians to counteract this false teaching. He argues that the intricate design in nature, such as the unique odor, taste, color, and shape of various creations, points to a deliberate decision by the living God. Wilson also discusses the mystery of life and power, drawing parallels between the resurrection of seeds in nature and the future resurrection of human bodies. Through a compelling encounter with a skeptical student, Wilson challenges the notion of rejecting truths simply because they are beyond human understanding, ultimately leading some to accept Christ as their Savior.
A Jewel More Worth Than a World!
By Thomas Brooks0Value of TimeAccountabilityPSA 90:12ECC 3:1MAT 25:14ROM 13:112CO 5:10GAL 6:10EPH 5:16COL 4:5JAS 4:141PE 4:7Thomas Brooks emphasizes the immense value of time, likening it to a jewel that surpasses worldly riches. He urges believers to recognize that time is a divine talent for which they will be held accountable, and stresses the urgency of using it wisely to fulfill their spiritual responsibilities. Brooks highlights the various tasks at hand, including saving souls, honoring God, and overcoming temptations, all of which require diligent use of time. He calls on the congregation to reflect on their lives and the importance of redeeming the time in light of the evil days we live in.
Be Careful What You Pray
By Ray Comfort0PRO 16:3MAT 10:19COL 4:52TI 4:21PE 3:15Ray Comfort shares a powerful testimony of how God answers prayers, even when they are mumbled. Through various encounters throughout the day, Ray engages with individuals from different backgrounds, sharing the gospel and challenging them to consider their eternal destination. Despite some awkward moments, Ray remains faithful in presenting the message of repentance, faith, and the importance of being prepared to face God.
The Dissatisfaction of Francis Schaeffer (Part 3-Hospitality at L’abri)
By Francis Schaeffer0PRO 27:17MAT 5:161CO 3:6COL 4:51PE 3:15Francis Schaeffer and his wife Edith established L'Abri ('The Shelter') in Switzerland, offering a welcoming environment for students to engage in conversations about philosophical and religious ideas. Through their open home, the Schaeffers provided honest answers to honest questions, leading to conversions and volunteers joining their ministry. Despite facing challenges and financial struggles, L'Abri grew into a renowned place of learning and discussion, attracting individuals from around the world seeking meaning and truth in a post-Christian society.
The Time Is Short - Eph. 5:16
By Bernard Fell0MAT 25:211CO 3:12EPH 5:16COL 4:51TH 5:6Bernard Fell preaches on the importance of seizing the opportunity to redeem the time in the midst of evil days, emphasizing the value of each moment as a precious gift from God. He urges believers to seek God's approval above all else, warning against investing in worldly praise which leads to eternal loss. Fell encourages the congregation to focus on present responsibilities, using time wisely to serve others, pray earnestly, and reflect the love of Christ in all actions, while eagerly awaiting the return of the Lord.
If Ye Love the Light, and Walk in It
By George Fox0ROM 6:4ROM 8:4COL 2:6COL 3:7COL 4:5The preacher delves into the significance of 'walking' in the Bible, exploring the literal and metaphorical uses of the term 'peripateo'. Paul emphasizes the metaphorical sense of 'walking' as conducting one's life in a manner that reflects Christ, urging believers to live in union with Him. The sermon highlights the importance of believers regulating their behavior and ordering their conduct in a way that pleases God and blesses mankind, emphasizing the need to crucify the self-life and allow the Holy Spirit to lead and produce fruit of holy living.
Colossians 4:5, 6
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 10:16ACT 17:22ROM 12:151CO 5:122CO 4:5EPH 6:21COL 4:5HEB 13:3John Chrysostom preaches on the importance of walking in wisdom towards those outside the faith, redeeming the time and being gracious in speech. He emphasizes the need to be cautious and wise in interactions with non-believers, avoiding unnecessary conflicts and being mindful of how to respond to each person appropriately. Chrysostom encourages believers to be moderate, gracious, and bold in their speech, tailored to edify and build up others. He highlights the significance of supporting fellow believers, sharing in their joys, and refraining from envy, as it ultimately harms oneself and the body of Christ.
