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Colossians 3

Hendriksen
‹ Chapter 2 Colossians — All Chapters Chapter 4 ›

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 14 2 8 0 0 CHAPTER III) Outline of Chapter 3:1 17) Theme: Christ, the Pre-eminent One, the Only and All-Sufficient Savior) II. This Only and All-Sufficient Savior is the Source of the Believers Life, and Thus the Real Answer to the Perils by Which They Are Confronted, chapters 3 and 4) A. This Truth Applied to All Believers, 3:1 17) 3:1 4 1. Believers should be consistent. They should live in conformity with the fact that they were raised with Christ, who is their life) 3:5 11 2. Therefore, they should put to death and lay aside the old vices; and) 3:12 17 3.

They should put on the new virtues) ) 3:1 4) I. Believers Should Be Consistent) 3 1 If then you were raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 On the things that are above set your minds, not on the things that are upon the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ (who is) our life is manifested, then you also will be manifested with him in glory.) ) 1. Consistency requires that believers live in conformity with the fact that they were raised with Christ, who is not only the Object of their faith (chapters 1 and 2) but also the Source of their life (chapters 3 and 4). Of course, the line between these two divisions is not sharp. There is considerable overlapping. There is, however, a difference in emphasis.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.0|AUTODETECT|” Between ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.0|AUTODETECT|” Colossians 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.0|AUTODETECT|” and that which precedes there is a close connection. The opening words of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.0|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.3.10|AUTODETECT|” , If then you were raised with Christ, resume the thought already expressed in 2:12, 13, raised with him & made alive with him, and are the counterpart of 2:20, If with Christ you died to the rudiments of the world.& The Colossians, it will be recalled, were beset by the danger of relapsing into paganism with its gross sensuality, etc., as is clear from 2:23 and 3:5 ff. The wrong solution of their problem was refuted in chapters 1 and 2, especially the latter. It was indicated that there is no material cure for a spiritual ill, that neglect of the body will never heal the soul s sickness but will aggravate it, that heaven-born individuals cannot gain satisfaction from earth-born remedies. Christ, he alone, is the answer, Christ in all the fulness of his love and power, as already implied in both chapters 1 and 2, and set forth with even greater clarity and directness now (chapter 3), in a series of pastoral exhortations. If, then, the Colossians were corporately raised when Christ was raised and with him, as previously explained (see on 2:12, 13, 20), why should they seek salvation or fulness anywhere apart from him? Why should they resort to broken cisterns when the Fountain is at hand?

Christ s resurrection, followed by his ascension and coronation, guarantees their pardon and provides for their purity. To this Savior they had surrendered themselves when they had embraced him by faith. The cleansing power of Christ s blood and Spirit had been signified and sealed to them in baptism. The supply of grace remains plentiful. Right now they need not wait until the day of the Parousia! they are raised with Christ. They possess within themselves the life of the resurrection.

Let the power of Christ s resurrection, therefore, be experienced by them in an ever increasing degree. Let their union with the exalted Christ transform their entire life: mind, heart, and will 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.33|AUTODETECT|” ). Let them seek the things that are above, where Christ is. The verb seek implies persevering effort; hence, the rendering, Be constantly seeking, is not incorrect. This seeking, moreover, is more than a seeking to discover. It is a seeking to obtain 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.33|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.45|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.45|AUTODETECT|” 13:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.7|AUTODETECT|” ). The emphasis, though, is not on the seeking but on the object sought. A precise rendering would be, the things that are above [placed forward for emphasis] be constantly seeking. Seeking to obtain is a common activity, but seeking to obtain the right treasures is not nearly so common, and therefore requires emphasis. These things that are above are the spiritual values embedded in the heart of the exalted Mediator in glory, whence, without loss to himself, they are bestowed upon those who humbly ask for them and diligently seek them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.7|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 7:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.12.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.12.11|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 12:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.7|AUTODETECT|” 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). As the context indicates, the apostle has reference to such realities as tenderheartedness, kindness, lowliness, meekness, longsuffering, patience, the forgiving spirit, and above all love (3:12 ff.). Surely, if the hearts of believers are filled with such bounties there will be no room for fleshly indulgence. Here, then, is the true solution.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.110.1|AUTODETECT|” The Colossians can be assured of the fact that their exalted Christ has both the right and the power to bestow whatever gifts are needed, for he is seated at the right hand of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.110.1|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 110:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.41-40.22.46|AUTODETECT|” , a phrase applied by Christ to himself in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.22.41-40.22.46|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 22:41 46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.64|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.64|AUTODETECT|” 26:64) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.35-41.12.37|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.35-41.12.37|AUTODETECT|” Mark 12:35 37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.61|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.61|AUTODETECT|” 14:61) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.62|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.62|AUTODETECT|” 62) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.41-42.20.44|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.41-42.20.44|AUTODETECT|” Luke 20:41 44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.66-42.22.70|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.66-42.22.70|AUTODETECT|” 22:66 70) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), clothed with majesty and honor.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.8.0|AUTODETECT|” This comforting truth of the ascension of the Lord and his coronation at the Father s right hand, as a Fountain of blessing for his people, was foreshadowed in the Old Testament 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.8.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.1-58.2.8|AUTODETECT|” , as interpreted in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.1-58.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 2:1 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.68.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.68.18|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 68:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.7|AUTODETECT|” , as explained in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.7|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.110.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.110.1|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 110:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” , as has been shown; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.1-43.14.4|AUTODETECT|” ). It was frequently referred to by the Lord himself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.1-43.14.4|AUTODETECT|” John 14:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.13-43.14.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.13-43.14.18|AUTODETECT|” 14:13 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.7|AUTODETECT|” 16:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.5|AUTODETECT|” 17:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.17|AUTODETECT|” 20:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.50-42.24.53|AUTODETECT|” ). It was from the very beginning one of the basic themes in the preaching of the church 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.50-42.24.53|AUTODETECT|” Luke 24:50 53) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.6-44.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.6-44.1.11|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:6 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.33-44.2.36|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.33-44.2.36|AUTODETECT|” 2:33 36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.21|AUTODETECT|” 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.30|AUTODETECT|” 5:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.31|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.31|AUTODETECT|” 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.56|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.56|AUTODETECT|” 7:56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32-45.8.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32-45.8.34|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:32 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.20-49.1.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.20-49.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:20 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.7|AUTODETECT|” 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.9-50.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.9-50.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:9 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” 3:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.1-58.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.1-58.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 1:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.1-58.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.1-58.2.8|AUTODETECT|” 2:1 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.14-58.4.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.14-58.4.16|AUTODETECT|” 4:14 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.8.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.8.1|AUTODETECT|” 8:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.8.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.8.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.11|AUTODETECT|” 9:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.12|AUTODETECT|” 10:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.21|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.12-66.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.12-66.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 1:12 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.5-66.12.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.12.5-66.12.12|AUTODETECT|” 12:5 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.13|AUTODETECT|” Those that seek to obtain these things that are above are not chasing phantoms but are gathering priceless treasures. They are not the kind of people who forget about their duty in the here and now. On the contrary, they are very practical, for the graces that have been enumerated enable them not only to gain victory upon victory in their struggle against fleshly indulgence but also to be truthfully the salt of the earth and the light of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.5.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 2. In similar vein Paul continues, On the things that are above set your minds, not on the things that are upon the earth.��112�� This admonition is very practical. It means that the Colossians are urged to ponder and yearn for��113�� the things that are above, as previously defined. Now a minister who seeks to help his people in their struggle against immorality should not preach a series of sermons on the theme Immorality, going into all its sordid details. If he does, his sermons might do more harm than good. Instead of banishing the evil he may be creating a taste for it.

Let him, instead, preach one sermon on Immorality but an entire series on The Glory of Service Rendered to Christ and His People.) This positive method of overcoming sin is characteristic of Paul s teaching. Note the following:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Overcome evil with good 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 );) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.14|AUTODETECT|” Put on the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for the flesh 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.14|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 );) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.16|AUTODETECT|” Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.16|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); and) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.8|AUTODETECT|” For the rest, brothers, whatsoever things are true & honorable & just & pure & lovely & of good report & be thinking about these things & and the God of peace will be with you 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.12-51.3.17|AUTODETECT|” The same truth is illustrated in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.12-51.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:12 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . This is the only effective way to put to death the members that are upon the earth (3:5 9a), as is also clear from 3:9a, 10.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.29|AUTODETECT|” 3. Accordingly, the apostle continues, For you died, and your life is hid with Christ in God. In the sense already explained (see on 2:11, 12) the Colossians are dead and buried. It is no longer they that live but Christ that lives in them. They are dead to their old selves and to the world governed by sin. Their life is bound up in the bundle of the living with their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.29|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 25:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ). From eternity they were comprehended in him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.12|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.5|AUTODETECT|” ). In time they were from God s side ingrafted in Christ by the Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.5|AUTODETECT|” John 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.5|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.16|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.22|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.20|AUTODETECT|” ), and as a result were from their side united to Christ by a living faith 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.20|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ). Their new life is hid with Christ. It is concealed to the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.14|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.2|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ), and is indestructible, everlasting 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” 10:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.31-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.31-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:31 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ). And since, as to essence, Christ is in the Father, and the Father is in Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.18|AUTODETECT|” John 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.30|AUTODETECT|” 10:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.21|AUTODETECT|” 17:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.23|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 3:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.15|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), it is evident that Paul is fully justified in saying Your life is hid with Christ in God. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 4. Though the world will never be able to see the closeness of the inner relationship between believers and their Lord, the outward expression of this inner relationship, the glory, will one day become clear to all: When Christ (who is) our��114�� life is manifested, then you also will be manifested with him in glory. Christ (who is) our life. This cannot mean identity. To say that our life is the extension of Christ s life is ambiguous. Christ and we are not the same in essence, as are the Father and the Son.

The life of Christ hence, Christ himself is, however, the Source and Pattern of our life. Moreover, through the Holy Spirit and Spirit-given faith, Christ is most closely united with us, and we with him. The expression Christ, our life must, therefore, be explained in the light of similar ones such as the following:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.19|AUTODETECT|” Because I live you too will live 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.19|AUTODETECT|” John 14:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 );) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.10|AUTODETECT|” (We are) always bearing about in the body the dying of Jesus, that the life also of Jesus may be manifested in our body 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.10|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 );) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.15|AUTODETECT|” It was the good pleasure of God & to reveal his Son in me 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.15|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 );) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.20|AUTODETECT|” Christ lives in me 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.20|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 );) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.19|AUTODETECT|” My little children, with whom I am again in labor, until Christ be formed in you 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 );) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.18|AUTODETECT|” But we all & are transformed into the same image from glory to glory as from the Lord the Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.18|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); and) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.21|AUTODETECT|” For to me to live (is) Christ, and to die (is) gain 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.36|AUTODETECT|” When, on the day of his second coming, a day known only to God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.36|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” ), Christ, our life, is manifested,��115�� his attributes of majesty and power being publicly displayed, then the Colossians too will be manifested with him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.27|AUTODETECT|” ). Their public vindication and glory until coincide with his. Among the many New Testament passages 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.27|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.31-40.25.40|AUTODETECT|” ) which shed further light on the meaning of this glory which God s children will share with their Lord in the day when they will be like him and will bear the image of the heavenly are especially the following: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.31-40.25.40|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:31 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.7|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.19|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.13|AUTODETECT|” 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.13-52.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.13-52.4.18|AUTODETECT|” 4:13 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.10|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.13|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.28|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.2|AUTODETECT|” 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.17.14|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.17.14|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 17:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 5 2 8 0 0 ) 3:5 11) II. Therefore, They Should Put to death and Lay Aside the Old Vices) 5 Put to death therefore your members that (are) upon the earth: immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which is idolatry; 6 on account of which things the wrath of God is coming; 7 in which things you also walked at one time, when you were living in them. 8 But now you, too, lay them all aside: wrath, anger, malice, slander, shameful language from your mouth. 9 No longer lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old man with his practices, 10 and have put on the new man, who is being renewed for full knowledge according to the image of him who created him, 11 where there cannot be Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave, freeman, but Christ (is) all and in all.) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=51.2.11-51.2.13|AUTODETECT|” 5. In close connection with the immediately preceding paragraph Paul continues, Put to death therefore your��116�� members that (are) upon the earth. Note the paradox, You died (verse 3) & Put to death therefore your members & (verse 5). A superficial judgment would be that the apostle is here contradicting himself. Some interpreters have, in fact, reached that very conclusion. It is as if on the one hand Paul is saying that the Colossians have already died, yet on the other hand is telling them that they must put themselves to death.

