Colossians 3:16

KJV

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

KJV (with Strong's)

Let {G1774} the word {G3056} of Christ {G5547} dwell {G1774} in {G1722} you {G5213} richly {G4146} in {G1722} all {G3956} wisdom {G4678}; teaching {G1321} and {G2532} admonishing {G3560} one another {G1438} in psalms {G5568} and {G2532} hymns {G5215} and {G2532} spiritual {G4152} songs {G5603}, singing {G103} with {G1722} grace {G5485} in {G1722} your {G5216} hearts {G2588} to the Lord {G2962}.

Complete Jewish Bible

let the Word of the Messiah, in all its richness, live in you, as you teach and counsel each other in all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude to God in your hearts.

Berean Standard Bible

Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.

American Standard Version

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts unto God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Colossians 3:16 provides a comprehensive blueprint for the spiritual vitality of the Christian community, emphasizing the transformative power of Christ's word dwelling abundantly within believers. It outlines a reciprocal process of mutual edification through teaching and admonition, expressed corporately through diverse forms of musical worship—psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs—all performed with sincere gratitude and devotion from the heart directed to the Lord. This verse serves as a practical outworking of the new identity believers possess in Christ, fostering both individual spiritual growth and robust communal fellowship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Colossians 3:16 stands as a pivotal instruction within the practical exhortations of Paul's letter to the Colossians. Following a deep theological exposition in chapters 1-2 on the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ, chapter 3 transitions to the ethical implications of this truth. Paul urges believers to live in accordance with their new identity in Christ, having been raised with him and having their lives hidden in him ([Colossians 3:1-4](/colossians/3-1-4 "Colossians 3:1-4 - Raised with Christ")). He then commands them to "put to death" their old sinful nature and "put on" the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its Creator ([Colossians 3:5-11](/colossians/3-5-11 "Colossians 3:5-11 - Putting Off the Old Self")). This leads to a call for virtues like compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and forgiveness ([Colossians 3:12-14](/colossians/3-12-14 "Colossians 3:12-14 - Putting On the New Self")). Immediately preceding verse 16, Paul exhorts the Colossians to "let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts" and to "be thankful" ([Colossians 3:15](/colossians/3-15 "Colossians 3:15 - The Peace of Christ")). Thus, verse 16 provides the specific means by which this peace and thankfulness are cultivated and expressed within the gathered community, making the word of Christ central to their corporate life and worship.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Colossae was located in Phrygia, a region of Asia Minor, and was influenced by various philosophical and religious currents, including Gnosticism and Jewish mysticism, which threatened to undermine the simplicity and sufficiency of the gospel of Christ. Paul's letter directly addresses these syncretistic tendencies by exalting Christ as preeminent over all creation and the fullness of God ([Colossians 1:15-20](/colossians/1-15-20 "Colossians 1:15-20 - The Supremacy of Christ")). In this environment, the emphasis on the "word of Christ" dwelling richly was a direct counter-cultural statement against human philosophies and empty deceptions ([Colossians 2:8](/colossians/2-8 "Colossians 2:8 - Warning Against False Teaching")). Furthermore, the early Christian church met in homes, and their gatherings were characterized by communal singing, teaching, and mutual encouragement. The mention of "psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs" reflects the diverse musical traditions present in the early church, drawing from Jewish synagogue practices (psalms) and new Christian compositions (hymns and spiritual songs) that celebrated Christ. This communal expression of faith was vital for reinforcing theological truth and fostering unity amidst external pressures and internal challenges.

