Verse
Context
Serving with Honor
5Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ.6And do this not only to please them while they are watching, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.7Serve with good will, as to the Lord and not to men,
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Not with eye-service - Not merely in their presence, when their eye is upon you, as unfaithful and hypocritical servants do, without consulting conscience in any part of their work. Doing the will of God - Seeing that you are in the state of servitude, it is the will of God that you should act conscientiously in it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Col 3:22). Seeking to please their masters only so long as these have their eyes on them: as Gehazi was a very different man in his master's presence from what he was in his absence (2Ki. 5:1-18). men-pleasers--not Christ-pleasers (compare Gal 1:10; Th1 2:4). doing the will of God--the unseen but ever present Master: the best guarantee for your serving faithfully your earthly master alike when present and when absent. from the heart--literally, soul (Psa 111:1; Rom 13:5).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers,.... Doing nothing but when under the master's eye, and then pretending a great deal of diligence and industry, in order to ingratiate themselves into his affections, and neglecting his business when he is absent; whereas they ought to attend his service in his absence, as well as in his presence, and so seek to please him, which is commendable. But as the servants of Christ; acting in like manner as the servants of Christ, who are not menpleasers; or as if they themselves were serving Christ, as indeed they are, when they are doing that which is the will of Christ: doing the will of God from the heart; meaning not the will of God in a religious, but in a civil sense, yielding a cheerful and hearty obedience to their own masters.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:6-7 As slaves of Christ: As those who have been bought by the blood of Christ, believers no longer belong to themselves (see 1 Cor 6:19-20; 7:22; cp. Rom 1:1; Gal 1:10; Phil 1:1). For Christian slaves, the will of God is that they honor him by serving their human masters faithfully and with enthusiasm.
Serving with Honor
5Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ.6And do this not only to please them while they are watching, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.7Serve with good will, as to the Lord and not to men,
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Finding the Will of God
By Carter Conlon88245:35PSA 139:23DAN 11:32MAL 3:6MAT 6:10MRK 9:24JHN 7:17EPH 6:61TH 4:31TH 5:181PE 2:15This sermon focuses on the importance of finding and walking in the will of God. It emphasizes the distinction between the revealed will of God, which is clear and practical, and the unique will of God, which may be specific to each individual. The speaker encourages the audience to have a heart willing to obey God's revealed will and be open to His unique calling, even if it takes them out of their comfort zone. The message underscores the significance of doing good, speaking truth, and living a life that glorifies God in all aspects.
The Power of Obedience
By Basilea Schlink76404:35Radio ShowMAT 16:24JHN 4:34ROM 12:2EPH 6:6JAS 1:221PE 2:181JN 2:17In this sermon transcript, Basilia Schlink discusses the power of obedience in our lives. She acknowledges that obedience is often seen as unpopular, especially among young people who strive for independence. However, she emphasizes that obedience to God's will is the way to experience joy and glory. Jesus' life serves as an example of loving, trusting, and complete surrender to the will of God. Schlink encourages listeners to follow Jesus' example and surrender to God's will, even in difficult circumstances, as this will bring strength and fulfillment to their lives.
Listen Carefully, My Child
By St. Benedict of Nursia1PRO 4:20EPH 6:6COL 3:23HEB 12:281PE 1:14St. Benedict of Nursia preaches about the importance of obedience to God, emphasizing the need to listen to God's precepts with an open heart and willingly carry out His advice. He encourages believers to renounce their own will and take up the weapons of obedience to serve under the Lord Christ. St. Benedict stresses the significance of earnest prayer in perfecting good works, ensuring that God is not grieved by our actions, and highlights the need to serve God faithfully to avoid His displeasure and eternal punishment.