The Jerboa or Mouse
By Harriet N. Cook0MAT 10:34JHN 15:19JHN 17:14ROM 10:13EPH 6:19PHP 3:20COL 4:52TI 2:91PE 2:111PE 3:15John MacArthur preaches on the role of believers as ambassadors of Christ, emphasizing the threefold nature of being an ambassador: commissioning for a special assignment, representing the sender, and exercising the authority of the sender. Ambassadors of Christ are not always welcomed in a world opposed to God's truth, as warned by Jesus in John 15:19-20 and John 17:14. Paul exemplifies this role by being an ambassador in chains, boldly proclaiming the Gospel despite his circumstances, as seen in Ephesians 6:19-20.
Wisdom and Grace; Or, Within and Without
By H.J. Vine0PRO 4:7PRO 21:30JHN 1:17JHN 14:91CO 1:30EPH 5:1COL 1:9COL 4:5H.J. Vine preaches about the importance of cultivating the friendship between wisdom and grace as believers, as they are both attributes of God. Believers are encouraged to walk with wisdom and grace, benefiting not only themselves but also others they encounter. The sermon emphasizes the need to understand and appreciate the privileges of fellowship with God within, before learning how to walk without in wisdom and grace. It highlights the divine wisdom and unselfish grace that believers are called to exhibit towards those outside, reflecting God's heart for all to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.
Redeeming the Time
By A.B. Simpson0Seizing OpportunitiesSpiritual VigilancePSA 90:12MAT 25:1EPH 5:15COL 4:5JAS 4:14A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of seizing divine opportunities in his sermon 'Redeeming the Time.' He explains that the Greek term 'ton kairon' refers to specific moments filled with potential that must be grasped before they vanish, likening them to rare flowers in a desert or unique business opportunities. Simpson urges believers to be spiritually vigilant and wise, understanding God's will and acting decisively in moments that can lead to salvation, love, and victory over sin. He encourages the congregation to redeem these fleeting opportunities for spiritual growth and service.
Venomous Gospel Preachers
By Ray Comfort0EXO 20:4MRK 9:39ROM 1:161CO 9:22PHP 1:18COL 4:51PE 3:15Ray Comfort addresses the controversies surrounding Hollywood movies like 'The Ten Commandments' and 'The Passion of the Christ,' emphasizing the importance of focusing on the truth of the Gospel amidst artistic liberties taken in these films. He challenges Christians to use these movies as opportunities to share the message of salvation rather than getting caught up in criticisms. Drawing from Paul's attitude in Philippians, he encourages rejoicing in the preaching of Christ even when accompanied by imperfections or controversies.
Pierce the Hearts of the Heathen
By George Fox0PRO 16:7ISA 60:1EPH 5:2COL 4:51PE 3:15George Fox preaches about the importance of spreading the Name and Truth of the Lord, being diligent in His service, and valiant for His Truth on Earth. He emphasizes the need to pierce the hearts of unbelievers, overturn their customs, and bring the Truth over the heads of the heathen. Fox encourages living in peace and love, confounding deceit, and being a blessing in the generation by walking in the Power and Wisdom of the Lord.
