Colossians 3:17

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, [do] all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

And {G2532} whatsoever {G3748}{G3956} ye do {G302}{G4160} in {G1722} word {G3056} or {G2228}{G1722} deed {G2041}, do all {G3956} in {G1722} the name {G3686} of the Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424}, giving thanks {G2168} to God {G2316} and {G2532} the Father {G3962} by {G1223} him {G846}.

That is, everything you do or say, do in the name of the Lord Yeshua, giving thanks through him to God the Father.

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

And whatsoever ye do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Commentary

Context of Colossians 3:17

Colossians 3:17 serves as a powerful summary statement within Paul's exhortation to the believers in Colossae. Following an appeal to set their minds on things above (Colossians 3:1-4) and to mortify their earthly desires (Colossians 3:5-11), Paul shifts to describing the new life in Christ. He urges them to "put on" virtues like compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience (Colossians 3:12-14), culminating in love, which binds everything together. The immediate preceding verses (Colossians 3:15-16) emphasize the peace of God ruling their hearts and the word of Christ dwelling richly within them, leading to spiritual songs and thankfulness. Verse 17 then provides an overarching principle for this renewed life.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Christ-Centered Living: The core command, "do all in the name of the Lord Jesus," means that every action, every word, and every decision should be done with Christ's authority, character, and glory as the primary motivation and standard. It's not merely invoking His name, but acting in a way that aligns with His nature and purpose. This transforms mundane tasks into acts of worship.
  • Wholeness and Scope of Life: "Whatsoever ye do in word or deed" emphasizes the comprehensive nature of this principle. It applies to every aspect of a believer's life – public or private, significant or seemingly insignificant. Our speech, our work, our relationships, our thoughts, and our leisure activities are all to be brought under the lordship of Jesus.
  • Attitude of Gratitude: The phrase "giving thanks to God and the Father by him" highlights that thankfulness is an essential component of Christian living. This gratitude is directed to God the Father, and it is made possible and offered "by" or "through" Jesus, our mediator. It reflects a heart that recognizes God's sovereignty and goodness in all circumstances, even as Ephesians 5:20 encourages giving thanks always for all things.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "in the name of the Lord Jesus" translates the Greek en onomati Kyriou Iēsou. The Greek word onoma (name) in this context signifies more than just a label; it encompasses the person's authority, character, and very essence. To do something "in the name of" Jesus means to do it by His authority, under His direction, in a way that reflects His character, and ultimately, for His honor and glory. It implies alignment with His will and representation of Him.

Practical Application

Colossians 3:17 offers profound practical guidance for daily Christian living:

  • Intentionality: It calls believers to live with purpose, ensuring that their actions and words are not thoughtless but deliberately offered as an act of devotion to Christ.
  • Ethical Standard: This verse provides a powerful ethical framework. Before speaking or acting, one can ask: "Does this honor Jesus? Is this consistent with His character? Am I doing this as His representative?"
  • Spiritualizing the Ordinary: It elevates all aspects of life, transforming even routine tasks into opportunities for worship and service. Whether at work, home, or in the community, every endeavor can be an expression of faith. This resonates with the principle found in 1 Corinthians 10:31, "whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."
  • Cultivating Gratitude: The command to give thanks reminds us to maintain a grateful heart, acknowledging God's grace and provision in every situation. This attitude fosters contentment and trust, even amidst challenges.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 10:31 (118 votes)

    Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

  • Colossians 3:23 (99 votes)

    And whatsoever ye do, do [it] heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

  • Proverbs 3:6 (75 votes)

    In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

  • Ephesians 5:20 (57 votes)

    Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

  • 1 Peter 4:11 (42 votes)

    If any man speak, [let him speak] as the oracles of God; if any man minister, [let him do it] as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (40 votes)

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

  • 1 Peter 2:5 (34 votes)

    Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.