Epistle 277
By George Fox0MAT 18:20LUK 1:33JHN 8:44JHN 17:3ACT 4:12GAL 4:28EPH 3:21EPH 6:6COL 3:21TI 4:12TIT 2:7HEB 1:14HEB 3:1JAS 3:171PE 2:6George Fox preaches about the importance of living out the truth of God in our daily lives, emphasizing the need to bring our families along to worship and guide them in the wisdom and understanding of God. He urges believers to be diligent in serving the Lord and to set their minds on heavenly things, so that they may be heirs of salvation and children of the promise. Fox encourages families to be good examples to one another, glorifying God in all aspects of their lives.
Thy Will Be Done
By Charles Finney0Divine WillMoral ResponsibilityPSA 40:8MAT 6:10ROM 12:2GAL 5:13EPH 6:6PHP 2:13COL 3:23JAS 4:171PE 2:151JN 5:14Charles Finney emphasizes the profound implications of the prayer 'Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven,' exploring the relationship between human will, moral responsibility, and divine law. He argues that true religion requires a state of will that aligns with God's will, which is characterized by universal benevolence. Finney critiques both old and new theological schools for their inconsistent views on free will and moral obligation, asserting that genuine obedience to God's law is rooted in a sincere desire to do His will. He concludes that nothing short of a heart fully devoted to God can truly offer this prayer, highlighting the necessity of a transformative change in one's will to achieve true holiness.
In the Midst of the Assembly
By H.J. Vine0JHN 17:22ROM 8:29EPH 6:6HEB 1:2HEB 2:12H.J. Vine preaches about the profound honor bestowed upon men, fallen and sinful, now saved and sanctified by Jesus Christ for the service of God. The assembly, composed of His companions, brethren, and joint heirs, is brought into oneness of heirship and a new creation through Christ's redeeming love. The inheritance of Christ's assembly is eternal, incorruptible, undefiled, and unfading, contrasting with Israel's earthly inheritance. The assembly, as co-heirs and brethren of Christ, experiences the highest note of singing in the midst of His praises, declaring the Father's name and enjoying the endless blessedness of a new heavenly relationship.
De Wereld Veranderen (Dutch)
By Anton Bosch0JHN 17:16ROM 13:1EPH 6:6Anton Bosch preaches about the desire for a just and righteous society where God's commandments are respected, exploring the challenge of transforming the current world into this ideal world. He delves into the distinction between 'the world' and 'the church,' emphasizing that a Christian nation can only exist if its people, government, and laws are truly born-again Christians reflecting biblical principles. Drawing examples from history, including Calvin's attempt in Geneva, he highlights that true change comes from transformed hearts through rebirth, not merely through enforcing laws.
Christ's Meat the Will of God.
By Watchman Nee0Divine CooperationDoing God's WillPSA 40:8MAT 8:3JHN 4:34ROM 12:2EPH 6:6PHP 2:13COL 3:231TH 5:16HEB 10:7JAS 4:15Watchman Nee emphasizes the importance of aligning our will with God's will, as demonstrated by Christ's commitment to fulfilling the Father's purpose. He illustrates that true sustenance comes from actively doing God's will rather than merely discussing it, highlighting that our will must be set to cooperate with God's. Nee encourages believers to continually ask, 'What is God's will?' instead of focusing on personal desires, asserting that this alignment empowers us to act in faith and authority against spiritual opposition. The sermon underscores that our active choice to do God's will is essential for experiencing His divine plan in our lives.
His Will in Your Surroundings
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 55:22MAT 11:28EPH 6:6COL 3:31PE 5:7Mary Wilder Tileston, through the words of Harriet McEwen Kimball and Handley C. G. Moule, emphasizes the importance of being bond-servants of Christ and doing the will of God from the heart. She encourages believers to turn away from worldly distractions and find true peace, rest, and release from sin in Jesus. Tileston challenges listeners to consider if they are allowing God to enable them to live out His will in their daily lives, even in challenging and painful circumstances, reminding them that every pain is met with God's sympathy and that a life hidden with Christ in God can be full of love, peace, and blessing.