How can both be true? The answer is that as long as believers are still living on earth their condition and their state do not wholly coincide. As to their state they are even now perfect, without any sin, wholly justified! Their old self is dead and buried 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.11-51.2.13|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:11 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.18|AUTODETECT|” ). Now it is true that their condition is in harmony with this, but only in principle. In the words of the Heidelberg Catechism, Even the holiest men, while in this life, have only a small beginning of this obedience [that is, of obedience to God s commandments]; yet so that with earnest purpose they begin to live, not only according to some but according to all the commandments of God (Lord s Day XLIV, Answer to Question 114). This progressive character of sanctification is also clearly taught by Paul 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.18|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.12|AUTODETECT|” 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.84.7|AUTODETECT|” ) and is in harmony with the rest of Scripture 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.84.7|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 84:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.24|AUTODETECT|” Mark 9:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.8-62.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; also implied in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.8-62.1.10|AUTODETECT|” I John 1:8 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ). While with respect to the new life which was imparted to them by the Holy Spirit believers are so closely united with Christ that they are said to be with him in heaven 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), yet the old life is still of the earth as well as on earth. But there is no reason for despair. The very presence of the new life, the life in Christ, enables believers progressively to put to death��117�� the members that are upon the earth.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.3.16|AUTODETECT|” When the question is asked what is meant by the members that must be put to death the answer is: immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which is idolatry. But how can members be vices? Some expositors regard this to be impossible. They suggest various solutions.��118�� Yet it would seem to me that the difficulty is not nearly as great as some would make it appear to be. John Calvin may be on the right track when he states that these vices are called members since they adhere so closely to us. Another very similar way of solving the difficulty, a way which does not imply a rejection of Calvin s view but is clearly in line with it, would be to regard the use of the word members (= vices) to be an instance of the figure of speech called metonymy , in which, for example, the name of the cause or source is substituted for the effect it produces, the consequences that flow forth from it, the fruit or product it yields. Thus in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Num. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.23|AUTODETECT|” (in the original) the word mouth is in the Hebrew substituted for the word command that issued from the mouth; or just as in American slang the expression, I ll have none of your lip means, I will not tolerate any saucy remarks that issue from your lips. So here also the command, Put to death therefore your members that (are) upon the earth: immorality, impurity, etc., means, Put to death therefore the effects produced by, and associated so closely with, the members of your body, such effects, products or works, as immorality, impurity, etc. I am therefore in agreement with Bruce (op. cit., p. 268) when he says, In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.23|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Paul speaks of the law of sin which is in my members ; here [in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.13|AUTODETECT|” ] he goes farther and practically identifies the readers members with the sins of which they were formerly the instruments. But what he is really thinking of is the practices and attitudes to which his readers bodily activity and strength had been devoted in the old life. Thus also Ridderbos (op. cit., p. 207) states, The `members are here identified with the sins committed by these members, which in a similar connection in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.13|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 are called the deeds of the body. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.18-45.1.32|AUTODETECT|” Lists of vices are of frequent occurrence in ancient literature, both pagan (moralistic) and anti-pagan. The recently discovered Dead Sea Scrolls also have such lists.��119�� In the letters of Paul they occur in the following passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.18-45.1.32|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:18 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.9-46.5.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.9-46.5.11|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 5:9 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.9|AUTODETECT|” 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.19-48.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.19-48.5.21|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:19 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.3-49.5.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.3-49.5.6|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:3 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.3-52.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.3-52.4.7|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:3 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.9|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.2-55.3.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.2-55.3.5|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:2 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Titus 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The difference between the Christian and the non-Christian treatment of these vices is that apart from Christ and the fullness of grace imparted by his Spirit there is no power in all the universe to overcome them. Christ, he alone, supplies that power.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 As to arrangement, it is rather obvious that verse 5 lists five vices, and so does verse 8. However, whether there is any significance in this number five as here used is questionable, and if any special meaning attaches to it we must confess that we do not know what it is.��120�� It is true, nevertheless, that the first list enumerates vices that describe the sinner as he is in himself, while the second characterizes him in his relation to the neighbor. It is also possible to see in the first list a movement from the surface of life to its center, and in the second the reverse. This will become evident as the various items are studied one by one.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Of the five vices mentioned here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.3-52.4.7|AUTODETECT|” the first four are also listed in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.3-52.4.7|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:3 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.24-45.1.29|AUTODETECT|” , the last four also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.24-45.1.29|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:24 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.3|AUTODETECT|” . The first is immorality 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.3|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.32|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.32|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.19|AUTODETECT|” 15:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.9|AUTODETECT|” 19:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.41|AUTODETECT|” John 8:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , etc.). Though referring basically to unlawful sexual intercourse, it probably includes illicit, clandestine relationships of every description. The emphasis, however, is on evil in the sexual realm, particularly evil deeds.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.24|AUTODETECT|” These evil deeds spring from evil thoughts, that is, from uncleanness, which is mentioned next 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.7|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.19|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 15:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.7.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.7.21|AUTODETECT|” Mark 7:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.12|AUTODETECT|” , etc.). It is not necessary, however, to limit uncleanness to that which is filthy in thoughts. The intents of the heart are undoubtedly also included 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.26|AUTODETECT|” That it is the evil disposition of the heart and will of man which is the source of his wicked thoughts and deeds is clear from the two vices that are mentioned next, namely, passion and evil desire. It is not easy to distinguish between these, though there may be some merit in Lightfoot s suggestion that the former describes this vice more from its passive, the latter more from its active side. For passion see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.26|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.5|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.24|AUTODETECT|” , etc.; for evil desire, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.5|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.7|AUTODETECT|” , etc. The word evil is added because desire as such is not necessarily wrong. The word used in the original may also refer to legitimate desire, for example, Christ s desire to eat the Passover with his disciples.��121�� But evil desire is the inordinate craving for sexual satisfaction, or for other things, such as idol-worship, material possessions, renown, etc. The emphasis, in the present context, is, however, on illicit sex relationships, but not to the exclusion of other wicked yearnings. Out of this evil craving arise all kinds of sins. It is therefore basic, and is so regarded by Paul himself in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.7|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.20.17|AUTODETECT|” . In this connection it is also interesting to note that in the Decalogue the sin of coveting is mentioned last 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.20.17|AUTODETECT|” Ex. 20:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.28|AUTODETECT|” ), as being the source of all the others, and that Jesus, too, considers the lustful heart, that is, the heart filled with evil desire, to be the root whence springs the evil deed, for he says, Every one who looks on a woman to lust for her has already in his heart committed adultery with her 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.29|AUTODETECT|” But though by mentioning passion and evil desire the apostle has, as it were, reached the very bottom of every sin, he adds one more vice, one in which all the others are summarized, namely, self-seeking or greed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.29|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1-51.3.3|AUTODETECT|” , etc.). Every sin is basically selfishness, the worship of self instead of the worship of God, the substitution of self for Christ, in one s affections 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1-51.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.5|AUTODETECT|” ). It is for this very reason that Paul adds, which is idolatry 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.5|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The young man who gets a girl in trouble may call this love. He is mistaken. It is self-seeking, greed, at least to a considerable extent. This young man wants to have more than his due. He is overreaching, going beyond what is proper (see N.T.C. on I and II Thessalonians, pp. 100, 101). However, the apostle is not thinking particularly about a young man but rather about the old man, (see 3:9) that is, the carnal nature of any man, regardless of age, the nature of man as it is apart from saving grace.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.21|AUTODETECT|” 6, 7. Having listed the vices which formerly characterized the Colossians and by which they are still being tempted, the apostle continues, on account of which the wrath of God is coming.��122�� By means of what is sometimes called a prophetic present tense 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.21|AUTODETECT|” John 4:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.3|AUTODETECT|” 14:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.5-45.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ) Paul stresses the fact that the coming of the wrath of God, to be visited upon those who live in such sins, is so certain that it is as if that wrath had already arrived. These sins attract God s displeasure like a magnet attracts iron or like a high steeple on an isolated hill draws lightning. The reference, no doubt, is to the revelation of God s wrath in the coming judgment day 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.5-45.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:5 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.6|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.8-53.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.8-53.1.10|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:8 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Calvin very appropriately observes that the real purpose of this prophecy about the inevitability of God s wrath being visited upon confirmed evildoers is that we may be deterred from sinning. Accordingly, even such a wrath-statement is filled with mercy!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.25|AUTODETECT|” By God s sovereign grace, however, the Colossians have, in principle, renounced this kind of conduct. For them it belongs to the past. Says Paul, in which things you also walked at one time, when you were living in them. Note, you also, that is, you, like other heathen. Living and walking are almost identical. Nevertheless, in certain contexts, as here, there is a difference. Walking here indicates behavior; living, disposition. Thus also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.25|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.17|AUTODETECT|” , If we live by the Spirit, by the Spirit let us also walk. The Colossians having become new creatures, are no longer absorbed in these vices of former days. They have become ashamed of their earlier ways. By the power of the Holy Spirit they have been sanctified, cleansed. Their life is hid with Christ in God (see above, verse 3). Nevertheless, as pointed out previously, this does not mean that even now the victory has been fully won. The flesh is still lusting against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.17|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.15-45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.15-45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:15 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Hence, the command which follows in verses 8, 9a is very much to the point:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.7|AUTODETECT|” 8, 9a. But now you, too, lay them all aside: wrath, anger, malice, slander, shameful language out of your mouth. No longer lie to one another. The former vices had not only wrought destruction in the lives of men as individuals, viewed separately (see on verse 5 above), but had also disrupted the relationship between neighbors. This must not continue. Accordingly, wrath (Latin: ira), that is, settled indignation, when the heart is like a roaring furnace; anger or fury (Latin: furor), the tumultuous outburst, like fire in straw;��123�� malice, not merely mischief but the evil inclination of the mind, the perversity of disposition which bodes ill for man s fellow-man; slander or reviling;��124�� and shameful language out of your mouth, that is, abusive speech, all of these must be laid aside.

