Colossians 3:15

KJV

And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} let {G1018} the peace {G1515} of God {G2316} rule {G1018} in {G1722} your {G5216} hearts {G2588}, to {G1519} the which {G3739} also {G2532} ye are called {G2564} in {G1722} one {G1520} body {G4983}; and {G2532} be ye {G1096} thankful {G2170}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and let the shalom which comes from the Messiah be your heart’s decision-maker, for this is why you were called to be part of a single Body.

And be thankful —

Berean Standard Bible

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful.

American Standard Version

And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to the which also ye were called in one body; and be ye thankful.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Colossians 3:15 offers a profound exhortation for believers to allow the divine peace of God to govern their inner lives, acting as the ultimate arbiter in their hearts. This peace is intrinsically linked to their calling as members of the unified body of Christ, underscoring the importance of harmony and mutual understanding within the community. The verse concludes with a direct command to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness, presenting gratitude as both a natural outflow of a peace-filled heart and an essential discipline for Christian living.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Colossians 3:15 is situated within the practical, ethical section of Paul's letter to the Colossians, following his theological exposition of Christ's supremacy and the believer's new identity in Him. Chapters 1-2 establish the foundational truth that believers have been raised with Christ and are complete in Him, warning against false philosophies and legalistic practices. Chapter 3 then transitions into the practical outworking of this new life, urging believers to "put off" the old self with its sinful behaviors (e.g., anger, malice, slander, lying, as seen in [Colossians 3:8-9](/colossians/3-8-9 "Colossians 3:8-9 - Putting off the old self")) and "put on" the new self, characterized by virtues such as compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience ([Colossians 3:12](/colossians/3-12 "Colossians 3:12 - Virtues of the new self")). The culmination of these virtues is love, which "binds everything together in perfect harmony" ([Colossians 3:14](/colossians/3-14 "Colossians 3:14 - Love, the bond of perfection")). Colossians 3:15 then introduces peace and thankfulness as essential elements that sustain this new life and foster unity within the Christian community, setting the stage for further instructions on household relationships and work ethics in the subsequent verses.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The church in Colossae faced unique challenges from a syncretistic philosophy, often referred to as the "Colossian heresy." This teaching combined elements of Jewish legalism (e.g., dietary laws, observance of festivals), Gnostic-like mysticism (e.g., worship of angels, secret knowledge), and asceticism (e.g., severe self-denial). This blend of ideas threatened to undermine the sufficiency and supremacy of Christ. Paul's emphasis on the "peace of God" and "one body" directly counters the divisive and prideful tendencies that such false teachings could engender. In a society where social hierarchies and divisions were prevalent, the concept of being "called in one body" would have been revolutionary, emphasizing the radical equality and unity found in Christ, transcending ethnic, social, or gender distinctions, as highlighted in [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Unity in Christ"). The call to thankfulness also served as an antidote to the anxiety and spiritual emptiness that false teachings often produced, reorienting believers to God's goodness and provision in Christ.