A Faith of Practical Action
By Phillips Brooks0MAT 7:24EPH 6:6JAS 1:22JAS 2:261JN 3:18Phillips Brooks emphasizes the importance of living out one's faith in obedience to God's will, rather than just holding theoretical beliefs. He contrasts the believer who merely learns doctrines with the believer who actively lives by them, highlighting that true faith is demonstrated through obedience and practical application in daily life. Brooks illustrates that abstract truths, if not put into action, are easily changed, while convictions of practical duty shape and define one's entire existence.
The Fallacy of "Secret Sin"
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 10:28LUK 12:22ACT 2:27ROM 8:10EPH 6:61TH 5:232TI 4:22HEB 4:12HEB 6:191PE 2:11The preacher delves into the multifaceted meanings of the Greek word 'psuche' (soul), emphasizing that its interpretation is context-dependent and can vary based on whether one is a dichotomist or trichotomist. 'Psuche' can refer to the principle of life, earthly existence, or the inner nonmaterial life of man encompassing thoughts, feelings, and desires. The sermon explores how 'psuche' is distinct from 'pneuma' (spirit) and its significance in understanding personal existence, emotions, and spiritual growth.
Diary - Back at Home - 1723
By Jonathan Edwards0PSA 119:20PSA 139:23PRO 22:1ROM 8:26EPH 6:6PHP 4:61TH 5:16JAS 1:2JAS 3:21PE 2:18Jonathan Edwards preaches about the journey of self-reflection, repentance, and striving for holiness in various states of life. He emphasizes the importance of withdrawing worldly desires and fixing one's focus on heavenly joy and love. Edwards reflects on his struggles with temperament, conversation, and the need for vital Christianity to transform his flaws. He encourages continuous self-examination, prayer, and seeking God's mercy and guidance in all aspects of life.
Sin in the Flesh
By Harmon A. Baldwin0JER 17:9MAT 15:19ROM 8:8EPH 6:6COL 3:2HEB 11:5JAS 3:14Harmon A. Baldwin delves into the misconception that sin lies in the flesh, akin to the old Manichaean heresy, emphasizing that the physical body itself is not sinful but rather the heart where sin resides, influencing our choices and affections. He clarifies that sin enters when the soul succumbs to fleshly desires, leading to bondage and a worldly mindset. Baldwin highlights the importance of faith in pleasing God, as stated in Hebrews 11:6, and the presence of the Spirit within believers, as mentioned in Romans 8:9, guiding them away from minding the flesh and towards spiritual growth.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Not with eye-service - Not merely in their presence, when their eye is upon you, as unfaithful and hypocritical servants do, without consulting conscience in any part of their work. Doing the will of God - Seeing that you are in the state of servitude, it is the will of God that you should act conscientiously in it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Col 3:22). Seeking to please their masters only so long as these have their eyes on them: as Gehazi was a very different man in his master's presence from what he was in his absence (2Ki. 5:1-18). men-pleasers--not Christ-pleasers (compare Gal 1:10; Th1 2:4). doing the will of God--the unseen but ever present Master: the best guarantee for your serving faithfully your earthly master alike when present and when absent. from the heart--literally, soul (Psa 111:1; Rom 13:5).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers,.... Doing nothing but when under the master's eye, and then pretending a great deal of diligence and industry, in order to ingratiate themselves into his affections, and neglecting his business when he is absent; whereas they ought to attend his service in his absence, as well as in his presence, and so seek to please him, which is commendable. But as the servants of Christ; acting in like manner as the servants of Christ, who are not menpleasers; or as if they themselves were serving Christ, as indeed they are, when they are doing that which is the will of Christ: doing the will of God from the heart; meaning not the will of God in a religious, but in a civil sense, yielding a cheerful and hearty obedience to their own masters.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:6-7 As slaves of Christ: As those who have been bought by the blood of Christ, believers no longer belong to themselves (see 1 Cor 6:19-20; 7:22; cp. Rom 1:1; Gal 1:10; Phil 1:1). For Christian slaves, the will of God is that they honor him by serving their human masters faithfully and with enthusiasm.