* **Key Themes:** Colossians 3:16 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the letter. The **Supremacy and Sufficiency of Christ** is foundational, as the "word of Christ" itself is the source of all wisdom and the content of their teaching and worship. The theme of **New Life in Christ** is evident in the call for the word to dwell "richly," transforming believers from the inside out, leading to a life characterized by wisdom and grace. **Community and Mutual Edification** are central, as believers are explicitly commanded to "teach and admonish one another," highlighting the corporate responsibility for spiritual growth. This mutual ministry is facilitated and expressed through **Worship and Gratitude**, particularly through singing, which is presented not merely as an activity but as a heartfelt expression of grace towards the Lord. The verse underscores that true Christian living is not just individual piety but a vibrant, interactive, and Christ-centered communal experience where truth is internalized, shared, and celebrated.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **dwell (Greek, _enoikéō'_):** From *en* (in) and *oikéō* (to inhabit), this word means "to inhabit (figuratively)." It implies more than a temporary visit; it suggests making a permanent home, taking up residence, and thoroughly permeating. When applied to the "word of Christ," it signifies that God's truth should not merely be heard or known intellectually, but should deeply settle into, occupy, and influence every aspect of a believer's inner life and outward conduct.
* **richly (Greek, _plousíōs'_):** This adverb means "copiously," "abundantly," or "generously." It intensifies the verb "dwell," indicating that the word of Christ should not just be present, but present in overflowing measure, with great abundance and influence. This richness leads to "all wisdom," suggesting a comprehensive and deep understanding and application of divine truth in every area of life.
* **admonishing (Greek, _nouthetéō'_):** This verb means "to put in mind," or "to caution or reprove gently." It carries the sense of instructing, warning, or counseling with the aim of correcting the mind or behavior, always for the good of the person and with a spirit of love and concern. It is a pastoral act of guiding someone towards right thinking and living, distinct from mere teaching which imparts knowledge.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom":** This opening imperative establishes the foundational command. "The word of Christ" refers to the gospel message, the teachings of Jesus, and the entirety of God's revelation centered on Christ. To "let" it dwell means to actively permit and cultivate its presence. The adverb "richly" emphasizes the depth and abundance of this indwelling, implying a pervasive influence on one's thoughts, emotions, and will. This rich indwelling is the source of "all wisdom," meaning practical godly insight and understanding for living.
* **"teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs":** This clause describes the communal outworking of the word's rich indwelling. "Teaching" involves imparting knowledge and understanding of Christian truth, while "admonishing" involves gentle correction, warning, and encouragement for right behavior. Both are mutual activities ("one another") within the community. The mediums for this mutual edification are "psalms" (Old Testament poetic and musical compositions), "hymns" (songs of praise specifically to God or Christ), and "spiritual songs" (broader Christian compositions inspired by the Spirit). This indicates that music is a vital vehicle for conveying theological truth and fostering spiritual growth.
* **"singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.":** This final clause specifies the manner and direction of the musical expression. "Singing" is the active participation in worship. "With grace" (Greek: *charis*) can mean "with gratitude," "with thankfulness," or "with divine favor/inspiration." This singing is not merely external but originates "in your hearts," signifying sincerity, authenticity, and deep emotion. The ultimate recipient and focus of this worship is "the Lord," highlighting the Christ-centered nature of their praise and devotion.

#### Literary Devices
Colossians 3:16 employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound message. The opening phrase, "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly," uses **Metaphor** and **Personification**. The "word" is not a physical entity, but it is described as taking up residence ("dwell") and doing so abundantly ("richly"), as if it were a living guest making its home within the believer. This vivid imagery emphasizes the deep, pervasive, and transformative influence the gospel should have on one's inner being. The verse also utilizes **Imperative Mood** ("Let... dwell," "teaching and admonishing," "singing"), conveying direct commands that call for active participation and intentionality from believers. Furthermore, there is a clear **Parallelism** with Ephesians 5:19, which uses very similar language regarding "speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord." This intertextual connection highlights a common Pauline emphasis on the role of corporate worship and the indwelling of God's word/Spirit in fostering Christian community. Finally, the phrase "in your hearts" is an example of **Synecdoche**, where the "heart" (the seat of emotions and will) represents the entire inner person, emphasizing that true worship and the indwelling of the word must be authentic and deeply internal, not merely superficial or external.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Colossians 3:16 is deeply theological, asserting the active and transformative power of God's revealed truth in the lives of believers. The "word of Christ" is presented as the primary agent of spiritual formation, not merely human effort. Its rich indwelling leads to "all wisdom," which is a divine gift, enabling believers to discern God's will and live righteously. This wisdom is not abstract but profoundly practical, manifesting in mutual teaching and admonition, which underscores the corporate nature of Christian discipleship and sanctification. The verse also elevates worship as a theological act, a Spirit-empowered response to God's grace, where truth is both proclaimed and internalized through song. The emphasis on "grace in your hearts to the Lord" connects worship directly to gratitude for God's unmerited favor, making it a holistic expression of faith, intellect, and emotion directed towards the divine.

