Colossians 3:12

KJV

¶ Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

KJV (with Strong's)

Put on {G1746} therefore {G3767}, as {G5613} the elect {G1588} of God {G2316}, holy {G40} and {G2532} beloved {G25}, bowels {G4698} of mercies {G3628}, kindness {G5544}, humbleness of mind {G5012}, meekness {G4236}, longsuffering {G3115};

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with feelings of compassion and with kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

American Standard Version

Put on therefore, as God’s elect, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, longsuffering;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Colossians 3:12 serves as a profound apostolic exhortation, calling believers to actively embody the virtues that reflect their new identity in Christ. Following the command to "put off" the old sinful nature, Paul instructs the Colossian church to "put on" a new spiritual wardrobe of Christ-like character, emphasizing that these attributes flow naturally from their divinely chosen, consecrated, and cherished status as God's beloved people. The verse details a foundational list of essential Christian graces—deep compassion, benevolence, humility, gentle strength, and patient endurance—which are indispensable for fostering healthy relationships within the community of faith and for bearing witness to the transforming power of the Gospel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Colossians 3:12 stands as a pivotal verse within a larger theological and ethical discourse. Paul begins chapter 3 with a call for believers to fix their minds on heavenly realities, having been raised with Christ ([Colossians 3:1-2](/colossians/3-1-2 "Colossians 3:1-2 - Set Your Minds on Things Above")). He then contrasts the "old man" (the former way of life characterized by sin) with the "new man" (the transformed life in Christ). Verses 5-9 provide a stark list of vices—such as sexual immorality, impurity, covetousness, anger, malice, and lying—that believers are commanded to "mortify" or "put off." Immediately preceding our verse, [Colossians 3:10-11](/colossians/3-10-11 "Colossians 3:10-11 - Putting on the New Man") declares that believers have "put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him," emphasizing a spiritual renewal that transcends ethnic or social distinctions. Thus, [Colossians 3:12](/colossians/3-12 "Colossians 3:12 - Put On Compassion and Humility") articulates the practical, tangible manifestations of this "new man," detailing the specific virtues that should adorn those who have embraced their new identity in Christ. This verse transitions into further exhortations regarding Christian conduct within the community and household, culminating in the call to let the peace of God rule in their hearts ([Colossians 3:15](/colossians/3-15 "Colossians 3:15 - Let the Peace of God Rule")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Colossae was located in Phrygia, a region in Asia Minor, and was influenced by a syncretistic blend of Hellenistic culture, Jewish mysticism, and nascent Gnostic-like philosophies. These false teachings, which Paul addresses throughout the letter, often emphasized asceticism, ritualistic observances, and a hierarchical understanding of spiritual knowledge, sometimes leading to spiritual pride or a neglect of ethical living. In this environment, Paul's emphasis on genuine, internal transformation expressed through practical virtues was counter-cultural. The Greco-Roman world often valued virtues like honor, courage, and self-sufficiency, but humility (tapeinophrosýnē) was generally viewed as a weakness or servility. Paul's radical redefinition of virtue, placing "humbleness of mind" at the forefront, challenged prevailing societal norms. Furthermore, the ancient understanding of the "bowels" (splánchnon) as the seat of deep emotion and compassion, rather than just physical organs, provides insight into the profound, visceral nature of the "mercies" Paul calls for. This cultural understanding underscores the depth of the inner transformation expected of believers.
* **Key Themes:** [Colossians 3:12](/colossians/3-12 "Colossians 3:12 - The Virtues of the Elect") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Colossians. Firstly, it reinforces the theme of **Identity in Christ**, establishing that believers are "elect of God, holy and beloved." This chosen status is not merely a theological concept but the very foundation for their ethical conduct. Secondly, the verse highlights **Spiritual Transformation and Practical Ethics**. Paul moves from theological truth (union with Christ) to its practical outworking in daily life, demonstrating that genuine faith results in tangible changes in character and behavior. The "putting on" metaphor vividly illustrates this active, ongoing process of sanctification. Thirdly, the list of virtues emphasizes **Community and Relationships**. These qualities—mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, and longsuffering—are inherently relational, crucial for fostering peace, unity, and mutual edification within the Christian community, contrasting sharply with the divisive and arrogant tendencies of the false teachers. This ethical instruction is a direct consequence of the believer's new life "hidden with Christ in God" ([Colossians 3:3](/colossians/3-3 "Colossians 3:3 - Your Life is Hidden with Christ")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **endýō (Greek, _endýō'_):** From ἐν and δύνω; to invest with clothing (literally or figuratively). In this context, "put on" is a powerful **metaphor** for actively adopting and displaying these virtues as one would don a garment. It implies an intentional, daily choice to clothe oneself in Christ-like character, making these qualities visible to the world. This is not merely an internal disposition but an outward manifestation.