Epistle 158
By George Fox0PeaceUnity in ChristHAB 1:3MAT 5:8MAT 8:11JHN 1:3ROM 13:10ROM 14:17ROM 14:191CO 8:11CO 13:41CO 15:47GAL 3:29GAL 4:24GAL 5:13COL 4:5TIT 2:111PE 1:22REV 3:10George Fox emphasizes the importance of living in peace and love, urging his listeners to avoid strife and contention, which undermine the good and do not edify. He highlights that true peace is found in the Holy Spirit and encourages believers to support one another in faith and grace, fostering unity and patience. Fox reminds the congregation that they are called to be peacemakers, inheriting the kingdom of God, and to live in a way that reflects the love of Christ, which fulfills the law. He calls for a rejection of prejudice and urges everyone to embrace the seed of life and peace that reigns within them, leading to eternal joy and comfort. Ultimately, he concludes with a blessing for grace and guidance from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Number Your Days
By E.A. Adeboye0PSA 90:12PRO 16:9EPH 5:15COL 4:5JAS 4:14E.A. Adeboye emphasizes the importance of numbering our days to gain wisdom and make the most of our time on Earth. By breaking down our years into days, we can prioritize our activities, especially in spending time with God. Adeboye urges believers to redeem the time lost to worldly pursuits and focus on glorifying God in all we do. Setting specific targets and goals for each day, week, month, and year, supported by prayer, can help us achieve our purpose and make every minute count before being held accountable on Judgement day.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Walk in wisdom - Act wisely and prudently in reference to them who are without - who yet continue unbelieving Gentiles or persecuting Jews. The Church of Christ was considered an enclosure; a field, or vineyard, well hedged or walled. Those who were not members of it, were considered without; i.e. not under that especial protection and defense which the true followers of Christ had. This has been since called "The pale of the Church," from palus, a stake; or, as Dr. Johnson defines it, "A narrow piece of wood, joined above and below to a rail, to enclose grounds." As to be a Christian was essential to the salvation of the soul, so to be in the Church of Christ was essential to the being a Christian; therefore it was concluded that "there was no salvation out of the pale of the Church." Now this is true in all places where the doctrines of Christianity are preached; but when one description of people professing Christianity, with their own peculiar mode of worship and creed, arrogate to themselves, exclusive of all others, the title of The Church; and then, on the ground of a maxim which is true in itself, but falsely understood and applied by them, assert that, as they are The Church, and there is no Church besides, then you must be one of them, believe as they believe, and worship as they worship, or you will be infallibly damned; I say, when this is asserted, every man who feels he has an immortal spirit is called on to examine the pretensions of such spiritual monopolists. Now, as the Church of Christ is formed on the foundation of the prophets and apostles, Jesus Christ being the chief corner stone, the doctrines of this Christian Church must be sought for in the sacred Scriptures. As to fathers, councils, and human authorities of all kinds, they are, in this question, lighter than vanity; the book of God alone must decide. The Church, which has been so hasty to condemn all others, and, by its own soi disant or self-constituted authority, to make itself the determiner of the fates of men, dealing out the mansions of glory to its partisans, and the abodes of endless misery to all those who are out of its antichristian and inhuman pale; this Church, I say, has been brought to this standard, and proved by the Scriptures to be fallen from the faith of God's elect, and to be most awfully and dangerously corrupt; and to be within its pale, of all others professing Christianity, would be the most likely means of endangering the final salvation of the soul. Yet even in it many sincere and upright persons may be found, who, in spirit and practice, belong to the true Church of Christ. Such persons are to be found of all religious persuasions, and in all sorts of Christian societies. Redeeming the time - See on Eph 5:16 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(See on Eph 5:15-16.) in wisdom--practical Christian prudence. them . . . without--Those not in the Christian brotherhood (Co1 5:12; Th1 4:12). The brethren, through love, will make allowances for an indiscreet act or word of a brother; the world will make none. Therefore be the more on your guard in your intercourse with the latter, lest you be a stumbling-block to their conversion. redeeming the time--The Greek expresses, buying up for yourselves, and buying off from worldly vanities the opportunity, whenever it is afforded you, of good to yourselves and others. "Forestall the opportunity, that is, to buy up an article out of the market, so as to make the largest profit from it" [CONYBEARE and HOWSON].