Note here the progress in vice, from wrath inside the heart, through various stages, to the bitter outward manifestations: slander and abusive language. Lying, too, must be discarded 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.7|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It must no longer be in evidence in the lives of believers. All manner of hypocrisy and deception has always marked the heathen world. That is true even today. A missionary told us that in answer to his question why a certain enquirer had failed to keep her promise to attend a midweek meeting, the woman answered, I m very sorry that I was unable to attend, but, you see, I had to go to the funeral of my mother-in-law in a distant city. Afterward the missionary discovered that the mother-in-law in question had died years ago and that the woman who had invented the excuse had not even been out of the village on the day of the midweek meeting. He added, They will tell you anything that occurs to their minds just to save face. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.58|AUTODETECT|” Lay aside all these vices, says Paul, just as one discards a worn-out garment or one that no longer fits the person who has been clothed with it. For literal use of the expression Lay aside in connection with robes see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.58|AUTODETECT|” Acts 7:58) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.29.14|AUTODETECT|” . The apostle, well-versed in the Old Testament, knew that the figure of a garment was frequently used in the sacred scriptures to indicate character. Sometimes it referred to God-glorifying character, consisting of the fruits of grace, such as righteousness, justice, joy, faithfulness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.29.14|AUTODETECT|” Job 29:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.132.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.132.9|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 132:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.5|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 11:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.10|AUTODETECT|” 61:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.6|AUTODETECT|” ); sometimes to evil character: pride, violence 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.6|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 73:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.35.26|AUTODETECT|” ); or to the latters s result: shame and dishonor 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.35.26|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 35:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.109.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.109.29|AUTODETECT|” 109:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.59.17|AUTODETECT|” ). The garment of righteousness and salvation is ascribed to Jehovah himself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.59.17|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 59:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.1|AUTODETECT|” ). It is therefore understandable that Paul makes use of this figurative manner of speaking 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.1|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.21|AUTODETECT|” James 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.1|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.12|AUTODETECT|” ). It is clearly implied in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.12|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.14|AUTODETECT|” a, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.27|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.22|AUTODETECT|” , did put on Christ ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.12|AUTODETECT|” . With a slight modification of the figure the apostle sometimes speaks of the Christian s duty to put on his spiritual armor 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.12|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.7|AUTODETECT|” b; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.7|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.13-49.6.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.13-49.6.18|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:13 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.8|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.8|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 9b 11. When Paul urged the Colossians to lay aside the vices that had marked their previous manner of life he was using consistent reasoning. He was, as it were, saying, Continue to do in practice what you have already done in principle. He says, seeing that you have put off��125�� the old man with his practices, and have put on the new (man).��126��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.6|AUTODETECT|” As has been shown (see on 2:11, 12), when they were baptized the Colossians had decisively renounced put off and cast away the old man 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.6|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.27|AUTODETECT|” ), that is, the body of the flesh, their former manner of existence, their earlier wicked selves, with its practices, the very practices listed in 3:5, 8, 9a, and had put on the new man, Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.27|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.12-45.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ), that is, the new nature which believers have as members of Christ. Hence, let them now adorn their baptismal profession of faith with a godly life. Let them put to death (verse 5) and lay aside (verse 8) all their former vices. Says John Calvin, The old man is whatever we bring from our mother s womb, and whatever we are by nature. It is called the old man because we are first born from Adam, and afterward are born again through Christ. And Thomas Goodwin, There are but two men that are seen standing before God, Adam and Jesus Christ; and these two men have all other men hanging at their girdles. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.12-45.5.21|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:12 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.22|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.45-46.15.49|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.45-46.15.49|AUTODETECT|” 45 49) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.15|AUTODETECT|” It should be stressed that it is only in Christ (by means of vital union with him) that this new man is formed in the believer; also that, because of this very fact, all those who have become new men, whether Jews or Gentiles, can also be called, in their corporate existence, one new man in him, as it is expressed in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.15|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.28|AUTODETECT|” , that he might create in himself of the two one new man. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.28|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.16|AUTODETECT|” Now in each believer this new man is a progressively developing entity, as Paul indicates by continuing, who is being renewed for full knowledge. In slightly different language an analogous, though not entirely identical, thought is expressed in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.16|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.18|AUTODETECT|” , in the words: Accordingly, we do not lose heart, but (are confident that) though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. From both of these passages it is evident that the believer s new nature resembles a growing plant. It is being constantly renewed by the Holy Spirit and increases in vigor with a definite goal in mind. The fact that the new man is, as it were, an expanding reality and that salvation means progress is clear not only from these passages and from the references given earlier, in the discussion of verse 5 above 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.18|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.10|AUTODETECT|” ), but also from the following, to which many others could be added: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.10|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 9:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.10.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.10.15|AUTODETECT|” 10:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.16|AUTODETECT|” 4:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.10|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.3|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.15|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.1|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.47.3-26.47.6|AUTODETECT|” . When a man is led through the waters of salvation, these are ankle-deep at first, but as he progresses, they become knee-deep, then reach to the loins, and are finally impassable except by swimming 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.47.3-26.47.6|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 47:3 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The same thought occurs in Colossians (1:9, 10; 2:19).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.24|AUTODETECT|” The new man is being renewed for full knowledge 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.24|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.2|AUTODETECT|” adds righteousness and holiness ). This knowledge excels by far any so-called knowledge in which the false teachers who disturbed the churches of the Lycus Valley were glorying 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.2|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ). It pertains to both heart and mind, is experiential, and has God s holy will as its object 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.5|AUTODETECT|” ). A true discernment of that will, particularly with reference to its good pleasure 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.26|AUTODETECT|” ), is very rewarding. It is a means toward a fuller, richer measure of salvation s joy and peace. A contrast will make this clear. While it is true that here on earth a person s experience with his neighbor will at times cause him to say, The better I know him and understand his intentions, the less I trust him, in the kingdom of heaven the very opposite truth prevails, namely, The more we know him that is, the triune God or our Savior Jesus Christ , and his purposes of grace, the more we trust and love him. Paul continues, according to the image of him who created him. The standard or yardstick and the aim of the renewal is God s image, the likeness of the very One who created this new man in the hearts and lives of believers, just as he once created the first Adam as his own image 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.26|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 1:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.27|AUTODETECT|” 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.49|AUTODETECT|” ). Nevertheless, the new man is not simply the restoration of whatever pertained to the first Adam before the fall. (To mention only one point of difference between the original creation and the new creation: in the state of rectitude Adam had no inkling of knowledge concerning God s redemptive love.) Rather, Just as we have borne the image of the earthly one, so we shall also bear the image of the heavenly One 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.49|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), in whom redemptive love is wholly centralized.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Now this glorious progressive transformation into the image of God recognizes no racial-religious, cultural, or social boundaries. Paul continues, where there cannot be Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave, freeman.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.18.33-12.18.35|AUTODETECT|” All racial bigotry, chauvinism, and snobbery is condemned here. Here the truth that before God all men are equal receives its best because infallibly inspired expression. To be sure, by divine illumination there have always been men who have grasped this truth, at least to a degree. Yet, the vast majority among all races have denied it, if not in theory at least in practice. There was, for example, the Assyrian who considered his gods to be mightier than those of any other nation, stronger even than the God of Israel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.18.33-12.18.35|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 18:33 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.7.4|AUTODETECT|” ). There was the Jew who knew no fear because, in distinction from the men of other nations, he had the temple 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.7.4|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 7:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ), and was able to say, We have Abraham as our father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=31.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ). The Edomite considered himself to be superior to other men because he was living in the cleft of the rock 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=31.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Obad. 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). There is also the red man who considers the white man underbaked, the black man burnt, but himself just right, and is sure that the village in which he lives occupies the very center of the earth s surface; the white man who considers himself to be a member of the superior race, is sure that a special curse of God rests on those who belong to the opposite race, and that it is his privilege and duty by means of enslavement to perpetuate this curse; and the Negro who says that not the white man but he himself is superior and should assert this superiority if need be by force. Of course, not every member of any race or class is guilty of this exclusivism and clannishness, but there are many who are. Hindus are by no means the only ones who believe in the caste-system!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.11|AUTODETECT|” In the early days of American history there were men of distinction who regarded the white settlements as representing God s chosen people, destined, because of their extraordinary virtue, to rule the world. There are Germans who put their whole heart into singing, Deutschland, Deutschland �ber alles, and Dutchmen who believe that there exists a special covenant between God, The Netherlands, and the House of Orange. There are fine, evangelical people, brothers and sisters in Christ, who feel certain that even in the present dispensation national distinctions have value before God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.11|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and that the Jews will one day rule over the entire world from Jerusalem. And there are males who believe that superiority is somehow linked with sex, and that Woman is the lesser man. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.4|AUTODETECT|” Now it is not Paul s intention to deny every ethnic, cultural, or social distinction. That there are, indeed, differences is freely admitted, and, in fact, sometimes even emphasized. All members of the human body do not have the same function. Thus it is also with Christ s body, the church 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.12.12-46.12.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.12.12-46.12.31|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 12:12 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ). Let all work together harmoniously. Similarly, not all have had the same opportunities or advantages 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ). Let the specially privileged recognize their added responsibilities 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.12|AUTODETECT|” 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Amos 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.47|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.47|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.48|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.48|AUTODETECT|” 48) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.23|AUTODETECT|” ). In certain respects, therefore, it is by no means true that all men are alike. But in two important points they are, indeed, equal! First of all, all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.23|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.11|AUTODETECT|” 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.9-45.3.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.9-45.3.18|AUTODETECT|” 3:9 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.12|AUTODETECT|” 5:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.11|AUTODETECT|” ). Secondly, the same Lord is Lord of all, and is rich to all that call on him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 10:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.22|AUTODETECT|” ). Those who, by God s sovereign grace, are led to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ are saved regardless of race, culture, or social position 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.22|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.23|AUTODETECT|” b, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.11|AUTODETECT|” 4:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.18|AUTODETECT|” 5:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.32|AUTODETECT|” b; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.32|AUTODETECT|” 11:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.9|AUTODETECT|” 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.27-48.3.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.27-48.3.29|AUTODETECT|” 27 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.11-49.2.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.11-49.2.22|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:11 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.11|AUTODETECT|” Now the present passage 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.11|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ) is not the only one in which the apostle contrasts certain groups. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.28|AUTODETECT|” , and especially ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.3.28|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . But in each letter the particular contrast which he draws is in keeping with the purpose he has in mind for that letter. Thus, in Galatians, in harmony with its background and intent, the distinctions enumerated are racial-religious , social , and sexual . It reminds one of the prayer of thanksgiving uttered by a male Jew who blesses the Lord each morning because he did not make him a Gentile, a slave, or a woman! Paul says that in Christ those distinctions, when they are regarded as marks of preferment by God, are definitely out. In our present passage, the contrasts and the reason for stating them thus and not otherwise are as follows:) 1 3 2 8 0 0 (1) racial-religious: where there cannot be Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision. ��127�� This is stated to counteract the teaching of the ceremonialists (see above, on 2:11 14).) (2) cultural: barbarian, Scythian. Though these two designations both refer to the supposedly uncultured, there is an implied contrast here between the cultured and the uncultured. Knowledge and philosophy are of no help in creating within the heart the new man. Yet, it was on such human attainments that the false teachers who were troubling the Colossian church placed the emphasis. See on 2:4, 8, 18.) (3) social: slave, freeman. It is as if Paul were saying, O Colossians, do not look down on slaves.

Accept Onesimus as your very own, your brother in Christ. As far as standing before God is concerned there is no distinction between bond and free. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.13|AUTODETECT|” Grace bridges all chasms. Though the Greeks divided mankind into two categories, Greeks and barbarians ; and though the Romans, after conquering the Greeks politically but having been conquered by them culturally, drew a similar contrast between Greeks-Romans, on the one hand, and barbarians, on the other; and though the Jews, unconverted to Christ, set Greek over against Jew, grace recognizes no such distinctions, for both Gentile and Jew are reconciled to each other by being reconciled to God through the cross 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.13|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Similarly, since the only circumcision that has any value before God is the circumcision of the heart, it stands to reason that before him the question whether or not one has been literally circumcised or has not been literally circumcised has no meaning. See N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.21|AUTODETECT|” And since the world by its wisdom did not come to know God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.21|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.4|AUTODETECT|” ), the cultural distinction also has no value in a person s standing before God. Academic degrees do not make any one a new man. Refinement in customs and manners, in itself not to be despised, is not saving grace. And, on the other hand, being a barbarian 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.4|AUTODETECT|” Acts 28:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.11|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 14:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 twice), a mere stammerer to the ears of the more sophisticated, cannot, in and by itself, prevent one from becoming a new man, not even if this barbarian happens to be of the reputedly lowest class, namely, a Scythian.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 In the seventh century b.c. these Scythians, savage and warlike nomads from the northern steppes, had deluged the countries of the Fertile Crescent, including Palestine, and, having subsequently been repulsed, had left a memory of dread and horror.��128�� The account of Herodotus with reference to them is as follows (in part):) They invaded Asia, after they had driven the Cimmerians out of Europe & and made themselves masters of all Asia. From there they marched against Egypt; and when they were in that part of Syria which is called Palestine, Psammetichus, king of Egypt, met them and with gifts and prayer persuaded them to come no farther.& They ruled Asia for twenty-eight years; and all the land was wasted by reason of their violence and their arrogance.& The greater number of them were entertained and made drunk and were then slain by Cyaxares and the Medes (I.103 106). They drank the blood of the first enemy killed in battle, and made napkins of the scalps, and drinking bowls of the skulls of the slain. They had the most filthy habits and never washed with water (IV.64, 65, 75). Cf. Tertullian, Against Marcion I.1, Marcion was born there, more filthy than any Scythian.

Josephus states, The Scythians delight in murdering people and are little better than wild beasts (Against Apion II.269). In II Macc. 4:47 we read, Menelaus, the cause of all the evil & sentenced to death those unfortunate men who would have been set at liberty uncondemned if they had pleaded even against the Scythians. That even against the Scythians speaks volumes! Cf. III Macc. 7:5. And Origen (Against Celsus I.1) speaks of Scythian laws, or more impious even than these, if there be any such. ) Nevertheless, even though a man be a Scythian, that as such cannot hinder him from becoming a new man in Christ.

That is what Paul is here saying. Or, as Justin Martyr put it so strikingly, But though a man be a Scythian or a Persian, if he has the knowledge of God and of his [God s] Christ, and keeps the everlasting righteous decrees, he is circumcised with the good and beneficial circumcision, and is a friend of God, and God rejoices in his gifts and offerings (Dialogue with Trypho, ch. 28).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.36|AUTODETECT|” And finally, as to slave, freeman, since If therefore the Son will make you free, you will be free indeed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.36|AUTODETECT|” John 8:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.23-51.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ), any bondage that pertains to merely earthly social relationships can have no relevance for salvation. For more extensive discussion of Slavery see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.23-51.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:23 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; also Commentary on Philemon in this volume, and Scripture on Slavery, pp. 233 237.) 1 7 2 8 0 0 Paul concludes this paragraph with the words, but Christ (is) all and in all. Christ, as the all-sufficient Lord and Savior, is all that matters. His Spirit-mediated indwelling in all believers, of whatever racial-religious, cultural, or social background they be, guarantees the creation and gradual perfection in each and in all of the new man, who is being renewed for full knowledge according to the image of him who created him. Thus, most appropriately, the very theme of the entire letter, namely, Christ, the Pre-eminent One, the Only and All-Sufficient Savior, climaxes this passage.��129��) ) 3:12 17) III. They Should Put On the New Virtues) 12 Put on, therefore, as God s elect, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, longsuffering, 13 enduring one another, and forgiving each other if anyone have a complaint against anyone. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so do you also. 14 And above all these things (put on) love, which is the bond of perfection. 15 And let the peace of Christ, for which you were called in one body, rule in your hearts, and be thankful. 16 Let the word of Christ dwell among you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another, (and) by means of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs singing to God in a thankful spirit, with all your heart. 17 And whatever you do in word or in deed, (do) all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.) ) As the calmness of the inland lake, reflecting the beauty of the rising sun, follows the turbulence of warring winds and tempestuous billows, so, in principle, the peace of Christ (verse 15) had displaced the restlessness which formerly characterized the Colossians, when they lived apart from Christ, as described in the previous paragraph (see especially verses 5 9).