* **eklektós (Greek, _eklektós'_):** From ἐκλέγομαι; select; by implication, favorite. This term, translated "elect," signifies that believers are chosen, specially selected, and favored by God. It speaks to their divine calling and unique status, emphasizing that the virtues are not a means to earn election but a natural outflow of having been divinely chosen and set apart. It grounds their ethical responsibilities in their theological identity.
* **splánchnon (Greek, _splánchnon'_):** Probably strengthened from σπλήν (the "spleen"); an intestine (plural); figuratively, pity or sympathy. Translated as "bowels," this word refers to the inner organs, which in ancient thought were considered the seat of deep emotions, particularly compassion and tender affection. Therefore, "bowels of mercies" signifies a profound, visceral, and heartfelt compassion that originates from the deepest core of one's being, not just a superficial sentiment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Put on therefore":** This imperative command, introduced by "therefore" (oûn), signifies a logical consequence of the preceding theological truths (union with Christ, putting off the old man, putting on the new man). It calls for an active, volitional choice to adopt and display the virtues that follow, much like one would consciously dress themselves. It's an ongoing process, not a one-time event.
* **"as the elect of God, holy and beloved":** This phrase establishes the foundational identity and motivation for the subsequent virtues. "Elect of God" (eklektós theós) highlights divine choice and special favor. "Holy" (hágios) means set apart, consecrated for God's purposes. "Beloved" (agapáō) underscores God's deep, unconditional love for them. These are not titles to be earned, but a status already bestowed, from which the virtues flow. Believers are called to live *in accordance with* who God has already declared them to be.
* **"bowels of mercies":** This vivid phrase translates the Greek _splánchna oiktirmoú_. As noted in Key Word Analysis, "bowels" (splánchnon) refers to the innermost parts, the seat of deep emotions. "Mercies" (oiktirmós) denotes pity or compassion. Together, it conveys a profound, visceral, and tender compassion, a heartfelt sympathy that moves one to action, reflecting God's own deep compassion for humanity.
* **"kindness":** The Greek _chrēstótēs_ refers to moral excellence, goodness, or benevolence. It describes a gentle, gracious, and helpful disposition towards others, demonstrating a practical and pleasant character that seeks the well-being of those around them.
* **"humbleness of mind":** The Greek _tapeinophrosýnē_ signifies modesty, lowliness of spirit, or humility. This virtue was often disdained in the Greco-Roman world but is central to Christian ethics. It involves a realistic and modest estimation of oneself, free from arrogance or pride, and a willingness to serve others.
* **"meekness":** The Greek _praiótēs_ (or _praÿtēs_) denotes gentleness or mildness, often misunderstood as weakness. However, biblical meekness is strength under control, a humble and patient submission to God's will, and a gentle, considerate demeanor towards others, even in the face of provocation. It is power restrained, not power absent.
* **"longsuffering":** The Greek _makrothymía_ means "long-tempered" or patience. It describes the ability to endure hardship, injury, or provocation over a long period without resentment, anger, or retaliation. It is the capacity to bear with the faults and weaknesses of others, reflecting God's own patience with humanity.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several potent **literary devices** in [Colossians 3:12](/colossians/3-12 "Colossians 3:12 - The Virtues of the New Man") to convey his message with impact. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, specifically the "putting on" (endýō) of virtues. This clothing imagery is a recurring motif in Paul's epistles, representing the active adoption of a new character that is visible to all, contrasting with the "putting off" of sinful behaviors mentioned earlier in the chapter. It implies an intentional, daily act of dressing oneself in qualities that align with one's new identity in Christ. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Anaphora** and **Parallelism** through its list of virtues ("bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering"). This rhythmic listing emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the transformation and the interconnectedness of these graces, creating a memorable and actionable catalogue of Christian character. Finally, the address "as the elect of God, holy and beloved" functions as a form of **Audience Address** and **Appellation**, serving not just as a descriptor but as a powerful reminder of their divine status, which undergirds and motivates the ethical commands that follow. This grounding in identity makes the exhortation deeply personal and profoundly theological.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Colossians 3:12 is a powerful articulation of practical sanctification, demonstrating how the theological reality of a believer's union with Christ translates into tangible, Christ-like character. It underscores that our identity as God's chosen, holy, and beloved people is not merely a static declaration but a dynamic call to live out the implications of that status. The virtues listed are not arbitrary moral codes but expressions of the divine nature that believers are called to participate in, reflecting the very character of God and, supremely, of Christ. This passage highlights the essential link between spiritual identity and ethical conduct, asserting that genuine transformation is evidenced by a life increasingly marked by compassion, humility, and patience. These qualities are foundational for healthy Christian community and for bearing a credible witness to the world, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel.

