Colossians 3:18

Colossians 3:18 is a foundational verse within what biblical scholars often refer to as the "household codes" found in Paul's epistles. These codes provide instructions for various relationships within the Christian community, particularly within families.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Colossians 3 (verses 18-4:1) where Paul transitions from theological truths about Christ's supremacy and the believer's new identity in Him to practical instructions for daily Christian living. Having urged believers to "put off the old man with his deeds" and "put on the new man" (Colossians 3:9-10), Paul now applies these principles to specific social roles, starting with the marriage relationship. It's crucial to understand that this instruction for wives is immediately followed by a corresponding command for husbands in Colossians 3:19, creating a balanced and reciprocal framework for Christian marriage.

Key Themes

• Order within the Christian Household: Paul addresses the hierarchical structure common in ancient societies, but he redefines it through the lens of Christ's lordship. The instruction is not about inferiority but about functional order and mutual respect within a divinely ordained structure.
• Submission "In the Lord": The phrase "as it is fit in the Lord" is paramount. It signifies that the wife's submission is not absolute or to be exercised blindly, but rather it is qualified and guided by her ultimate allegiance to Christ. This means that submission should never contradict God's will or lead to sin. It is a voluntary act of aligning with God's design for the family, done out of reverence for Christ.
• Distinction from Worldly Views: In the Greco-Roman world, wives often had very few rights and were seen as property. Paul's teaching, while using familiar terminology, elevates the wife's position by placing her actions within a spiritual context and balancing it with the husband's responsibilities (Colossians 3:19; see also Ephesians 5:25).

Linguistic Insights

• "Submit yourselves" (Greek: hypotassō - ὑποτάσσω): This word literally means "to arrange under," "to place in order," or "to subject oneself." It is used in the New Testament to describe various forms of submission, including submission to governing authorities, to God, and even mutual submission among believers (Ephesians 5:21). In the context of marriage, it implies a willing cooperation and recognition of the husband's headship, not a servile obedience.
• "As it is fit in the Lord" (Greek: hōs anēken en Kyriō - ὡς ἀνῆκεν ἐν Κυρίῳ): The word anēken means "it is proper," "it is fitting," or "it is due." The phrase en Kyriō, "in the Lord," is a crucial qualifier. It indicates that the nature and extent of this submission are defined and limited by one's relationship with Christ. It is a submission that honors God and is consistent with Christian principles and values, never requiring a wife to act contrary to her conscience or God's Word.

Practical Application

For believers today, Colossians 3:18 calls for wives to willingly and respectfully align themselves within the marriage relationship, doing so out of their devotion to Christ. This submission is not about inferiority, but about recognizing and honoring the complementary roles within a marriage, where both husband and wife are equally valued in God's eyes. It underscores the spiritual foundation of marriage, where actions are motivated by love for God and a desire for harmony within the home. This instruction is always to be understood in conjunction with the husband's command to love his wife and not be bitter against her, ensuring that the Christian marriage is characterized by mutual respect, love, and Christ-centered partnership.