For beauty of style and direct appeal to the heart the present section is unsurpassed. The same can be said about its practical value. If the Colossians will only live the life that is portrayed in such a graphic and yet simple manner in these few lines, their problems will be solved. Of course, only by strength imparted by God and by means of complete reliance on the sustaining power of his sovereign, transforming grace, will they be able to heed the directions given. These directions are introduced as follows:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.1.4-49.1.6|AUTODETECT|” 12, 13. Put on, therefore, as God s elect, holy and beloved. Put on is repeated from verse 10. And the word therefore means (amplified), Since you have in principle taken Christ into your hearts, therefore actually be in practice yes, be fully what you have professed to be, and what I, Paul, actually believe you have begun to be. Be this as God s elect. For a twelve-point summary of the doctrine of election in the epistles of Paul see N.T.C. on I and II Thess., pp. 48 50.

Note especially the following statements, taken from points 7, 10, and 12: Election affects life in all its phases, is not abstract. Although it belongs to God s decree from eternity, it becomes a dynamic force in the hearts and lives of God s children. It produces fruits. It is an election not only unto salvation but definitely also (as a link in the chain) unto service. It has as its final aim God s glory, and is the work of his delight 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4-49.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:4 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” In apposition with the expression God s elect are the ascriptions holy and beloved. As God s chosen ones, these people, both individually and collectively as far as they are true believers, are holy, that is, set apart for the Lord and for his work. They have been cleansed by the blood of Christ from the guilt of their sins, and are being delivered, more and more, from sin s pollution, and renewed according to the image of God (see on verse 10 above). They are, moreover, beloved, and this especially by God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; cf. II Thess. 4:13).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Thus, the qualifying designations of honor that were formerly applied to the ancient covenant people of Israel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.9|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ; then ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Hos. 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.25|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 9:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) are here used in connection with the members of the church of the new dispensation. The church is the new Israel. Paul continues. (Put on) a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, longsuffering. It is immediately evident that these qualities overlap. A person with a compassionate heart will also be kind. One who is lowly or humble in disposition will also be meek, etc. Hence, not) 1 6 2 8 0 0 ) ) but) ) ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.8|AUTODETECT|” and so for the others. The expression heart of compassion��130�� indicates a very deep feeling, a yearning with the deeply-felt affection of Christ Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.43.30|AUTODETECT|” ). As to the depth of this feeling one thinks of the reaction of Joseph upon seeing Benjamin 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.43.30|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 43:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.45.1-1.45.4|AUTODETECT|” ), or in revealing himself to his brothers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.45.1-1.45.4|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 45:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.18.1|AUTODETECT|” ). Another example would be the tender relationship between David and Jonathan 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.18.1|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 18:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.20.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.20.4|AUTODETECT|” 20:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.20.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.20.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.6|AUTODETECT|” The next quality is kindness. This is Spirit-imparted goodness of heart, the very opposite of the malice or badness mentioned in verse 8. The early Christians by means of kindness commended themselves to others 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.6|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ). God, too, is kind 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.22|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.22|AUTODETECT|” 11:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.35|AUTODETECT|” ), and we are admonished to become like him in this respect 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.25-42.10.37|AUTODETECT|” ). Examples of human kindness would be the same persons already mentioned in connection with heart of compassion. To avoid repetition, let us add the Good Samaritan of the well-known parable 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.25-42.10.37|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:25 37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.36|AUTODETECT|” ), Barnabas 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.36|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.37|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.37|AUTODETECT|” 37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.37|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.37|AUTODETECT|” 15:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.7-52.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ), and the apostle Paul himself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.7-52.2.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:7 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.3|AUTODETECT|” Lowliness or humility a virtue despised by the heathen (as noted earlier) is also mentioned as a quality which believers should more and more strive to acquire. The person who is kind to others generally does not have too high an estimate of himself. A happy condition arises when in a church each member counts the other to be better than himself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.3|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.6|AUTODETECT|” ). Of course, there is also such a thing as feigned humility (see on 2:18, 23). Good examples of true humility would be the centurion who said, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.13|AUTODETECT|” ), and the publican who, in a striking parable, pours out his heart by sighing, God, be merciful to me, the sinner 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.13|AUTODETECT|” Luke 18:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). According to the entire context, however, it is modest self-appraisal in relation to the neighbors, especially to fellow-believers, that Paul has in mind. Of course, these two humility toward God and the same disposition toward men far from being mutually exclusive, belong together.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.12.3|AUTODETECT|” Meekness, mentioned next, is definitely not weakness or spinelessness, the characteristic of the person who is ready to bow before every breeze. It is submissiveness under provocation, the willingness rather to suffer injury than to inflict it. A striking example is Moses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.12.3|AUTODETECT|” Num. 12:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 For longsuffering see on 1:11. What a longsuffering hero was Jeremiah during his lengthy period of prophetic activity. Think also of Hosea who, instead of rejecting his unfaithful wife, slips away to the haunt of shame, redeems Gomer with fifteen pieces of silver and a homer and a half of barley, and mercifully restores her to her position of honor!��131��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.2|AUTODETECT|” Continued: enduring one another. The Colossians are urged to bear with one another in love 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.2|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.11|AUTODETECT|” ). Paul was able to say, Being persecuted we endure (Cor. 4:12). The example of Job comes to mind 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.5.11|AUTODETECT|” James 5:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.12|AUTODETECT|” ). Paul adds, and forgiving��132�� each other if anyone have a complaint against anyone. Just as the Lord��133�� has forgiven you, so do you also. For the divine forgiveness see on 2:13. Christ, while on earth, had taught his disciples to pray, Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.22|AUTODETECT|” ). It is possible that the expression Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so do you also is a conscious echo of the just quoted petition of the Lord s Prayer, showing that Paul knew that prayer. Anyway, it is identical in spirit and meaning. Jesus had also instructed Peter to forgive not up to seven times but up to seventy times seven times 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.22|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.35|AUTODETECT|” ), and had added a touching parable ending with the words, So also my heavenly Father will do to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from the heart 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.35|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.11.25|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.11.25|AUTODETECT|” Mark 11:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” ). Moreover, the Lord had underscored these precepts with his own example. While being crucified he had implored, Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). When Stephen, while he was being stoned to death, prayed Lord, lay not this sin to their charge, he was following the example of Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.28|AUTODETECT|” This would seem to be the proper place to point out that Paul here links his admonitions to Christ s person and work, as has been indicated also in connection with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.28|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.36|AUTODETECT|” . See the three columns there. The qualities which, according to Paul s teaching here, mark the new man are also ascribed to Christ. For his heart of compassion and his kindness see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.36|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.14.14|AUTODETECT|” 14:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.32|AUTODETECT|” 15:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.34|AUTODETECT|” 20:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.29|AUTODETECT|” . His lowliness and meekness are exemplified in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.29|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 11:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.5|AUTODETECT|” 21:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.1-43.13.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.1-43.13.15|AUTODETECT|” John 13:1 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.17.17|AUTODETECT|” ; his longsuffering and endurance or forbearance, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.17.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 17:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.9|AUTODETECT|” John 14:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.23|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.2|AUTODETECT|” ; and his forgiving spirit, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.2|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.47|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.7.47|AUTODETECT|” Luke 7:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.34|AUTODETECT|” 23:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.0|AUTODETECT|” . Accordingly, when a believer manifests these virtues in his association with his fellow-men he has put on Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.0|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.9|AUTODETECT|” :l4). And it is comforting to know that he who has seen Christ has seen the Father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.9|AUTODETECT|” John 14:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.18|AUTODETECT|” 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.1|AUTODETECT|” ), and that he who is an imitator of Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.1|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 11:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.6|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ) is also an imitator of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 14. This holds also with respect to love, as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.13|AUTODETECT|” clearly indicates. The apostle continues, And above all these things (put on) love, which is the bond of perfection. This supremacy of love note above all these things is clear also from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.13|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 13:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” . Love heads the list of the fruits of the Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.9|AUTODETECT|” ). In Paul s prayer for the Philippians the petition mentioned first of all is that your love may abound more and more 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.9|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ). Love dominates the writings of John, where it is mentioned scores of times. With Peter, too, love is supreme 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.4.8|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.24|AUTODETECT|” ). How highly the anonymous author of Hebrews regards it is evident from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.24|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 10:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.1|AUTODETECT|” 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.6|AUTODETECT|” . Love is the lubricant that enables the other virtues to function smoothly 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.6|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ). It is intelligent and purposeful self-giving that Paul has in mind, the fulfilment of both the law and the gospel. In the present context it is especially mutual love, love for one another within the Christian community, that is thought of, though it is true that such love overflows its boundaries 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.34|AUTODETECT|” ). That is of the very essence of love: to overflow. It was this love for one another, as brothers and sisters in the Lord, of which Jesus spoke when he issued his new commandment 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.34|AUTODETECT|” John 13:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.9|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ). See also on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Now this love is called the bond of perfection. This has been interpreted to mean that love is the grace that binds all these other graces together (Bruce, op. cit., p. 281). Though this may be correct, and a sensible connotation is thereby ascribed to the expression, it is probably better to interpret it in the light of what Paul himself says in this very epistle, namely, they themselves being welded together in love (2:2). Love, then is the bond of perfection in the sense that it is that which unites believers, causing them to move forward toward the goal of perfection. This interpretation is also in line with the apostle s purpose in writing this letter. It is as if he were saying, Not knowledge or philosophy the kind of knowledge and philosophy of which false teachers boast or obedience to human regulations, but love for one another, the spontaneous response to God s love for you, is that which will strengthen and unite you, and will lead you toward the attainment of your spiritual ideal. For the meaning of this ideal see also on 1:28.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.7|AUTODETECT|” 15. Paul continues, And let the peace of Christ, for which you were called in one body, rule in your hearts. This peace is the condition of rest and contentment in the hearts of those who know that their Redeemer lives. It is the conviction that the sins of the past have been forgiven, that the present is being overruled for good, and that the future cannot bring about separation between Christ and his own. Concerning this peace the apostle says in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.7|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|” , And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will keep guard over your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus. It is the peace of Christ because it was merited for believers by Christ, is through his Spirit bestowed upon them, and is fostered by this same Lord and Savior 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|” John 14:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” 16:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.19|AUTODETECT|” 20:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It is, moreover, patterned after the peace that dwells in the Savior s own heart.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.3|AUTODETECT|” Now this peace also has its social aspect, on which the emphasis falls in the present passage 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.3|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ), as is evident from the phrase for which you were called in one body. When men were called out of the darkness into the light they, as seen by God, were not drawn out of their sinful environment as pebbles are picked up from the beach. On the contrary, they were called as a body, for from eternity they had been viewed as a corporate entity in Christ. In time they were called in order that they might promote this spiritual oneness in every way. Now this purpose can be accomplished only when the peace of Christ rules��134�� in each heart. Let each individual, therefore, constantly ask himself, Will I have peace within if I do this or do that? Let him be sure to be at peace with God, for only then can he expect to live in true harmony with his brothers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.1|AUTODETECT|” James 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Paul adds, and be thankful. It is worthy of note how frequently in this brief epistle the apostle refers to the privilege and duty of being thankful (1:3, 12; 2:7; 3:15, 16, 17; 4:2). Gratitude makes for peace and excellent public relations. When a person is overpowered by the feeling of warm and deep appreciation for benefits received from God he will hardly be able to grudge someone else his wealth or superior talents. Hence, this admonition fits splendidly into the immediate context. Gratitude promotes peace.

The exhortation also suits the broader context which mentions some of the blessings believers have received. They are hid with Christ in God, have received the forgiveness of sins, and are experiencing daily spiritual renewal. Moreover, the apostle is about to mention the further blessings of the indwelling word and of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. For all these favors thanksgiving is in order. Though all men should give thanks, the Christian can be expected to do so. Ingratitude marks paganism 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.16-51.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ). In all probability it also marked the fearfilled alarmists who were vexing the addressees 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.16-51.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:16 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Having therefore been rescued from paganism let the Colossians also turn their backs upon these so-called philosophers. Let them in newness of spirit be joyful and praise the Lord every day. Thus they will be truly and serenely blessed, and in turn will be a blessing to others.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.5|AUTODETECT|” 16. Paul has just been saying. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts. At first glance a believer might well ask, however, If I do this am I not building the edifice of my hope and trust upon a rather insecure, subjective foundation? After further thought, however, he answers, Not at all, for I have peace when in my inmost being I, by God s sovereign grace, resolve to live in accordance with the objective word of Christ. Verses 15 and 16 must therefore not be separated.