* **Key Themes:** Colossians 3:15 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the letter. Firstly, it reinforces the theme of **Christian Living and Transformation**, detailing the practical implications of a life "hidden with Christ in God" ([Colossians 3:3](/colossians/3-3 "Colossians 3:3 - Life hidden with Christ")). The peace of God is presented not merely as a feeling but as an active principle guiding transformed behavior. Secondly, the verse strongly emphasizes **Unity in the Body of Christ**. By reminding believers that they are "called in one body," Paul underscores the corporate nature of their faith and the necessity of harmonious relationships within the church, a concept central to his ecclesiology, as seen in [Ephesians 4:1-6](/ephesians/4-1-6 "Ephesians 4:1-6 - Unity of the Spirit")). Thirdly, **Gratitude and Worship** emerge as a vital theme. Thankfulness is not an optional add-on but a commanded response to God's grace and a fundamental posture of the believer, echoing Paul's consistent exhortations to give thanks in all circumstances ([1 Thessalonians 5:18](/1_thessalonians/5-18 "1 Thessalonians 5:18 - Give thanks in everything")). Finally, the verse subtly points to the **Supremacy of Christ**, as it is *His* peace that rules, and it is *in Him* that the body finds its unity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **rule (Greek, _brabeúō_):** From the same root as the word for "prize" (βραβεῖον), this verb means "to arbitrate" or "to govern." It is a term drawn from the athletic arena, referring to the umpire or judge who presides over a contest and awards the prize. In this context, it vividly portrays the peace of God not as a passive feeling, but as an active, authoritative force that acts as the decisive arbiter in the hearts of believers, determining what is acceptable or not and guiding them towards spiritual victory and proper conduct.
* **peace (Greek, _eirḗnē_):** Probably from a primary verb meaning "to join," this word signifies peace in both a literal and figurative sense, encompassing prosperity, quietness, and rest. It denotes a state of wholeness, well-being, and harmony, both internally and externally. When applied to God, it refers to the profound tranquility and reconciliation that comes from Him, surpassing human understanding and guarding the heart and mind in Christ Jesus ([Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The peace of God")).
* **thankful (Greek, _eucháristos_):** This adjective is derived from "eu" (good, well) and a derivative of "charizomai" (to show favor, give graciously). It means "well-favored" or, by implication, "grateful." It describes a disposition of gratitude and appreciation, acknowledging God's goodness and provision. It implies a conscious and active recognition of blessings, fostering a spirit of praise and contentment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts":** This is a powerful imperative, urging believers to actively allow God's peace to function as the ultimate authority and arbiter within their inner being. This peace, which originates from God Himself, is to be the decisive factor that settles disputes, guides decisions, and resolves conflicts within the believer's thoughts, emotions, and intentions. It is a call to surrender internal turmoil and anxieties to the divine tranquility that God provides, enabling a life of spiritual order and alignment with His will.
* **"to the which also ye are called in one body":** This clause provides the foundational reason and context for the preceding command. Believers are called to peace because they have been united by God into a single spiritual entity—the church, the body of Christ. The peace that rules in individual hearts is essential for maintaining harmony and preventing discord within this corporate body. Their shared calling into one unified community necessitates that individual members prioritize and foster peace, recognizing their interconnectedness and interdependence.
* **"and be ye thankful":** This is a direct, concluding imperative. It is both a natural consequence of a heart ruled by God's peace and a distinct command. Gratitude is presented as an indispensable characteristic of the Christian life, a continuous posture of acknowledging God's sovereignty, goodness, and constant provision. This thankfulness is not conditional on circumstances but is a fundamental response to the grace received through Christ, fostering contentment, humility, and a positive orientation towards God and life.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several **Literary Devices** to convey his message with impact. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, where the "peace of God" is likened to an **umpire** or **arbiter** (`brabeúō`). This vivid imagery, drawn from the athletic world, transforms peace from a passive feeling into an active, authoritative force that makes decisions and resolves conflicts within the believer's heart, guiding them towards spiritual victory. The verse also utilizes **Imperative Mood** ("let... rule," "be ye thankful"), which conveys direct commands, emphasizing the volitional and active nature of the believer's responsibility in cultivating peace and gratitude. Furthermore, the phrase "in your hearts" uses **Synecdoche**, where "hearts" represents the entirety of the inner person—thoughts, emotions, will, and conscience—underscoring that God's peace is meant to permeate and govern the deepest parts of one's being.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Colossians 3:15 stands as a powerful testament to the transformative power of the gospel, connecting the internal state of the believer to the corporate life of the church. The "peace of God" is not merely the absence of conflict but a profound spiritual wholeness that stems from reconciliation with God through Christ. This divine peace, when allowed to govern the heart, naturally leads to harmony within the community, as individual members, freed from self-centeredness and division, are able to function as a unified body. The command to be thankful completes this picture, recognizing that all peace and unity are gifts from God, eliciting a continuous response of gratitude and worship. This holistic vision of peace, unity, and gratitude reflects the very nature of God and the purpose of His redemptive work.

* [Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "The Peace of God that Surpasses Understanding")
* [Ephesians 4:3](/ephesians/4-3 "Endeavoring to Keep the Unity of the Spirit in the Bond of Peace")
* [1 Thessalonians 5:18](/1_thessalonians/5-18 "Give Thanks in Everything")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For the modern believer, Colossians 3:15 offers vital guidance for navigating the complexities of daily life and fostering healthy Christian community. It challenges us to actively surrender our anxieties, internal conflicts, and decision-making processes to the discerning guidance of God's peace. This means cultivating an inner sensitivity to the presence or absence of divine peace as a spiritual indicator, allowing it to be the "umpire" in our hearts, directing our thoughts, words, and actions. Furthermore, recognizing our calling into "one body" compels us to prioritize unity and harmony in our relationships within the church, understanding that personal peace contributes directly to the collective well-being and witness of the community. Finally, the command to "be ye thankful" serves as a powerful antidote to discontentment and anxiety, urging us to intentionally cultivate a spirit of gratitude in all circumstances, acknowledging God's unfailing goodness and provision. This verse calls us to a life characterized by intentional peace, relational unity, and continuous gratitude, reflecting the transformed nature of those who are in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you need to allow the peace of God to "rule" more decisively?**
* **How does your personal pursuit of peace contribute to or detract from the unity of your local church or Christian community?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to cultivate a more consistent attitude of thankfulness, even amidst challenges?**
* **How might allowing God's peace to arbitrate your decisions change your approach to conflict or difficult choices?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean for the "peace of God" to "rule" in our hearts?**