* [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit"): Many of the virtues listed in Colossians 3:12, such as kindness, meekness (gentleness), and longsuffering (patience), are explicitly identified as components of the "fruit of the Spirit," emphasizing their divine origin and the necessity of the Holy Spirit's work in cultivating them within believers.
* [Ephesians 4:32](/ephesians/4-32 "Ephesians 4:32 - Be Kind and Forgiving"): Paul similarly exhorts believers to "be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you," echoing the call for mercy and kindness found in Colossians and linking it directly to God's own character.
* [1 Peter 2:9](/1_peter/2-9 "1 Peter 2:9 - A Chosen Generation"): This verse reinforces the concept of believers as "a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people," aligning with Colossians' emphasis on their identity as "the elect of God, holy and beloved," and underscoring the purpose of this identity: to proclaim God's praises.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Colossians 3:12 offers a profound and practical blueprint for daily Christian living, reminding us that our spiritual identity in Christ is meant to manifest in tangible, Christ-like character. As those who are divinely chosen, set apart, and deeply loved by God, we are called to actively and intentionally "put on" these virtues as a daily discipline. This means cultivating a heart of profound compassion that feels deeply for others' struggles, extending genuine kindness in our words and actions, embracing a humble posture that recognizes our dependence on God and values others above ourselves, exercising gentle strength in our interactions, and demonstrating unwavering patience, especially when faced with provocation or difficulty. These virtues are not merely optional adornments but essential components of the "new man" that reflect God's character to a watching world. Living out this passage transforms our relationships, fosters unity within the church, and makes our witness compelling, demonstrating that the Gospel truly changes lives from the inside out.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you find it most challenging to "put on" these virtues?**
* **How does understanding your identity as "elect of God, holy and beloved" empower you to live out these commands?**
* **Which of these virtues (bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering) do you feel the Holy Spirit is prompting you to cultivate more intentionally right now, and what practical steps can you take?**

### FAQ

**Why does Paul use the phrase "bowels of mercies"?**

Answer: The phrase "bowels of mercies" (Greek: _splánchna oiktirmoú_) is a vivid and deeply meaningful expression rooted in ancient physiology and psychology. In the ancient world, the "bowels" or inner organs (like the intestines, heart, or spleen) were believed to be the seat of deep emotions, particularly strong feelings of compassion, pity, and tender affection. Therefore, "bowels of mercies" conveys a profound, visceral, and heartfelt compassion that originates from the deepest core of one's being, not just a superficial sympathy. It emphasizes a mercy that is deeply felt and moves one to action, reflecting God's own profound and tender compassion for humanity, as seen in passages like [Luke 1:78](/luke/1-78 "Luke 1:78 - Tender Mercy of God").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Colossians 3:12 finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in the person of Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential "elect of God, holy and beloved," chosen by the Father before the foundation of the world and perfectly consecrated to His will ([Isaiah 42:1](/isaiah/42-1 "Isaiah 42:1 - My Chosen Servant"); [Matthew 3:17](/matthew/3-17 "Matthew 3:17 - God's Beloved Son")). Every virtue Paul commands believers to "put on" was perfectly exemplified in Christ's earthly life. His "bowels of mercies" were evident in His deep compassion for the sick, the marginalized, and the lost, moving Him to heal, teach, and ultimately sacrifice Himself ([Matthew 9:36](/matthew/9-36 "Matthew 9:36 - Jesus' Compassion"); [Mark 6:34](/mark/6-34 "Mark 6:34 - Jesus Had Compassion")). He was the epitome of "kindness," extending grace to sinners and welcoming the outcasts ([Luke 15:1-2](/luke/15-1-2 "Luke 15:1-2 - Jesus Welcomes Sinners")). His "humbleness of mind" was profoundly demonstrated in His willingness to empty Himself, take the form of a servant, and humble Himself even to death on a cross ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility")). His "meekness" was not weakness, but strength under divine control, as He submitted to the Father's will even unto suffering ([Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Learn from Me, for I Am Meek"); [1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ Did Not Retaliate")). And His "longsuffering" was manifest in His patient endurance of opposition, betrayal, and the cross itself, bearing the sins of the world without retaliation ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love"); [Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith")). Therefore, for believers, putting on these virtues is not merely moral emulation but a participation in the very life and character of Christ, enabled by the Holy Spirit who conforms us to His image ([2 Corinthians 3:18](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformed into His Image")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Ephesians 4:32

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

Ephesians 4:2

¶ With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

1 John 4:19

We love him, because he first loved us.

2 Peter 1:5

¶ And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;

2 Peter 1:8

For if these things be in you, and abound, they make [you that ye shall] neither [be] barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Galatians 5:22

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

Galatians 5:23

Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.