Colossians 3:15

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

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}.

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 —

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

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

Colossians 3:15 is a profound exhortation on the centrality of peace and gratitude in the life of a believer, especially within the Christian community. It follows Paul's earlier instructions in Colossians 3 about putting off the old self and putting on the new, emphasizing the practical outworking of a transformed life.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's practical instructions to the Colossian believers, encouraging them to live out their new identity in Christ. Having discussed the spiritual reality of their union with Christ and the need to "set your affection on things above" (Colossians 3:2), Paul moves into specific behaviors and attitudes that should characterize those who have "put on the new man" (Colossians 3:10). The verses immediately preceding Colossians 3:15 speak of virtues like mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering, and above all, love (Colossians 3:12-14). Peace and thankfulness are presented as essential elements that bind these virtues together and foster unity within the church.

Key Themes

  • The Peace of God as an Umpire: The phrase "let the peace of God rule in your hearts" uses the Greek word brabeuō, which literally means to act as an umpire or arbiter in a contest. This implies that God's peace should be the decisive factor in our inner lives, guiding our thoughts, emotions, and decisions. When faced with choices or conflicts, the presence or absence of God's peace should serve as a spiritual guide, ensuring alignment with His will. This profound tranquility is not merely the absence of conflict but a divine wholeness and well-being that surpasses human understanding, as described in Philippians 4:7.
  • Unity in the Body of Christ: The verse reminds believers that they are "called in one body." This 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 frequently emphasizes this concept of the church as the body of Christ, with each member playing a vital role.
  • The Command to Be Thankful: The instruction "and be ye thankful" serves as both a natural outflow of a heart ruled by God's peace and a direct command. Gratitude is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life, acknowledging God's sovereignty, goodness, and provision. A thankful heart cultivates contentment, humility, and a positive outlook, even amidst challenges. It is a powerful antidote to anxiety and discontentment, fostering a spirit of praise and worship.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV's "rule" for the Greek word brabeuō (βραβεύω) is particularly insightful. It's a term from the athletic world, referring to the judge or umpire who awards the prize. This vividly portrays the peace of God not as a passive feeling, but as an active, authoritative force that determines what is acceptable or not within our hearts, guiding us towards spiritual victory and proper conduct within the Christian race.

Practical Application

For modern believers, Colossians 3:15 offers vital guidance for daily living. It encourages us to actively seek and prioritize God's peace in our decision-making. When faced with internal turmoil or external conflicts, we are to allow His peace to be the arbiter, guiding our responses and interactions. This verse also serves as a powerful reminder of our corporate identity in Christ; personal peace contributes directly to the overall health and unity of the church. Furthermore, cultivating a habit of thankfulness, even for the small blessings, is essential for maintaining spiritual well-being and acknowledging God's constant presence and provision. This attitude of gratitude helps us to live out the exhortation to give thanks in everything.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 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.
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