* [Ephesians 5:18-20](/ephesians/5-18-20 "Ephesians 5:18-20 - Filled with the Spirit")
* [Psalm 119:11](/psalm/119-11 "Psalm 119:11 - Hiding God's Word in the Heart")
* [Hebrews 4:12](/hebrews/4-12 "Hebrews 4:12 - The Word of God is Living and Active")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Colossians 3:16 offers timeless and practical guidance for cultivating a vibrant spiritual life, both individually and within the Christian community. For the individual, it challenges us to move beyond superficial engagement with Scripture to a deep, pervasive indwelling of Christ's word. This means intentionally immersing ourselves in the Bible, meditating on its truths, allowing it to shape our worldview, inform our decisions, and transform our character. It's about letting the gospel permeate every thought and desire, leading to genuine wisdom that guides our daily walk. Corporately, the verse calls us to active participation in the life of the church, recognizing our responsibility to "teach and admonish one another." This involves humble sharing of insights, gentle correction offered in love, and earnest encouragement, all aimed at building up the body of Christ. Furthermore, it reminds us that corporate worship, particularly through singing, is a powerful means of both instruction and devotion. Our songs should be rich in theological truth, sung not just with our voices but with hearts overflowing with grace and gratitude towards the Lord. This holistic approach ensures that our faith is not merely private but lived out visibly and audibly in community, reflecting the transformative power of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what practical ways can I allow the "word of Christ" to "dwell in me richly" this week, beyond just reading it?**
* **How can I more intentionally participate in "teaching and admonishing one another" within my Christian community, both receiving and giving?**
* **Am I truly "singing with grace in my heart to the Lord" during corporate worship, or is my participation merely external? How can I cultivate deeper sincerity?**

### FAQ

**What does "the word of Christ" refer to in this verse?**

Answer: "The word of Christ" (Greek: *ho logos tou Christou*) primarily refers to the gospel message—the good news about Jesus Christ, His life, death, resurrection, and reign. It encompasses the entirety of God's revelation centered on Christ, including the teachings of Jesus Himself and the apostolic interpretations of His saving work found throughout the New Testament. It is the message that brings salvation, shapes Christian living, and provides all necessary wisdom for believers. This "word" is not merely a collection of facts but a living, active force that transforms those who embrace it, as highlighted in [Hebrews 4:12](/hebrews/4-12 "The Word of God is Living and Active").

**How does "teaching and admonishing one another" relate to the "word of Christ" dwelling richly?**

Answer: The rich indwelling of the "word of Christ" is the prerequisite and fuel for effective mutual teaching and admonition. When Christ's word deeply permeates individual believers, they become equipped with the wisdom and truth necessary to instruct, encourage, and gently correct others within the community. It's not about sharing personal opinions, but about speaking God's truth into one another's lives. This reciprocal ministry ensures that the entire body grows in knowledge and maturity, as seen in [Ephesians 4:15-16](/ephesians/4-15-16 "Growing Up into Christ"). The shared foundation of Christ's word enables believers to build each other up in love, fostering a healthy and vibrant spiritual environment.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Colossians 3:16 finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in Christ Himself, who is the very embodiment and content of "the word of Christ." Jesus is the living Word of God ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God")), through whom all things were created and in whom all things hold together ([Colossians 1:16-17](/colossians/1-16-17 "Colossians 1:16-17 - Christ as Creator and Sustainer")). Therefore, for the "word of Christ" to dwell richly in us means for Christ Himself, in His person and work, to profoundly indwell and permeate our lives through the Holy Spirit ([Colossians 1:27](/colossians/1-27 "Colossians 1:27 - Christ in You, the Hope of Glory")). All "wisdom" mentioned in the verse is found in Christ, for "in him are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, in Whom All Treasures are Hidden")). Our ability to teach and admonish one another flows from our shared union with Christ and our collective understanding of His gospel. The "psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs" are not merely human compositions but Spirit-inspired expressions that celebrate Christ's redemptive work, His glory, and His reign. Our singing "with grace in your hearts to the Lord" is a response to the grace we have received through Christ's sacrifice on the cross ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Saved by Grace Through Faith")), directing our worship to Him as the supreme Lord ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation")). Thus, Colossians 3:16 is a call to live out the reality of Christ's indwelling presence, allowing His truth to transform us individually and corporately, culminating in heartfelt worship that magnifies His name.

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

Psalms 119:11

¶ Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

John 15:7

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

Ephesians 5:19

Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;

Romans 10:17

So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

1 John 2:24

Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father.

Jeremiah 15:16

Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.

Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.