By obedience to the gospel peace is conveyed to the heart. So Paul continues, Let the word of Christ dwell among��135�� you richly. The objective, special revelation that proceeds from (and concerns) Christ the Christ-word should govern every thought, word, and deed, yes even the hidden drives and motivations of every member, and thus should bear sway among them all, and this richly, bearing much fruit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.5|AUTODETECT|” John 15:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.9|AUTODETECT|” ). This will happen if believers heed the word 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.15|AUTODETECT|” ), handle it rightly 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.15|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.11|AUTODETECT|” ), hide it in their hearts 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.119.11|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 119:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.16|AUTODETECT|” ), and hold it forth to others as being in truth the word of life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.16|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ). Though when the apostle wrote this, the word of Christ had not yet been entrusted to the written page in the form and to the extent in which we now have it, this does not cancel the fact that for Paul and for all believers in his day as well as, in broader scope, for us today, All scripture (is) God-breathed and useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be equipped, for every good work thoroughly equipped 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.16|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The logical continuation is: in all wisdom��136�� teaching and admonishing one another.��137��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” For the explanation of these words see on 1:28, where essentially the same thought is expressed in an almost identical statement. The differences are as follows: (1) in 1:28 the apostle relates what he, Timothy, etc., are doing; here 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ) he admonishes the Colossian believers what they should be doing. In both cases the content is the same: admonishing and teaching. Believers, by virtue of their office as believers let them not forget that they are clothed with that office! should do what Paul and his associates are doing by virtue of their office, respectively as apostle and apostolic delegates. Each person must do it in accordance with the rights and duties of his particular office. (2) In 1:28 the object is somewhat broader, every man. Here 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) the emphasis is rather on mutual teaching and admonition. And (3) in 1:28 the phrase in all wisdom is placed last. In the Colossian passage it is placed first, perhaps to underscore the thought conveyed in the immediately preceding adverb richly, as if to say, If the word of Christ is to dwell among you richly, then in all wisdom you should admonish and teach each other. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 There is something else that should also be done if the word of Christ is to dwell among the Colossians richly. It is stated in these words: (and) by means of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs��138�� singing to God in a thankful spirit,��139�� with all your heart.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” Paul clearly recognizes the edifying nature of God-glorifying singing. As to the meaning of the terms psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.42|AUTODETECT|” ) a little investigation quickly shows that it may not be easy to distinguish sharply between these three. It is possible that there is here some overlapping of meanings. Thus, in connection with psalms it is natural to think of the Old Testament Psalter, and, in support of this view, to appeal to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.20.42|AUTODETECT|” Luke 20:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.44|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.24.44|AUTODETECT|” 24:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.33|AUTODETECT|” 13:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.26|AUTODETECT|” . So far there is no difficulty. However, expositors are by no means agreed that this can also be the meaning of the word psalm in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.26|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 14:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” As to hymns, in the New Testament the word hymn is found only in our present passage 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” ) and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.30|AUTODETECT|” . Augustine, in more than one place, states that a hymn has three essentials: it must be sung; it must be praise; it must be to God. According to this definition it would be possible for an Old Testament psalm, sung in praise to God, to be also a hymn. Thus when Jesus and his disciples were about to leave the Upper Room in order to go to the Mount of Olives, they hymned 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.26.30|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 26:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.26|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.25|AUTODETECT|” ). It is held by many that what they hymned was Psalms 115 118. According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.16.25|AUTODETECT|” Acts 16:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.12|AUTODETECT|” in the Philippian prison Paul and Silas were hymning to God. Is it not altogether probable that some, if not all, of these hymns were psalms? Cf. also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.46-42.1.55|AUTODETECT|” . But if Augustine s definition is correct there are also hymns that do not belong to the Old Testament Psalter; such hymns as the Magnificat 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.46-42.1.55|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:46 55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.68-42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” ) and the Benedictus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.68-42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:68 79) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ). Fragments of other New Testament hymns seem to be embedded in the letters of Paul 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.14|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.15-51.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.15-51.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:15 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , and perhaps others).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” The word song or ode (in the sense of poem intended to be sung) occurs not only in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.9|AUTODETECT|” but also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.9|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.14.3|AUTODETECT|” 14:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.15.3|AUTODETECT|” , where the new song is indicated, and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.15.3|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 15:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , where the reference is to the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, These are not Old Testament Psalms. Moreover, a song or ode is not necessarily a sacred song. In the present case the fact that it is, indeed, sacred is shown by the addition of the adjective spiritual.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” All in all, then, it would seem that when here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 the apostle uses these three terms, apparently distinguishing them at least to some extent, the term psalms has reference, at least mainly, to the Old Testament Psalter; hymns mainly to New Testament songs of praise to God or to Christ; and spiritual songs mainly to any other sacred songs dwelling on themes other than direct praise to God or to Christ.��140��) 1 4 2 8 0 0 The point that must not be ignored is this, that these songs must be sung in a thankful spirit. The songs must be poured forth sincerely, rising from within the humbly grateful hearts of believers. It has been said that next to Scripture itself a good Psalter-Hymnal is the richest fountain of edification. Not only are its songs a source of daily nourishment for the church, but they also serve as a very effective vehicle for the outpouring of confession of sin, gratitude, spiritual joy, rapture. Whether sung in the regular worship-service on the Lord s Day, at a midweek meeting, in social gatherings, in connection with family-worship, at a festive occasion, or privately, they are a tonic for the soul and promote the glory of God. They do this because they fix the interest upon the indwelling word of Christ, and carry the attention away from that worldly cacophony by which people with low moral standards are being emotionally overstimulated.) The passage under discussion has often been used in support of this or that theory with respect to what may or may not be sung in the official worship-service.

Perhaps it is correct to say that the appeal is justified if one is satisfied with a few broad, general principles; for example, (1) In our services the psalms should not be neglected. (2) As to hymns, in the stricter sense of songs of praise, It is probably true that a larger proportion of the religious poems which are used in public praise should be hymns in the stricter sense. They should be addressed to God. Too many are subjective, not to say sentimental, and express only personal experiences and aspirations which are sometimes lacking in reality Charles E. Erdman (op. cit., p. 91).) For the rest, it is well to bear in mind that Paul s purpose is not to lay down detailed rules and regulations pertaining to ecclesiastical liturgy. He is interested in showing the Colossians and all those to whom or by whom the letter would be read how they may grow in grace, and may manifest rightly the power of the indwelling word. His admonition, therefore, can be applied to every type of Christian gathering, whether on the Sabbath or during the week, whether in church or at home or anywhere else.��141��) 17.

A fundamental principle for Christian life and conduct summarizes and climaxes this priceless paragraph, namely, And whatever you do in word or in deed, (do) all��142�� in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” For the expression Whatever you do see also verse 23 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 10:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.20|AUTODETECT|” . In connection with Do all in the name of the Lord Jesus it should be noted that the name indicates the Lord Jesus himself as he has revealed himself.��143�� In the name means, accordingly, in vital relation with him, that is, in harmony with his revealed will, in subjection to his authority, in dependence on his power. The clause giving thanks to God the Father through him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.20|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” ; then also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” John 14:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.5|AUTODETECT|” 15:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.8|AUTODETECT|” b; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” 7:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.27|AUTODETECT|” 16:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.20|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) is explained by the fact that it is on the basis of the Son s atonement that sinners are accepted by the Father, and that they receive every blessing. Hence, it is altogether just and fair that through him thanksgiving be given to the Father.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The main lessons of this closing paragraph should not escape us. As I see it they are the following:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.16-51.2.23|AUTODETECT|” (1) Whatever you do is very general. In contrast with the many specific rules and regulations which false teachers were trying to impose upon the Colossians 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.16-51.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:16 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), Paul simply enunciates a comprehensive principle, and permits believers to work it out for themselves in perfect freedom. After all, the child of God of the new dispensation is not under bondage. Let the Spirit within him rule him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.10|AUTODETECT|” (2) This Spirit (hence also the Spirit-indwelt believer) operates in connection with the word, that is, the revelation of the Lord Jesus. Man is free only when he abides in Christ. Let him therefore always ask himself, What shall I do, Lord? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.10|AUTODETECT|” Acts 22:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Let him diligently and prayerfully study Scripture. It is in that sense that (1) above is to be understood.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 (3) In connection with any and every word and deed the believer should ask himself, Am I able to thank God the Father for having given me the opportunity to say or do this? (Cf. Bruce, op. cit., p. 286).) (4) The sovereignty or pre-eminence of the Lord Jesus in relation to the entire universe with all its events and in relation to the believer himself should be joyfully acknowledged. Therefore, too, he should do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus. ) We notice, therefore, that the present paragraph closes as did also the preceding one (see on 3:11), with a reminder of the theme of the entire epistle, Christ, the Pre-eminent One, the Only and All-Sufficient Savior.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1-51.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Summary of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1-51.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Colossians 3:1 17) 1 17 2 8 0 0 By accepting the counsel which Paul here offers, the Colossians will not only win victory upon victory in their battle with the flesh (see 2:23; 3:5 9), but will live a life of usefulness for the edification of the church and the benefit of their fellowmen, to the glory of God. Let them, accordingly, be consistent. Having been raised with Christ let them seek the things that are above, not those that are upon the earth, for their life (and this section of Colossians concerns the believers life) is hid with Christ in God. It was heaven that gave them birth, for they were born from above. Their names are inscribed in heaven s register. Their rights are secured in heaven.

Their interests are being promoted there. Hence, since they belong to heaven, let their lives be governed according to heavenly standards, and to heaven let their thoughts and prayers ascend, and their hopes aspire. Let them seek to obtain for themselves those heavenly gifts mentioned in verses 12 17. And since Christ in them is the hope of glory (1:27), it must be true that when Christ (who is) our life is manifested, then they too will be manifested with him in glory. ) A radical break with former vices is therefore in order. These must in fact be put to death. Once and for all they must be laid aside.

Since at their baptism the Colossians had publicly repudiated the old man with his evil deeds and had put on the new man, let them therefore now continue to do in practice what they had already done in principle. The Creator of the new man will enable them to do this. And this applies to all true believers. Here every class-distinction disappears completely, for Christ is all and in all. ) In order to bid defiance to the forces of evil let them, however, not concentrate on evil. Let vice be conquered by virtue. Let evil be overcome with good.

Let them therefore, having accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior, become imitators of him, so that all his marvelous virtues a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, above all love may also be seen in them. Thus, they will be welded into a strong, spiritual unity. Let, therefore, Christ s peace rule in their hearts. Let his word dwell among them, so that in all wisdom they will teach and admonish each other. Let them be so filled with joy and gratitude as to pour forth their very hearts in jubilation, singing not only the psalms of the sweet singer of Israel but also hymns of praise and other spiritual songs.) Paul concludes this paragraph by laying down not a set of detailed rules and regulations but a basic principle (which is far better), And whatever you do in word or in deed, (do) all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Thus once more, as often in this letter, Paul is directing the minds and hearts of the addressees to the only and all-sufficient Savior Jesus Christ, and via that sovereign Mediator, to God the Father.) CHAPTER III & IV) Outline of Chapter 3:18 4:1) Theme: Christ, the Pre-eminent One, the Only and All-Sufficient Savior) II.