Answer: The Greek word translated "rule" (brabeúō) comes from the athletic world and refers to an umpire or arbiter who presides over a contest and awards the prize. Therefore, for the peace of God to "rule" in our hearts means it should act as the decisive authority, the ultimate umpire, in our inner lives. When faced with choices, conflicts, or anxieties, the presence or absence of God's peace should be the guiding factor that determines our response and directs our decisions. It's not a passive feeling but an active, discerning presence that helps us align with God's will and maintain spiritual order, just as an umpire ensures fair play and adherence to rules in a game. This peace helps us discern what aligns with God's will and what does not, leading us towards spiritual wholeness and right conduct.

**How does the concept of being "called in one body" relate to the peace of God?**

Answer: The phrase "called in one body" refers to the church, the collective body of believers united in Christ. The peace of God is crucial for maintaining harmony and preventing discord within this spiritual organism. Just as different parts of a physical body work together in peace, so too should members of the church function in unity, avoiding strife and promoting mutual understanding. Paul emphasizes that believers are called into this unity by God Himself ([Ephesians 4:4-6](/ephesians/4-4-6 "Ephesians 4:4-6 - One Body, One Spirit, One Hope")). Therefore, individual peace in the heart is not merely for personal well-being but is essential for fostering collective peace and preventing division within the church, enabling it to fulfill its mission effectively.

**Why is thankfulness so strongly commanded in this verse?**

Answer: The instruction "and be ye thankful" is a direct command that serves as both a natural outflow of a heart ruled by God's peace and a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. Gratitude is essential because it reorients our focus from our circumstances or desires to God's sovereignty, goodness, and constant provision. A thankful heart cultivates contentment, humility, and a positive outlook, even amidst challenges, as it acknowledges God's faithfulness. It is a powerful antidote to anxiety, discontentment, and grumbling, fostering a spirit of praise and worship. Furthermore, thankfulness is a recognition of the immense grace and blessings received in Christ, making it a fitting response to the peace and unity that God provides. It is a posture that aligns us with God's will, as seen in [1 Thessalonians 5:18](/1_thessalonians/5-18 "1 Thessalonians 5:18 - Give Thanks in Everything").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Colossians 3:15 finds its ultimate fulfillment and enablement in the person and work of Jesus Christ. It is through Christ that we receive the "peace of God," for He Himself "is our peace" ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ is Our Peace")), having broken down the dividing wall of hostility between God and humanity, and between Jew and Gentile, through His cross ([Ephesians 2:16](/ephesians/2-16 "Ephesians 2:16 - Reconciliation through the Cross")). The peace that rules in our hearts is a direct result of our reconciliation with God, made possible by Christ's atoning sacrifice. Furthermore, the unity of the "one body" is established and sustained by Christ, who is the head of the church ([Colossians 1:18](/colossians/1-18 "Colossians 1:18 - Christ, the Head of the Church")). Believers are called into this singular body because they are all united *in Him*, sharing one Spirit and one hope ([Ephesians 4:4-6](/ephesians/4-4-6 "Ephesians 4:4-6 - Unity of the Spirit")). Finally, the command to "be ye thankful" is profoundly Christ-centered. Our deepest and most enduring reason for gratitude stems from God's "unspeakable gift" of His Son ([2 Corinthians 9:15](/2_corinthians/9-15 "2 Corinthians 9:15 - Thanks be to God for His Indescribable Gift!")). Every blessing, including peace and unity, flows from His finished work, making Christ the ultimate object and source of our thankfulness. Thus, Colossians 3:15 is not merely a set of ethical commands but a description of the Spirit-empowered life made possible by our union with Christ.

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

Philippians 4:6

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Philippians 4:7

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Isaiah 26:3

Thou wilt keep [him] in perfect peace, [whose] mind [is] stayed [on thee]: because he trusteth in thee.

Romans 15:13

¶ Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.

Psalms 29:11

The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.