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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Colossians 1:9–11. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The apostle proceeds in these verses to pray for them. He heard that they were good, and he prayed that they might be better. He was constant in this prayer: We do not cease to pray for you. It may be he could hear of them but seldom, but he constantly prayed for them. - And desire that you may be filled with the knowledge, etc. Observe what it is that he begs of God for them,
I.That they might be knowing intelligent Christians:
filled with the knowledge of his will, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. Observe,
1.The knowledge of our duty is the best knowledge. A mere empty notion of the greatest truths is insignificant. Our knowledge of the will of God must be always practical: we must know it, in order to do it.
2.Our knowledge is then a blessing indeed when it is in wisdom, when we know how to apply our general knowledge to our particular occasions, and to suit it to all emergencies.
3.Christians should endeavour to be filled with knowledge; not only to know the will of God, but to know more of it, and to increase in the knowledge of God (as it is Col 1:10), and to grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour, Pe2 3:18.
II.That their conversation might be good.
Good knowledge without a good life will not profit. Our understanding is then a spiritual understanding when we exemplify it in our way of living: That you may walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing (Col 1:10), that is, as becomes the relation we stand in to him and the profession we make of him. The agreeableness of our conversation to our religion is pleasing to God as well as to good men. We walk unto all well-pleasing when we walk in all things according to the will of God. Being fruitful in every good work. This is what we should aim at. Good words will not do without good works. We must abound in good works, and in every good work: not in some only, which are more easy, and suitable, and safe, but in all, and every instance of them. There must be a regular uniform regard to all the will of God. And the more fruitful we are in good works the more we shall increase in the knowledge of God. He who doeth his will shall know of the doctrine whether it be of God, Joh 7:17.
III.That they might be strengthened:
Strengthened with all might according to his glorious power (Col 1:11), fortified against the temptations of Satan and furnished for all their duty. It is a great comfort to us that he who undertakes to give strength to his people is a God of power and of glorious power. Where there is spiritual life there is still need of spiritual strength, strength for all the actions of the spiritual life. To be strengthened is to be furnished by the grace of God for every good work, and fortified by that grace against every evil one: it is to be enabled to do our duty, and still to hold fast our integrity. The blessed Spirit is the author of this strength; for we are strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inward man, Eph 3:16. The word of God is the means of it, by which he conveys it; and it must be fetched in by prayer. It was in answer to earnest prayer that the apostle obtained sufficient grace. In praying for spiritual strength we are not straitened in the promises, and therefore should not be straitened in our own hopes and desires. Observe,
1.He prayed that they might be strengthened with might: this seems a tautology; but he means, that they might be mightily strengthened, or strengthened with might derived from another.
2.It is with all might. It seems unreasonable that a creature should be strengthened with all might, for that is to make him almighty; but he means, with all that might which we have occasion for, to enable us to discharge our duty or preserve our innocence, that grace which is sufficient for us in all the trials of life and able to help us in time of need.
3.It is according to his glorious power. He means, according to the grace of God: but the grace of God in the hearts of believers is the power of God; and there is a glory in this power; it is an excellent and sufficient power. And the communications of strength are not according to our weakness, to whom the strength is communicated, but according to his power, from whom it is received. When God gives he gives like himself, and when he strengthens he strengthens like himself.
4.The special use of this strength was for suffering work: That you may be strengthened unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness. He prays not only that they may be supported under their troubles, but strengthened for them: the reason is there is work to be done even when we are suffering. And those who are strengthened according to his glorious power are strengthened,
(1.)To all patience. When patience hath its perfect work (Jam 1:4) then we are strengthened to all patience - when we not only bear our troubles patiently, but receive them as gifts from God, and are thankful for them. To you it is given to suffer, Phi 1:29. When we bear our troubles well, though ever so many, and the circumstances of them ever so aggravating, then we bear them with all patience. And the same reason for bearing one trouble will hold for bearing another, if it be a good reason. All patience includes all the kinds of it; not only bearing patience, but waiting patience.
(2.)This is even unto long-suffering, that is, drawn out to a great length: not only to bear trouble awhile, but to bear it as long as God pleases to continue it.
(3.)It is with joyfulness, to rejoice in tribulation, to take joyfully the spoiling of our goods, and rejoice that we are counted worthy to suffer for his name, to have joy as well as patience in the troubles of life. This we could never do by any strength of our own, but as we are strengthened by the grace of God.