This Only and All-Sufficient Savior Is the Source of the Believers Life, and Thus the Real Answer to the Perils by Which They Are Confronted, chapters 3 and 4) B. This Truth Applied to Special Groups, 3:18 4:1) 3:18, 19 1. Wives and their husbands) 3:20, 21 2. Children and their fathers) 3:22 4:1 3. Slaves and their masters) ) 3:18, 19) I. Wives and Their Husbands) 18 Wives, be submissive to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh toward them.) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.22-49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” A new paragraph begins here. The sublime yet very practical truth that Christ is the only and all-sufficient Savior and as such the source of the believers life is now going to be applied to special groups. Paul is thinking of household groups. What we have here, therefore, is a kind of table of household duties, sometimes simply called house-table. Now it is true that even in the writings of non-Christian moralists we find codes of domestic behavior.��144�� But the notion that the apostle is simply copying their tables, and coating them with a thin varnish of Christianity merely (!) adding in Christ misses the point entirely. Between these pithy directives as presented here in Colossians also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.22-49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:22 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.8-54.2.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.8-54.2.15|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 2:8 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.1|AUTODETECT|” 6:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.1-56.2.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.1-56.2.10|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:1 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.12-60.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.12-60.3.7|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:12 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 and the maxims of the Stoics and other moral philosophers, there is, indeed, at times a superficial resemblance, but there are at least three main differences:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.1-56.2.10|AUTODETECT|” (1) Christianity, as proclaimed by Paul, etc., supplied the power to carry out the commands, that power being the grace of God, mentioned in that very connection at the close of the list in Titus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.1-56.2.10|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:1 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.13|AUTODETECT|” , then verse 11; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.13|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). All other moral philosophies, the very best of them, are trains lacking engines!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” (2) Christianity also presented a new purpose. That purpose was not simply to try to live in agreement with Nature, but to do everything to the glory of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 10:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.18-51.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ), that is, in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him, as stated in the Colossian context (3:17). The only proper way to explain ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.18-51.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:18 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.17|AUTODETECT|” is in the light of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . And finally,) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.25|AUTODETECT|” (3) Christianity, as originating in Christ, supplied the only true pattern for God-glorifying conduct on the part of the very groups here discussed, namely, wives and their husbands, children and their fathers, servants and their masters. Christ himself, as the bridegroom, in his matchless love for the church, his bride, furnished the standard for the love of Christian marriage 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.25|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.51|AUTODETECT|” In his obedience to his parents 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.51|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.25-43.19.27|AUTODETECT|” ), in the wonderful manner in which he, in the midst of the tortures of hell, provided for his earthly mother 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.25-43.19.27|AUTODETECT|” John 19:25 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ), and in fact in his entire life of obedience to his heavenly Father, culminating in a death in which that obedience was climaxed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.20-42.15.24|AUTODETECT|” ), he gave to all an example of patient submission. That example was certainly intended also for the children. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.15.20-42.15.24|AUTODETECT|” Luke 15:20 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .)) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.13-43.13.17|AUTODETECT|” Last of all, in his willingness to stoop very low, which he proved by washing the feet of his disciples and by his death on the cross, he gave an object-lesson intended for all, certainly also for masters and slaves, as plainly indicated in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.13.13-43.13.17|AUTODETECT|” John 13:13 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.18|AUTODETECT|” 18. The first admonition is, Wives, be submissive to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Suffragists have said that it is positively wicked to use the word obey in the marriage contract. They have loudly affirmed that the marriage service in its present Form compels the bride to take a vow which she has no intention of keeping. A Prayer Book has eliminated the word obey from its Marriage Form. All this, however, does not eliminate ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ! Moreover, a little searching will quickly show that what the passage teaches is the consistent doctrine of Scripture anent this point. See the following passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.2|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.34|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 14:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.35|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.35|AUTODETECT|” 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.22-49.5.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.22-49.5.24|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:22 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.33|AUTODETECT|” 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.11-54.2.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.11-54.2.15|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 2:11 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.5|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.1-60.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.1-60.3.6|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 3:1 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.18|AUTODETECT|” . And the reason given here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.28|AUTODETECT|” is that such obedience is (and always has been) fitting in the Lord, being in harmony with his will as revealed in Scripture. A Christian wife will therefore gladly strive to regulate her conduct in harmony with this command. She will not begin to think that her equality in spiritual standing before God and the great liberty which has now become her portion as a believer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.28|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ) entitles her to forget about the fact that in his sovereign wisdom God made the human pair in such a manner that it is natural for the husband to lead, for the wife to follow; for him to be aggressive (in the most favorable sense), for her to be receptive; for him to invent, for her to use the tools which he invents. The tendency to follow was embedded in Eve s very soul as she came forth from the hand of her Creator. Hence any attempt to reverse this order is displeasing to God. Why should a woman be encouraged to do things that are contrary to her nature? Her very body, far from preceding that of Adam in the order of creation, was taken out of Adam s body. Her very name Ish-sha was derived from his name Ish 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It is when the wife recognizes this basic distinction and acts accordingly that she can be a blessing to her husband, can exert a gracious, very powerful, and beneficent influence upon him, and can promote not only his but also her own happiness.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 In connection with this command that wives be submissive to their husbands the following should also be noted:) (1) It does not imply the wives inferiority to their husbands. In non-Christian circles wives (in fact, women in general) were regarded as being inferior beings. Among the Greeks, in spite of their high degree of culture, wives, as a rule, were not considered to be the equals or even the companions of their husbands. The Romans, too, regarded women as being intrinsically inferior. Philo, a Jewish philosopher who was greatly influenced by Greek philosophy, regarded women as being selfish, jealous, and hypo-critical, and married men as being no longer free men but slaves.) The status of women in the Qumran community, which has given us the Dead Sea Scrolls, was not enviable. There seem to have been both celibate and non-celibate groups in the Qumran sect (see Miller Burrows, More Light on the Dead Sea Scrolls, pp. 358, 383).

One of the most conspicuous differences between the church and the Qumran sect & was the entirely different status of women in the two communities (same author, The Dead Sea Scrolls, p. 333; cf. pp. 233, 244, 291; also H. Mulder, De vondsten bij de Dode Zee, p. 35).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.28|AUTODETECT|” Christianity changed all this 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.28|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.13|AUTODETECT|” ), and is still changing it among those who are being led to accept it.��145�� Jesus made some of his most startling revelations to women 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.13|AUTODETECT|” John 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.21-43.4.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.21-43.4.26|AUTODETECT|” 21 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.25|AUTODETECT|” 11:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.11-43.20.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.11-43.20.18|AUTODETECT|” 20:11 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). For the dignity of women in Paul s epistles see N.T.C. on I and II Timothy and Titus, pp. 113, 114.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.29|AUTODETECT|” (2) It is not absolute. If a husband should ever ask his wife to do something which in her conscience (illumined by Scripture) she knows to be wrong, she has the right and the duty to disobey her husband 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.29|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 (3) It is issued in a context of love, of which wives must be the objects, for Paul continues:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.25-49.5.33|AUTODETECT|” 19. Husbands, love��146�� your wives, and do not be harsh toward them. The best commentary is Paul s own, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.25-49.5.33|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:25 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.5.25|AUTODETECT|” . A discussion of the contents of that magnificent passage does not belong here but in a Commentary on Ephesians. The love of a husband for his wife is sexual, to be sure, but also rises above the sexual. It is natural affection, but it is also far more than that. It is the love for one s wife as a sister in the Lord. This love acts as a moderating influence upon the husband s exercise of authority.

It is true that the primary responsibility for the final decision with respect to a matter rests with the husband, but the method of reaching that decision leaves ample room for mutual deliberation and gentle persuasion, in the course of which, perhaps, at times the husband s tentative conclusion may finally prevail, at other times the wife s, her partner having come to see that she was right. Thus, the husband, having fully committed himself to the principle that his love for his wife must be a true reflection of the deep, sacrificial love of Christ for the church 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.25|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ), acts toward her as a man of understanding, is never harsh or cross, but is considerate toward her,��147�� and honors her in every way 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.7|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.31.12|AUTODETECT|” ). In such a marriage each seeks to please and benefit the other 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.31.12|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 31:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.33|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 7:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.34|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.34|AUTODETECT|” 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ), and to promote the other s welfare, and this not only physically and culturally but also, and in fact mainly, spiritually. The husband views his wife as his equal in the sense that she is a joint-heir of the grace of life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.7|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.67|AUTODETECT|” ). See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.67|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 24:67) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (Isaac s love for Rebekah) and 29:20 (Jacob s love for Rachel).) 1 5 2 8 0 0 ) 3:20, 21) II. Children and Their Fathers) 20 Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing in the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not exasperate your children, in order that they may not lose heart.) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.20.12|AUTODETECT|” 20. Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing in the Lord.��148�� This admonition is completely in line with such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.20.12|AUTODETECT|” Ex. 20:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.21.15-2.21.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.21.15-2.21.17|AUTODETECT|” 21:15 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.20.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.20.9|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 20:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.5.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.5.16|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 5:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.21.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.21.18|AUTODETECT|” 21:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.6.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.6.20|AUTODETECT|” 6:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.30.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.30.17|AUTODETECT|” 30:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Mal. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.4-40.15.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.4-40.15.6|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 15:4 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.19|AUTODETECT|” 19:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.7.10-41.7.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.7.10-41.7.13|AUTODETECT|” Mark 7:10 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.19|AUTODETECT|” 10:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.1-49.6.3|AUTODETECT|” ; 18:20; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.1-49.6.3|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.30|AUTODETECT|” . Disobedience to parents is one of the vices of paganism 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.30|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ). It marks the ever-increasing wickedness of the last days 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.2|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.5|AUTODETECT|” ). The soul-destructive falsehood that would abolish all parental authority the very word authority being anathema in certain educational circles! , so that children no longer need to pay any attention to their father s instruction or to their mother s teaching, is directly contrary to the clear teaching of Scripture, both Old and New Testament. Godly parents do not inflict upon their children the cruelty of telling them that they should do just as they please. According to both Scripture and experience children are not only immature but also sinful by nature, wholly incapable by nature to choose the good 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.5|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 51:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.29|AUTODETECT|” ). And because of this the admonition in the form in which it is found here is very comprehensive: the children are exhorted to obey their parents in all things, always subject to the limitation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.29|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Such obedience is well-pleasing. This word is generally 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.1|AUTODETECT|” ) modified by to God or to the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.14.18|AUTODETECT|” 14:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.9|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.10|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.21|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.21|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 13:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.20.12|AUTODETECT|” ). This modifier may certainly also be viewed as implied in our present passage. That God is pleased with this obedience is clear from the fact that he himself in the Decalogue pronounced a special blessing upon it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.20.12|AUTODETECT|” Ex. 20:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.5.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.5.16|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 5:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.2|AUTODETECT|” ), to which the apostle refers in the parallel Ephesian passage 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.2|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.6.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). For that matter, obedience to God s commandments is always well-pleasing to him! That it is carried out in the Lord, that is, in fellowship with and dependence upon him, is understood by every child, whether older or younger, who from the heart is able to sing:) 1 10 2 8 0 0 When we walk with the Lord) In the light of his Word,) What a glory he sheds on our way!) While we do his good will) He abides with us still,) And with all who will trust and obey.) Trust and obey, for there s no other way) To be happy in Jesus,) But to trust and obey. (J. H. Sammis)) 21. One of the most striking characteristics of these brief admonitions is their reciprocal character. In enjoining God-glorifying domestic relationships they do not stress the duty of wives at the expense of that of husbands, of children at the expense of that of fathers, or of slaves at the expense of that of masters. Outside of special revelation there is very little of this balance.