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Walk in wisdom,.... Or wisely, circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise men; See Gill on Eph 5:15. Towards them that are without; so the Jews used to call the Gentiles, all that were out of their own land, that were not of their nation or religion, who were aliens from them, and strangers to their privileges; and sometimes the unbelieving. Jews bear the same character, see Mar 4:11. Here it may design such who were not members of this church; so the distinction of those that are without, and such as are within, is used by the apostle in Co1 5:12. A church is an house or family, and such as belong to it are called the household of faith, and those that do not are they that are, without; it is as a city, and, those that are of it are fellow citizens with the saints, but others are strangers and foreigners; it is a garden enclosed, they that are planted in it are those that are within, and such as lie in the wide open field of the world are those that are without: but inasmuch as there are some who are not members of churches, and yet have the grace of God, this phrase may chiefly regard all unregenerate men, profane sinners, such as have not faith in Christ, nor hope in God, who are entirely destitute of the grace of God. Now it becomes saints to walk wisely towards them; all communication with them is not cut off, or correspondence and conversation with them forbidden; the saints indeed are not to have their conversation among them as in times past; they are to have no fellowship with them in immoral actions, and superstitious practices; but they may be concerned with them in things civil, with respect to trade and commerce, and the common business of life; on these accounts they may keep company with them; otherwise, as the apostle elsewhere says, they must needs go out of the world. But then it is incumbent upon them to behave wisely towards them, with the simplicity of the dove to join the wisdom of the serpent; they should walk inoffensively towards them, and do nothing to provoke them, to injure and persecute them, but take all prudent methods to gain their affections, escape their resentment and wrath, and obtain their liberty of worshipping God without disturbance; they should give to all their due, tribute, custom, fear, and honour, to whom they are due, and owe no man anything but love; they should submit to every ordinance of men and be subject to the higher powers, not only to escape wrath, but for conscience sake, and should give to Caesar the things that are Caesar's; they should pray for kings, and all in authority; for the prosperity of the nation, city, and place where they are, for their carnal relations and neighbours, and even their very entities, and do them all the good, both for soul and body, that lies in their power, and as they have opportunity; and by so doing, they will heap up coals of fire on their heads. Such a prudent walk, and wise conduct, is necessary on account of the Gospel, that the public ministration of it may be continued, that it may spread and get ground, and that it may not be reproached and blasphemed; and on the account of them that are without, that they may not have any stumblingblocks laid in their way, and they be hardened in their impiety and irreligion, and be more set against the truths of the Gospel; and also on account of believers themselves, who ought so to converse with the men of the world, that they are not partakers with them in their sins, and have their manners corrupted by them, or the vital heat of religion damped, and they become dead, lifeless, lukewarm, and indifferent to divine things, which is often the case through an indiscreet and imprudent walk with such men: the apostle adds, redeeming the time; as an instance of prudent walking towards them that are without; See Gill on Eph 5:16.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts them further to a prudent and decent conduct towards all those with whom they conversed, towards the heathen world, or those out of the Christian church among whom they lived (Col 4:5): Walk in wisdom towards those who are without. Be careful, in all your converse with them, to get no hurt by them, or contract any of their customs; for evil communications corrupt good manners; and to do not hurt to them, or increase their prejudices against religion, and give them an occasion of dislike. Yea, do them all the good you can, and by all the fittest means and in the proper seasons recommend religion to them. - Redeeming the time; that is, either "improving every opportunity of doing them good, and making the best use of your time in proper duty" (diligence in redeeming time very much recommends religion to the good opinion of others), or else "walking cautiously and with circumspections, to give them no advantage against you, nor expose yourselves to their malice and ill-will," Eph 5:15, Eph 5:16. Walk circumspectly, redeeming the time, because the days are evil, that is, dangerous, or times of trouble and suffering. And towards others, or those who are within as well as those who are without, "Let your speech be always with grace, Col 4:6. Let all your discourse be as becomes Christians, suitable to your profession - savoury, discreet, seasonable." Though it be not always of grace, it must be always with grace; and, though the matter of our discourse be that which is common, yet there must be an air of piety upon it and it must be in a Christian manner seasoned with salt. Grace is the salt which seasons our discourse, makes it savoury, and keeps it from corrupting. That you may know how to answer every man. One answer is proper for one man, and another for another man Pro 26:4, Pro 26:5. We have need of a great deal of wisdom and grace to give proper answers to every man, particularly in answering the questions and objections of adversaries against our religion, giving the reasons of our faith, and showing the unreasonableness of their exceptions and cavils to the best advantage for our cause and least prejudice to ourselves. Be ready always to give an answer to every man who asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear, Pe1 3:15.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:5 make the most of every opportunity (literally buy up the time): Like people who are buying up a product offered at a good price, Christians are to “buy up” every opportunity God gives them to share the Good News and to serve others.