Historical interpretation
Two Centuries of Reception
7 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
For there is an instruction of the perfect, of which, writing to the Colossians, he says, "We cease not to pray for you, and beseech that ye may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye may walk worthy of the Lord to all pleasing; being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might according to the glory of His power." So that, on the one hand, then, are the mysteries which were hid till the time of the apostles, and were delivered by them as they received from the Lord, and, concealed in the Old Testament, were manifested to the saints. And, on the other hand, there is "the riches of the glory of the mystery in the Gentiles," which is faith and hope in Christ; which in another place he has called the "foundation."
For it is our duty so to walk in the Lord's discipline as is "worthy," not according to the filthy concupiscences of the flesh.
"To walk," saith he, "worthily of the Lord," and "in every good work," so as to be always advancing, and nowhere standing still, and, with a metaphor, "bearing fruit and increasing in the knowledge of God," that ye might be in such measure "strengthened," according to the might of God, as is possible for man to be. "Through His power," great is the consolation.-He said not strength, but "power," which is greater: "through the power," he saith, "of His glory," because that everywhere His glory hath the power. He thus comforts him that is under reproach: and again, "To walk worthily of the Lord." He saith of the Son, that He hath the power everywhere both in heaven and in earth, because His glory reigneth everywhere. He saith not "strengthened" simply, but so, as they might be expected to be who are in the service of so strong a Master.
"In the knowledge of God." And at the same time he touches in passing upon the methods of knowledge; for this is to be in error, not to know God as one ought; or he means, so as to increase in the knowledge of God. For if he that hath not known the Son, knoweth not the Father either; justly is there need of increased knowledge: for there is no use in life without this.
"To walk worthily," he says, "of the Lord." Here he speaks of life and its works, for so he doth also everywhere: with faith he always couples conduct. "Unto all pleasing." And how, "all pleasing"? "Bearing fruit in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God." Seeing, saith he, He hath fully revealed Himself unto you, and seeing ye have received knowledge so great; do ye then show forth a conduct worthy of the faith; for this needeth elevated conduct, greater far than the old dispensation. For, he that hath known God, and been counted worthy to be God's servant, yea, rather, even His Son, see how great virtue he needeth.
"Bearing fruit," he saith: this hath reference to works. "Strengthened": this to trials. "Unto all patience and longsuffering": long-suffering towards one another, patience towards those without. For longsuffering is toward those whom we can requite, but patience toward those whom we cannot. For this reason the term patient is never applied to God, but longsuffering frequently; as this same blessed one saith other where in his writings, "Or despisest thou the riches of His goodness, and forbearance, and longsuffering?" "Unto all pleasing." Not, one while, and afterwards not so. "In all spiritual wisdom," he saith, "and understanding." For otherwise it is not possible to know His will. Although indeed they thought they had His will; but that wisdom was not spiritual. "To walk," saith he, "worthily of the Lord." For this is the way of the best life. For he that hath understood God's love to man, (and he doth understand it if he have seen the Son delivered up,) will have greater forwardness. And besides, we pray not for this alone that ye may know, but that ye may show forth your knowledge in works; for he that knows without doing, is even in the way to punishment. "To walk," he saith, that is, always, not once, but continually. As to walk is necessary for us, so also is to live rightly. And when on this subject he constantly uses the term "walk," and with reason, showing that such is the life set before us. But not of this sort is that of the world. And great too is the praise. "To walk," he saith, "worthily of the Lord," and "in every good work," so as to be always advancing, and nowhere standing still.
We are commanded to do good when it says: “Decline from evil and do good,” but we pray to do good when it says: “We cease not to pray for you, asking,” and among other things that Paul asks he mentions: “That you may walk worthy of God in all things pleasing, in every good work and good word.” As then we acknowledge the part played by the will when these commands are given, so let him acknowledge the part played by grace when these petitions are offered. .
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Summary
Colossians 1:10 encapsulates Paul's profound prayer for the believers in Colossae, outlining the essential outcomes of a life transformed by the knowledge of God's will. It describes a holistic Christian walk characterized by conduct that honors the Lord in every aspect, active participation in good works as a natural expression of faith, and continuous spiritual growth through an ever-deepening, experiential understanding of God. This verse serves as a comprehensive blueprint for living a life that is both pleasing to God and impactful in the world, fostering spiritual maturity and practical obedience.