Often the duty of the first member in each group is stressed, and little or nothing is said about the second. In ancient times when things went wrong all the blame was heaped on wives, children,��149�� and slaves. But Paul, having admonished husbands as well as wives, and having just now reminded the children of their obligation to their parents, in all fairness proceeds to issue a directive to the fathers also: Fathers,��150�� do not exasperate��151�� your children, in order that they may not lose heart.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Fathers should create an atmosphere which will make obedience an easy and natural matter, namely, the atmosphere of love and confidence. They should bring up their children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.21|AUTODETECT|” ).��152�� When fathers are unjust or overly severe, a spirit of sullen resignation is created in the hearts of their offspring. The children lose heart, thinking, No matter what I do, it s always wrong. There should be no nagging, no constant Don t do this and Don t do that. Though the negative admonition cannot and must not be avoided and is at times definitely in place (note the repeated Thou shalt not of the Decalogue, in the teaching of Jesus, and in Paul s epistles, including this very passage!), the emphasis must be on the positive 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.21|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.13.24|AUTODETECT|” ). A good father spends time with his children, teaches, entertains, and encourages them, and by his example as well as by outright, verbal instruction, points them to Christ. Though the rod of correction may at times be necessary, it must be used with discretion, since wise reproof is generally better than a hundred stripes 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.13.24|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 13:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.13|AUTODETECT|” 23:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.23.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; then 17:10). Paul s admonition not to embitter the children hence, to be kind to them is quite different from the advice given to fathers by Ben Sira: He who loves his son will whip him often.& Bow down his neck in his youth, and beat his sides while he is young (Ecclus. 30:1, 12). How friendly and fatherly!) 1 7 2 8 0 0 ) 3:22 4:1) III. Slaves and Their Masters) See also Scripture on Slavery, pp. 233 237) 22 Slaves, obey in all things those who according to the flesh are your masters, not with eye-service as men-pleasers but with singleness of heart, fearing the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, put your soul into the work, as for the Lord and not for me, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the recompense, namely, the inheritance. (It is) the Lord Christ (whom) you are serving. 25 For, the wrong-doer will receive (the consequences of) what he has wrongly done. And there is no partiality.) 1 Masters, render to your slaves that which is fair and square, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.18|AUTODETECT|” 22. Slaves, obey in all things those who according to the flesh are your masters & Nowhere in Scripture is it stated that slavery as such is a divine ordinance, such as marriage 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.27|AUTODETECT|” ), the family 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.27|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 1:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.28|AUTODETECT|” 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.2.3|AUTODETECT|” ), the sabbath 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.2.3|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 2:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.9.6|AUTODETECT|” ), and human government 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.9.6|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 9:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In and by itself it is not pleasing to God that one man should own another man. The fact, moreover, that Paul addresses slaves and their masters on a basis of equality is significant, and implies their spiritual equality before God.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 The Roman world was full of slaves. It has been estimated that in Rome itself at one time about a third of the inhabitants belonged to this social class. They had become slaves as prisoners of war, or as convicts, or through debt, kidnaping, purchase, or birth from slave-parents.) Now Paul did not recommend outright revolt by the slaves against their masters. On the contrary, he took the social structure as he found it and endeavored by peaceful means to change it into its very opposite. His rule, in summary, amounted to this, Let the slave wholeheartedly obey his master, and let the master be kind to his slave. Thus the ill-will, dishonesty, and laziness of the slave would be replaced by willing service, integrity, and industry; the cruelty and brutality of the master, by considerateness and love. And a new and gloriously transformed society would replace the old.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.5-49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” The Pauline material dealing with this subject is found mainly in the following passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.5-49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:5 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.22-51.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.22-51.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:22 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.1|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.18-60.2.25|AUTODETECT|” . With this should be compared what Peter says in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.18-60.2.25|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:18 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.26|AUTODETECT|” . Of these five little paragraphs only the first two mention the reciprocal duties of slaves and their masters. One of the reasons why more attention is paid to the slaves than to the masters could well be that among those addressed there were many more of the former than of the latter 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.26|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The probable reason why in Colossians the apostle devotes far more attention to a. slaves and their masters than to b. wives and their husbands, and children and their fathers (combined) has been pointed out in the Introduction IV A 4 (Onesimus and his master Philemon).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.29|AUTODETECT|” Now when Paul instructs the slaves to obey their masters in all things, he probably means, not only in matters pleasant and agreeable but also in matters unpleasant and disagreeable. He cannot have meant, in absolutely all things 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.29|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.10|AUTODETECT|” ). As Paul says elsewhere, by means of this obedience they would adorn the doctrine of God our Savior 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.10|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The expression those who according to the flesh that is, those who as concerns earthly relationships��153�� are your masters implies, Your real Master is in heaven, a thought on which Paul will expand presently.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.29.17|AUTODETECT|” Now this obedience must be not with eye-service as men-pleasers but with singleness of heart, fearing the Lord. They must not obey simply to catch the eye of their master for selfish purposes. Instead of striving to please men, with the ulterior motive of seeking profit for themselves, they should with singleness of heart, that is, with an undivided mind, hence, with sincerity and uprightness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.29.17|AUTODETECT|” I Chron. 29:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), render service to their earthly masters, and in so doing show reverence for their Lord.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 23, 24. Whatever you do (cf. with verse 17), put your soul into the work , as for the Lord and not for men & In spirit people cease to be slaves as soon as they begin to work for the Lord, and no longer in the first place for men. This was, accordingly, the most helpful advice anyone could ever have given a slave. Moreover, by means of his wholehearted cooperation with his master, rendering obedience to him in every way, and doing this while his master was fully aware of the fact that the service was being rendered by a Christian, the slave was promoting the cause and honor of his Lord. The master would begin to think, If the Christian religion does this for slaves, it must be wonderful. Paul continues, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the recompense, namely, the inheritance. Even though from his earthly master the slave may receive far less than he should, yet from his heavenly Lord he will receive the full amount which by God s grace has been allotted to him.��154��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Though salvation is entirely by grace and definitely not of works 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Titus 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.10|AUTODETECT|” ), yet this gracious recompense of eternal life will be given according to works 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.10|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.12|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.14|AUTODETECT|” ; then also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.14|AUTODETECT|” Eccl. 12:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.10-46.3.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.10-46.3.15|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 3:10 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.5|AUTODETECT|” 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.7|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.21.3|AUTODETECT|” ). The recompense is, moreover, the inheritance, probably implying the following ideas: a. it is a gift (a person does not earn an inheritance), b. it is inalienable 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.21.3|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 21:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.15|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 9:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.1.27|AUTODETECT|” ), c. it was willed to the person who receives it, and in that sense, is therefore his by right 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.1.27|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 1:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.16|AUTODETECT|” ); and it implies the death of the testator 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.16|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 9:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.15.3|AUTODETECT|” Now slaves, as a rule, are not heirs 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.15.3|AUTODETECT|” Genesis 15:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.15-45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.15-45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:15 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.7|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.18|AUTODETECT|” ). But the slaves to whom Paul is here referring do inherit, for their Master is Christ: (It is) the Lord Christ (whom) you are serving.��155�� Let them therefore always live as under the eye of their Lord! For the expression the Lord Christ see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . These are the only two occurrences in the New Testament. The anointed Lord is the slave s employer. What a privilege and honor!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.6.8|AUTODETECT|” 25. Paul continues, For, implying, perhaps, You should obey these instructions, for the wrong-doer will receive (the consequences of) what he has wrongly done. And there is no partiality. According to Ridderbos this has reference solely to the master of the slave. It means that even though the slave may at times have to suffer an injustice from the hand of his master, that master will not be left unpunished (op. cit., p. 230). Lenski, on the other hand, refers it solely to the slave, The wrong done remains on the slave s back, and he will carry it to judgment.

He points out that masters are not mentioned until later (op. cit., p. 185). Lightfoot s opinion differs from both. Says he, It seems best to suppose that both are included (op. cit., p. 229). I believe that this last position is the right one. My reason is that an almost exactly parallel idea is expressed in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.25|AUTODETECT|” , only now with respect to the right-doer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.25|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.25|AUTODETECT|” ), in a context in which it is definitely mentioned that the statement concerns both bond and free. The sentence in Ephesians is as follows, & knowing that whatever good anyone does, he will receive the same again from the Lord, whether he be a slave or free. Says Lightfoot, commenting on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.25|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.1|AUTODETECT|” , The warning is suggested by the case of the slave, but it is extended [in the next verse, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ] to the case of the master. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.7|AUTODETECT|” If the slave fails to heed the admonitions that have been issued, he will reap what he has sown. No one in the church of Colosse must begin to think that since the apostle has dealt so kindly with Onesimus he also approves of what the latter did to his master. The rule 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.7|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.19.15|AUTODETECT|” ) is universal. It applies to every slave, no matter who he is. And it applies even to every master. With God there is no partiality 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.19.15|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 19:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Mal. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.34|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.10.34|AUTODETECT|” Acts 10:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.1|AUTODETECT|” James 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); literally no acceptance of face .��156��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5-40.8.13|AUTODETECT|” 4:1. By an easy transition the final admonition belonging to this table of domestic duties follows: Masters,��157�� render to your slaves that which is fair and square, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. More literally translated, the first part would read, Masters, that which is just and that which is fair,��158�� to the slaves grant. The masters must remember that they, too, have a Master. The commended centurion understood this 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.5-40.8.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:5 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.23-40.18.35|AUTODETECT|” , see especially verse 9). The unmerciful servant of the parable related in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.23-40.18.35|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:23 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” did not. Let the masters then realize that just as their slaves are accountable to them, so they, in turn, will have to answer to the Master in heaven. If they understand this, they will not treat their slaves harshly. They will forbear threatening 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.12|AUTODETECT|” ), and will, instead, show the same consideration to their servants as they themselves expect to receive from the One who exercises authority over them. What we have here, therefore, is an application of the Golden Rule 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 7:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) to the master-slave relationship.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The summary of admonitions addressed to separate groups ends, accordingly, with the mention of the all-sufficient, pre-eminent Master, even the Lord Christ (cf. 4:1 and 3:24), for it is he who is the source of the believers life, the One who is ever ready to enable every believer, to whatever group he belongs, to live to the glory of God.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.18-51.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Summary of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.18-51.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Colossians 3:18 4:1) 1 3 2 8 0 0 The all-sufficient Christ is also the source of life for household groups. They, too, must draw their inspiration from him, for it is from him that they derive power to do what is right and proper, the purpose to do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, and the pattern of obedience.) In the present paragraph wives are told to be submissive to their husbands; husbands to love their wives; next, children, to obey their parents; fathers, to be kind to their children; and finally, slaves to obey their masters, not with eye-service as men-pleasers but with singleness of heart, fearing the Lord ; and masters, to render to their slaves what is fair and square, remembering that they (these masters), too, have a Master in heaven.) Because of their reciprocal character admonitions being addressed not only to wives but also to their husbands, not only to children but also to their fathers, not only to slaves but also to their masters these exhortations are eminently fair. That the counsel given in each case is fair also appears from its content. Wives are told to do that which accords with the manner in which they were created. Children, too, are not told to do whatever they please which would be cruel advice but to obey those who love them most and who are best qualified to judge what is best for them. Slaves are shown the only road to true, spiritual freedom, namely, to remember, in the midst of all their toil that they are really working for the Lord. The same holds with respect to the other classes mentioned: husbands, fathers, and masters.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.29|AUTODETECT|” These admonitions were evidently addressed to household groups of believers. What happens when either the wife or the husband or the master is not a believer? What is the rule in such a case for, respectively, the husband or the wife or the slave? Scripture has not left us in the dark on this question. See the following passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.29|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.12-46.7.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.12-46.7.16|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 7:12 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.1|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.9|AUTODETECT|” (contrast verse 2); ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.18-60.2.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.18-60.2.21|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:18 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.1|AUTODETECT|” 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.3.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 3 2 8 0 0 ) ) 112 In verse 2 the word-order of the original can be retained without any difficulty. In verse 1, because of the modifier where Christ is, the emphasis of the original can be best retained by means of italics.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.19|AUTODETECT|” 113 For the verb ������ see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.5|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.5|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.16|AUTODETECT|” 12:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.9|AUTODETECT|” 114 Though the external evidence for Q��� is at least equally strong as for !���, the latter may, nevertheless, be correct. It is not unusual for Paul, a deeply emotional writer, who writes about truths he has himself experienced or himself holds dear, to change from the second to the first person 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.9|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.6|AUTODETECT|” with 1:13; 2:13a with 2:13b; and see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 115 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.22|AUTODETECT|” In the New Testament the verb ������� occurs with great frequency in the writings of John (Gospel, First Epistle, Revelation) and of Paul. For a classification of its meanings in John s Gospel and First Epistle see N.T.C. on the Gospel of John, Vol. II, p. 476, footnote 294. Apart from its occurrences in John and Paul it is found only in the following New Testament passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.12|AUTODETECT|” 16:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.16.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.8|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 9:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.20|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.5.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.5.4|AUTODETECT|” 5:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . In the letters of Paul the word is used 22 times, as follows:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.14|AUTODETECT|” a. in connection with the display of glory in the words and works of Jesus at his first coming 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.14|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.10|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ), and the life of Jesus manifested in believers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.3|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.10|AUTODETECT|” 4:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.26|AUTODETECT|” b. in connection with the disclosure and realization of the mystery of God in the fulness of time 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.26|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.26|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; and cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Titus 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 manifested his word ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.4|AUTODETECT|” c. in connection with the display of glory of Christ at his second coming 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.4|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.4|AUTODETECT|” a), in which glorious display believers share 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.4|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.5|AUTODETECT|” b), and at which time the works and motives of men will be publicly laid bare 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.5|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.10|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.19|AUTODETECT|” d. in connection with the divine attributes made known to men 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.19|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.21|AUTODETECT|” 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.11|AUTODETECT|” e. in a more general sense, in connection with anything else that is hidden or dark and is brought to light or made visible or plain 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.11|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.7.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.7.12|AUTODETECT|” 7:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.6|AUTODETECT|” 11:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.13|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.4|AUTODETECT|” twice; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 116 Though the reading without Q��� deserves the preference, your is clearly implied.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.11|AUTODETECT|” 117 Put to death is the proper translation here, not Reckon as dead. The command Put to death of verse 5 does not have exactly the same meaning as Consider yourselves to be dead 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.12|AUTODETECT|” ). And the passive ������������ in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.12|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.19|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” ) does not change the fact that the active ��������� as used here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” , means put to death; for, (a) the active meaning intended here is clearly synonymous with lay aside in verse 8, which is not a matter solely of mental reflection or consideration (reckoning) but of voluntary, strenuous effort and exertion; and (b) the real parallel of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.11|AUTODETECT|” is not so much ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.13|AUTODETECT|” as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.13|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” , though the verb used there in the original is not the one used here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 but ���������. Hence, I cannot agree here with Bruce (op. cit., p. 267) when he says, Put to death, or, as we might put it, reckon as dead. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 118 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.12|AUTODETECT|” Thus Lightfoot (op. cit., p. 211) puts a heavy stop after the word earth. He then treats the vices ( immorality, impurity, etc.) as prospective accusatives, which should be governed by some such word as lay aside. Moule (op. cit., p. 116) says This may well be right. But there is not any need for such a forced reconstruction. Had Paul meant to imply the verb lay aside he would in all probability have expressed it, as he does in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.12|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Similarly objectionable is Charles Masson s solution (Commentaire du Nouveau Testament on this passage). Completely out of line with the context he views members as referring to church-members, and as a vocative, so that the meaning would be, You, members of Christ s body, must therefore, etc.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.20|AUTODETECT|” Finally, there is Lenski s view (op. cit., p. 157), according to which the words fornication [= immorality], uncleanness, etc., are adverbial accusatives of specification, and must be rendered, as to fornication, etc. So construed the translation becomes needlessly difficult, and the construction lacks clarity. The idea, moreover, that since the imperative ��������� is an aorist it must refer to one fell blow by which the members are struck dead, cannot be substantiated. The aorist does not always nor necessarily refer to one and only one deed. In any mood it denotes one fact or one idea, which in actual historical realization may at times be spread over a lengthy period of time 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.2.20|AUTODETECT|” John 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 in the original). It summarizes!) 1 4 2 8 0 0 119 See M. Burrows, The Dead Sea Scrolls, pp. 375, 386, 387.) 120 Not all agree. Thus Lenski sees in the number five the half of completeness expressed by ten & five is also secular, these are vices (op. cit., pp. 157, 158). But even when it is granted that in certain types of literature the number five might have a symbolical significance, it is very doubtful whether such a meaning can be ascribed to it in Colossians. Besides, though it is true that verse 8 (as well as verse 5) lists five vices, verse 9 adds another to the list, making six in all, or eleven as the sum of both lists. It is therefore better to refrain from dubious numerology.) 121 On the word ������� see N.T.C. on I and II Timothy and Titus, pp. 271, 272, footnote 147.) N.T.C.