Context
Literary Context
Colossians 1:10 is an integral part of Paul's opening prayer for the Colossian church, which begins in Colossians 1:9. Following his thanksgiving for their faith, love, and hope (Colossians 1:3-8), Paul immediately transitions into a fervent intercession for their spiritual maturity. Verse 9 expresses his desire for them to be "filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding." Verse 10 then presents the practical, ethical, and relational outworkings of such divine knowledge. It moves from internal spiritual illumination to external, tangible living, showing that true understanding of God's will inevitably leads to a transformed lifestyle. The subsequent verses (Colossians 1:11-14) continue to elaborate on the power and benefits of this Christ-centered life, emphasizing endurance, patience, and gratitude for redemption.
Historical & Cultural Context
The city of Colossae, located in Phrygia (modern-day Turkey), was a relatively minor city compared to nearby Laodicea and Hierapolis. The church there likely consisted primarily of Gentile converts, possibly founded by Epaphras (Colossians 1:7). Paul had not personally visited Colossae when he wrote this letter from prison. The primary challenge facing the Colossian believers was a syncretistic philosophy, often referred to as the "Colossian heresy," which blended elements of Judaism (e.g., dietary laws, festivals, circumcision), Gnosticism (e.g., emphasis on secret knowledge, devaluing of the material world, angel worship), and perhaps local pagan practices. This false teaching threatened to undermine the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ. Paul's emphasis in Colossians 1:10 on "increasing in the knowledge of God" and "walking worthy of the Lord" directly counters the claims of false teachers who promoted alternative paths to spiritual enlightenment or salvation.
Key Themes
Colossians 1:10 contributes significantly to several major themes found throughout the book of Colossians. Foremost is the Supremacy and Sufficiency of Christ, which is the overarching message of the letter (see Colossians 1:15-20). Paul argues that all spiritual truth and fullness are found in Christ alone, making any additional philosophical or religious systems unnecessary and dangerous. This verse also highlights the theme of Spiritual Growth and Maturity, emphasizing a continuous process of "increasing in the knowledge of God" and "being fruitful." It underscores that Christian life is not static but dynamic, moving towards greater conformity to Christ. Furthermore, the concept of "walking worthy" speaks to Ethical Living and Practical Discipleship, demonstrating that true faith is not merely intellectual assent but a transformative power that impacts daily conduct and produces "every good work." This counters the false teaching by showing that genuine spiritual life is expressed through Christ-honoring behavior, not adherence to legalistic rules or esoteric knowledge.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
An adverb meaning "appropriately" or "as becometh." It signifies living in a manner that is consistent with, or corresponds to, the high calling and identity of being a follower of the Lord. It implies a qualitative standard, suggesting that one's conduct should be in proportion to the honor and glory of the one being served.
Meaning "to be fertile" or "to bear fruit," both literally and figuratively. In this context, it refers to spiritual productivity, the tangible results of a life lived in alignment with God's will. It describes the active outworking of faith through good deeds and righteous living, much like a healthy tree naturally yields fruit.
Meaning "recognition" or "full discernment, acknowledgement." This is not merely intellectual apprehension (gnosis) but a deep, precise, and experiential knowledge of God. It implies a personal, intimate understanding that transforms one's character and actions, leading to a more profound and accurate apprehension of divine truth.
Verse Breakdown
"That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing"
This clause sets forth the overarching purpose of being filled with the knowledge of God's will. To "walk worthy" (Greek: peripatéō axíōs) implies a lifestyle and conduct that is consistent with the character and expectations of the Lord. The phrase "unto all pleasing" (Greek: eis pâs areskeía) indicates the ultimate goal: to live in a way that is entirely agreeable and acceptable to God. This isn't about human approval but divine commendation, reflecting a life lived in alignment with His desires and standards.
"being fruitful in every good work"
This phrase describes one of the primary manifestations of a worthy walk. "Being fruitful" (Greek: karpophoréō) emphasizes the active, productive nature of a Spirit-filled life. It signifies that genuine faith is not passive but expresses itself through tangible "good works" (Greek: agathós érgon). The inclusion of "every" (Greek: pâs) highlights the comprehensive scope of this fruitfulness, implying that all aspects of a believer's life should yield positive, God-honoring results. These works are not a means to salvation but a natural outflow of a transformed heart.
"and increasing in the knowledge of God;"
This final clause points to the dynamic and continuous nature of spiritual growth. "Increasing" (Greek: auxánō) suggests ongoing progress and enlargement, indicating that the knowledge of God is not a static acquisition but a lifelong pursuit. This "knowledge" (Greek: epígnōsis) is a deep, experiential, and transformative understanding of God Himself, His character, and His ways. It implies a growing intimacy and discernment that fuels the worthy walk and enables greater fruitfulness, creating a virtuous cycle of spiritual maturity.
Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in Colossians 1:10 to convey his message with depth and clarity. The verse functions as a Purpose Clause, introduced by "that ye might," clearly stating the intended outcome of being filled with the knowledge of God's will mentioned in the preceding verse. This highlights the practical, ethical implications of spiritual understanding. The imagery of "walk" (Greek: peripatéō) is a common Metaphor in Pauline epistles for one's manner of life or conduct, signifying a continuous journey or lifestyle rather than isolated acts. The phrase "being fruitful in every good work" employs a vivid Agricultural Metaphor, likening the believer to a tree that naturally produces fruit, emphasizing that good works are the organic, expected outcome of a healthy spiritual life rooted in Christ. Finally, the verse exhibits a form of Parallelism or progressive development, moving from the overarching goal of "walking worthy" to the specific manifestation of "being fruitful," and then to the foundational element of "increasing in the knowledge of God," illustrating a holistic and interconnected vision of Christian maturity.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Colossians 1:10 presents a profound theological statement on the nature of Christian discipleship, emphasizing that true spiritual growth is holistic, encompassing both internal transformation and external expression. It underscores the vital connection between knowing God's will and living a life that honors Him. This verse teaches that genuine faith is not merely intellectual assent but a dynamic, active force that produces tangible results—"every good work"—and propels believers into an ever-deepening, experiential understanding of God. It highlights God's expectation for His children to reflect His character in their daily lives, demonstrating that spiritual maturity is measured not just by what one believes, but by how one lives and grows in intimacy with the Creator.
Reflection and Application
Colossians 1:10 offers a timeless and practical framework for evaluating and pursuing spiritual maturity in the life of every believer. It challenges us to move beyond mere intellectual understanding of faith to a vibrant, active, and continually growing relationship with God. To "walk worthy" means intentionally aligning our choices, attitudes, and actions with the Lord's character and commands, seeking His pleasure above all else. This worthy walk naturally expresses itself through "every good work," reminding us that our faith must be demonstrated through tangible acts of love, service, and righteousness that benefit others and glorify God. Furthermore, the call to be "increasing in the knowledge of God" emphasizes the indispensable need for ongoing spiritual formation through diligent study of His Word, consistent prayer, and intimate communion with Him. This verse encourages a dynamic, progressive journey where deeper knowledge fuels more fruitful living, and more fruitful living leads to even greater intimacy with our Creator.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does it mean to "walk worthy of the Lord"?
To "walk worthy of the Lord" means to live a life that is consistent with the high calling and identity we have as followers of Christ. It implies conducting ourselves in a manner that reflects God's character, values, and commands, thereby bringing honor and glory to Him. This involves aligning our thoughts, words, and actions with the gospel message and the will of God, seeking to please Him in all things, as described in Colossians 1:10. It's about living out our faith authentically and consistently in every sphere of life.
Is "increasing in the knowledge of God" just about studying the Bible?
While diligent study of the Bible is a crucial component of increasing in the knowledge of God, it is not the sole means. The Greek word for "knowledge" (epígnōsis) implies a deep, experiential, and transformative understanding, not merely intellectual accumulation of facts. This growth comes through various spiritual disciplines, including prayer, worship, fellowship with other believers, obedience to God's commands, and discerning His hand in daily life circumstances. It's about developing an intimate relationship with God, where head knowledge translates into heart transformation and practical wisdom, enabling us to better understand and live out His will (see Philippians 3:10).
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Colossians 1:10 finds its ultimate fulfillment and enablement in Jesus Christ. He is the perfect embodiment of one who "walked worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing," for He always did the will of His Father (see John 8:29). Jesus was supremely "fruitful in every good work," His life a continuous outpouring of divine love, healing, teaching, and ultimately, the redemptive work on the cross (as seen in Acts 10:38). Furthermore, Christ Himself is the very "knowledge of God" in human form; to know Him is to know the Father (as Jesus declares in John 14:7). Through His atoning sacrifice, believers are reconciled to God, empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit to live the very life described in this verse. Our ability to "walk worthy," "be fruitful," and "increase in the knowledge of God" is not by human effort alone, but by abiding in Christ, who is our life, our wisdom, and our strength (see Colossians 3:3-4 and John 15:4-5). He is both the example and the enabler of this comprehensive Christian walk.