W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.6|AUTODETECT|” 122 Although the textual support for the additional phrase upon the sons of disobedience is not weak, the context pleads against its insertion. It is probably an interpolation from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.6|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.6|AUTODETECT|” . Its inclusion here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.10|AUTODETECT|” leads to the rendering among whom at the beginning of verse 7, and to the strange conclusion that Paul rebukes the Colossians for having walked among the sons of disobedience, an inference which would be contrary to his own teaching 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.10|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 5:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.15|AUTODETECT|” ) as well as the Lord s 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.15|AUTODETECT|” John 17:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.13|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 123 See C. Trench, Synonyms of the New Testament, par. xxxvii. Also N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. I, p. 151.) 124 The Greek word used is blasphemy. But in Greek this word has a somewhat broader meaning than in English. While in our language it refers to abusive language with respect to God or things religious, that is, to defiant irreverence, in the original it refers to insults directed either against God or against men.

In the present instance, as the context indicates, the latter is clearly meant: scornful and insolent language directed against a neighbor, slander, defamation, detraction.) 125 Oepke (Th.W.N.T., Vol. II, p. 319) and Lightfoot (op. cit., pp. 214, 215) ascribe an imperative sense to the participles putting off and putting on. However, (1) in this very letter (2:11) the apostle has already mentioned the putting off of the body of the flesh as something pertaining to the past, an accomplished fact; and (2) the immediate context (3:2, 3) appears to be a close parallel to 3:8, 9. Both mean, Do this, for you have already done that. Do in practice what you have already done in principle. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.10|AUTODETECT|” 126 Though it is true that basically the adjective ���� as used here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.24|AUTODETECT|” means new as to time (new versus old), while ������ as found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.24|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 indicates new as to quality (fresh versus worn out), this distinction cannot be pressed here, for the idea of freshness and vigor which might be lacking in the adjective ���� is supplied by the participle �������������.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.5|AUTODETECT|” 127 Note chiastic arrangement here, very frequent with Paul. The first term, Greek, corresponds with the fourth, uncircumcision; the second, Jew, with the third, circumcision. See on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.28.0|AUTODETECT|” 128 Lightfoot (op. cit., p. 219) states that the terror inspired by these invaders has found expression in the prophets. He then refers to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.28.0|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.1.13|AUTODETECT|” [38?] and 39, and to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.1.13|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.38.0|AUTODETECT|” ff. and 6:1 ff. Others, too, have identified the Scythians with Gog and Magog of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.38.0|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.1.27|AUTODETECT|” and 39. Thus Josephus states, Magog founded those that from him were called Magogites, but who are by the Greeks called Scythians (Antiquities of the Jews I.vi.l). And see J. F. McCurdy s article Gog and Magog in The New Schaff-Herzog Religious Encyclopedia, Vol. V, pp. 14, 15. Close exegetical study of the Jeremiah and Ezekiel passages has convinced several exegetes, however, that this identification is questionable. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.1.27|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 1:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.11|AUTODETECT|” LXX inserts Scythopolis as the equivalent of Beth-shean. (Cf. Judith 3:10; II Macc. 12:29.) It is rather commonly supposed, therefore, that a company of Scythians, after their invasion of Palestine, established residence here, and that from this circumstance the place was called City of the Scythians. For the rest, the only undisputed reference to the Scythians in Scripture is the present passage, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.11|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.28|AUTODETECT|” 129 The conjunction and in Christ (is) all and in all shows that both parts of the phrase must be given recognition (Moule, op. cit., p. 122). Hence, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.28|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.23|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 are not really parallel.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 130 For a discussion of the word used in the original see N.T.C. on Philippians, p. 58, footnote 39.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.1.2|AUTODETECT|” 131 Of course, this is true only if the wife of whoredom, namely, Gomer 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Hos. 1:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.1.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.1.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.3.1-28.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ), is to be identified with the adulteress mentioned in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.3.1-28.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Hos. 3:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.14|AUTODETECT|” 132 Here again a form of the verb ��������� is used, as in 2:13. It stresses the full and gracious character of forgiveness. The noun �����, used in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.7|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.103.12|AUTODETECT|” , (cf. the verb �����, let go, send away) places greater stress on the thought that the sin is completely dismissed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.103.12|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 103:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.32|AUTODETECT|” 133 Textual variants here are God, God in Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.32|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.13|AUTODETECT|” ), and Christ. The textual support for the reading the Lord is, however, clearly the strongest. On the basis of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.13|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.32|AUTODETECT|” and 2:13 (see the explanation of these passages) the reference is to God rather than to Christ, though the difference is minor. When God forgives he does so in Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.32|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.35|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.35|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 134 Basically the meaning of ��������� is let it be umpire. Since the umpire s decision is very important, it is easy to see how the meaning let it rule arose. See also on 2:18, footnote 97.) 135 Or in with most of the English translations. The immediately succeeding context would seem somewhat to favor the rendering among, however. Thus also N.E.B., Bruce, Ridderbos. Lightfoot favors in. The difference is not very important, for only when the word dwells within the hearts will it dwell among the people.) N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.28|AUTODETECT|” 136 For me the fact that in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.28|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , in an almost identical clause, the phrase in all wisdom modifies teaching and admonishing shows that it should be so construed here also, and not (with Lightfoot) attached to the preceding clause.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.28|AUTODETECT|” 137 Not themselves. The pronoun ������ is not only reflexive but can also be reciprocal. See L.N.T. (A. and G.), p. 211. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.28|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” the thought is similar: admonishing every man and teaching every man, not teaching themselves. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . So also in the Colossian context, 3:13 can hardly be rendered forgiving themselves. This is my answer to Lenski s contrary assertion (op. cit., p. 177), though in 3:13 he, too, renders the pronoun: each other. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” 138 As to the construction there are two main possibilities: (1) Construe by means of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with the words that precede. Paul would then be saying, teaching and admonishing one another by means of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. This is favored by A.V., A.R.V. (both the old and the new), Moffatt s New Testament Translation, Berkeley Version, and by the commentators Bruce, Lenski, Lightfoot, etc. (2) Link the phrase with the words that follow (see my translation). With minor variations in translation this alternative, which is in agreement with N.N. s punctuation, is accepted by R.S.V., Amplified New Testament, Dutch Bible (Nieuwe Vertaling), Beare (in The Interpreter s Bible), Ridderbos, etc. I agree with the last-mentioned author when in opposing theory (1) he states, The idea that this mutual teaching and admonishing must be carried out by means of song seems rather unnatural to us (op. cit., p. 222). I might add that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , to which the supporters of theory (1) appeal, is, in my estimation, hardly sufficient proof. It is one thing to speak to one another in song. It is something else again to say that teaching and admonishing must be done by means of song.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.30|AUTODETECT|” 139 Whether � �� ������ or � ������ is the best reading is not certain. Each has strong textual support. On the basis of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.30|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 10:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , and in line with the immediate context (see verses 15 and 17) the most probable meaning here would seem to be thankfully or in a thankful spirit, rather than a. with grace in your hearts, or b. charmingly. ) 1 6 2 8 0 0 140 See also Trench, op. cit., par. LXXVIII.) 141 That Paul s teaching with respect to this subject was given this wide application in the early church is clear from such references as the following: Clement of Alexandria, The Instructor II.4; Tertullian, Apology, ch. 39; To His Wife II.8.) 142 With respect to the wording of the original two points are in order: ��� should in all probability be viewed as a nominative absolute, replaced later by the accusative ����� considered as the object of an implied verb. The implied verb is �������, viewed as a present imperative.) 143 For proof see N.T.C. on Philippians, p. 117, footnote 98.) 144 See Seneca, Epistles XV.2; Th.W.N.T., pp. 949 959; 974 978; and Stobaeus, Anthologies IV.) 145 For the status of woman for many centuries under Islam see S. M. Zwemer, Across the World of Islam, chapters V and VI, especially p. 135. For her status outside Christendom in general see J.

S. Dennis, Christian Missions and Social Progress (3 volumes), especially Vol. I, pp. 104 125. Credit for more recent progress in her status must be given, at least in part, to the influence of Christianity.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.22|AUTODETECT|” 146 The verb used is a form of �����. Paul uses ����� only twice 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.22|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Titus 3:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The verb ����� is pushing out the verb �����, taking over its functions and (at least in the present case) retaining its own as well. Full, Christian love is what is here meant, a love which sublimates all other. On the relation between the two verbs see N.T.C. on the Gospel according to John, Vol. II, pp. 494 501, footnote 306.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 147 Lenski is right when he states, This negative [do not be harsh toward them] is on the order of a litotes: ever be considerate toward them & (op. cit., p. 182).) 148 The reading to the Lord has slight support.) 149 Today in civilized (?) countries, on parents! Or on society, the environment. Do these deserve all the blame?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.23|AUTODETECT|” 150 The possibility that the word fathers has here the meaning parents must be granted 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.23|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). However, the fact that in the preceding verse the more usual word for parents is used would rather seem to indicate that in the present passage fathers means just that. Though the responsibility for the education of the children rests on both parents, and father will consult mother, the probability is that the father is here regarded as the head of the family.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.2|AUTODETECT|” 151 The verb is ��������, meaning stir up. One can stir up for good 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.2|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 9:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.21|AUTODETECT|” ) or for evil 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.4|AUTODETECT|” ). In the latter case the resultant meaning is exasperate, embitter. In the present passage there is also considerable textual support for the synonym �����������, provoke to anger. There is very little difference in meaning. Perhaps the latter verb was inserted here from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 2 8 0 0 152 For a 15-point discussion of Principles and Methods of Education in Israel see N.T.C. on I and II Timothy and Titus, pp. 296 301.) 153 On the various meanings of the word flesh see N.T.C. on Philippians, p. 77, footnote 55. Meaning c. is indicated here.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.12|AUTODETECT|” 154 The word rendered recompense is acc. of ����������, in the New Testament occurring only in this one passage. Here ��� expresses the idea of full, complete return. The noun ��������� means requital, used in a favorable sense in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.12|AUTODETECT|” Luke 14:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.9|AUTODETECT|” ; unfavorably in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.9|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.14|AUTODETECT|” . The cognate verb �����������, used in favorable sense 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.14|AUTODETECT|” Luke 14:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.35|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.35|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.9|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.19|AUTODETECT|” ), in unfavorable sense 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.19|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.6|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.30|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 10:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), has the root-meaning I render a full return for something received. See my doctoral dissertation The Meaning of the Preposition ��� in the New Testament, in the library of Princeton Seminary, Princeton, N.J., pp. 83, 84.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.31|AUTODETECT|” 155 Some prefer to render this as an imperative, Serve the Lord Christ, giving as a reason that otherwise the word for which introduces verse 25 has no meaning. However, whether one renders the verb as an imperative or as an indicative, in either case something has to be supplied in order to obtain a reasonable thought-connection. This is a case of abbreviated expression. See N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.31|AUTODETECT|” John 5:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Besides, the difference is rather insignificant, as, in either case, the point is that Paul wants these slaves ever to bear in mind that they are really serving not first of all and most of all an earthly but a heavenly Master, and that this should be their attitude. The preceding knowing that would seem to point to the indicative here. Thus also A.V., A.R.V. (old and new), R.S.V., Berkeley.) 1 6 2 8 0 0 156 Moule has an interesting paragraph on the Greek word rendered partiality (op. cit., p. 132).) 157 In the original the vocatives wives, husbands, children, fathers, slaves, masters (3:18 4:1) are all preceded by the generic article, a not uncommon usage (Gram.N.T., p. 757).) 158 It is not true that 0����� must always be rendered that which is equal or equality. There are instances of the use of this word in the sense of fairness also in other authors (see M.M., p. 307). Used in connection with the word justice it is natural to treat the two concepts as synonyms and to use the English idiom fair and square (or something similar) in the translation.) ) ) )

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