Colossians 3:20

KJV

Children, obey [your] parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.

KJV (with Strong's)

Children {G5043}, obey {G5219} your parents {G1118} in {G2596} all things {G3956}: for {G1063} this {G5124} is {G2076} well pleasing {G2101} unto the Lord {G2962}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Children, obey your parents in everything; for this pleases the Lord.

Berean Standard Bible

Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord.

American Standard Version

Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing in the Lord.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Colossians 3:20 presents a clear divine mandate for children to obey their parents in all matters, underscoring that such obedience is not merely a social convention but an act profoundly pleasing to the Lord. This verse, situated within Paul's practical instructions for Christian living, highlights the spiritual significance of familial relationships and demonstrates how the new life in Christ transforms and orders the household according to God's design, fostering harmony and reflecting divine authority.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Colossians 3:20 is embedded within the latter, practical section of Paul's letter to the Colossians, following his profound theological exposition on the supremacy of Christ and the believer's union with Him. Chapters 1 and 2 establish Christ as the head of all creation and the church, the one in whom "all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell" [Colossians 1:19](/colossians/1-19 "Colossians 1:19 - Christ's Fullness"). Chapter 3 transitions from doctrine to duty, urging believers to "seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God" [Colossians 3:1](/colossians/3-1 "Colossians 3:1 - Seek Things Above"). This pursuit of heavenly things necessitates "putting off" the old self with its sinful practices and "putting on" the new self, which is being renewed in the image of its Creator [Colossians 3:9-10](/colossians/3-9-10 "Colossians 3:9-10 - Putting Off the Old, Putting On the New"). The specific instructions in verses 18-21, often referred to as "household codes," apply these theological truths to the most fundamental unit of society: the family. They provide concrete examples of how Christ's transformative power should manifest in the daily, relational dynamics of husbands and wives, children and parents, and masters and slaves, demonstrating that Christian faith impacts every sphere of life.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The concept of "household codes" was common in Greco-Roman society, reflecting a prevailing emphasis on social order and hierarchical structures within the family and broader community. Philosophers like Aristotle and Plato discussed the proper functioning of the household (oikos). However, Paul's Christian household codes, while sharing a structural resemblance, fundamentally reorient these relationships through the lens of Christ. Unlike pagan codes that often emphasized the absolute authority of the paterfamilias, Paul introduces mutual submission and obligations rooted in love and reverence for Christ. For children, obedience was a cornerstone of Roman family life, where the *patria potestas* (father's power) was extensive, even over adult children. Paul's command to "obey your parents" would have resonated culturally, but his addition "in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord" elevates the motivation from mere societal expectation or fear of parental reprisal to a spiritual act of worship and devotion to God. This reframing imbues the command with unique Christian significance, placing familial harmony within the divine economy.
* **Key Themes:** Colossians 3:20 significantly contributes to several overarching themes within the book and broader New Testament. Firstly, it reinforces the theme of **Christian Conduct and Ethics**, demonstrating how theological truth must translate into practical, righteous living. The transformation wrought by Christ is not merely internal but profoundly impacts external behavior, especially within the most intimate relationships. Secondly, it highlights the **Divine Order and Authority** within creation, particularly within the family unit. God has established parents as figures of authority, and children's obedience to them reflects a broader principle of submission to God-ordained structures. This theme is echoed in other epistles, such as when Paul instructs wives to submit to their husbands as to the Lord [Ephesians 5:22](/ephesians/5-22 "Ephesians 5:22 - Wives, Submit to Your Husbands"). Thirdly, the verse underscores the theme of **Pleasing God Through Obedience**. The motivation "for this is well pleasing unto the Lord" elevates mundane acts of obedience into spiritual offerings. This aligns with the broader biblical principle that genuine faith is demonstrated through obedience, as seen in the life of Abraham, who was justified by faith, yet his faith was demonstrated through his obedience [James 2:21-23](/james/2-21-23 "James 2:21-23 - Faith and Works"). Finally, it contributes to the theme of **Christ's Lordship Over All Life**, asserting that even the seemingly small acts of family life are to be lived "as to the Lord" [Colossians 3:23](/colossians/3-23 "Colossians 3:23 - Work as for the Lord"), bringing every sphere under His sovereign rule.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Children (Greek, _téknon'_):** From G5043, meaning "a child (as produced)." This term broadly refers to offspring, regardless of age, though in the context of household codes, it typically refers to those still under parental authority. It emphasizes the natural relationship of being "produced" by parents, implying a foundational bond and inherent responsibility.
* **Obey (Greek, _hypakoúō'_):** From G5219, meaning "to hear under (as a subordinate), i.e. to listen attentively; by implication, to heed or conform to a command or authority." This word implies more than just passive hearing; it denotes a responsive, submissive listening that leads to active compliance. It suggests an attitude of respect and willingness to follow instructions from a position of deference.
* **Well pleasing (Greek, _euárestos'_):** From G2101, meaning "fully agreeable." This term conveys the idea of something that brings genuine satisfaction, delight, or approval. When applied to God, it signifies that the action is not merely acceptable but is something that aligns with His character and brings Him joy. It highlights the divine approval and favor that rests upon such obedience.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Children, obey your parents in all things:"** This is a direct, imperative command addressed to children. The term "children" (τέκνα) refers to offspring, encompassing those still under the direct care and authority of their parents. The verb "obey" (ὑπακούετε) is in the present imperative, signifying a continuous, ongoing action. The phrase "in all things" (ἐν πᾶσιν) is comprehensive, indicating that the obedience should extend to every area of life, encompassing all legitimate parental instructions. This comprehensive scope is understood within the moral framework of God's law; children are not expected to obey commands that would lead them to sin against God, as the ultimate authority is God Himself. This clause establishes the action required and its scope.
* **"for this is well pleasing unto the Lord."** This clause provides the divine motivation and justification for the command. The particle "for" (γάρ, G1063) introduces the reason. "This" (τοῦτο, G5124) refers back to the act of children obeying their parents. The phrase "well pleasing" (εὐάρεστον, G2101) signifies that such obedience brings genuine satisfaction and approval to "the Lord" (τῷ Κυρίῳ, G2962). This elevates the act of obedience from a mere social or familial duty to a spiritual act of worship that honors God directly. It implies that God delights in the order, respect, and submission demonstrated within the family unit, as it reflects His own character and design for human relationships.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Didacticism**, serving as direct ethical instruction for believers. It uses a clear **Imperative Mood** ("obey") to convey a direct command. The structure also features a **Motivation Clause**, where the command ("Children, obey your parents in all things") is immediately followed by its divine rationale ("for this is well pleasing unto the Lord"). This rhetorical device is common in Paul's epistles, providing not just rules but also the theological foundation and spiritual benefit for adherence. The phrase "in all things" functions as a **Hyperbole** or **Generalization** to emphasize comprehensive obedience, though implicitly bounded by righteousness, a common interpretive principle in biblical commands.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Colossians 3:20 powerfully articulates the theological principle that familial relationships are not merely secular arrangements but spheres where God's will and glory are to be manifested. The command for children to obey parents is rooted in God's design for order and authority, reflecting His own hierarchical nature and His desire for harmonious relationships within His creation. This obedience is presented as an act of worship, demonstrating that even seemingly ordinary domestic duties can become profoundly spiritual when performed with a heart seeking to please God. It underscores the sanctity of the family unit as a foundational institution ordained by God, where principles of submission, respect, and love are to be cultivated, ultimately redounding to the praise of the Lord.

* [Ephesians 6:1-3](/ephesians/6-1-3 "Ephesians 6:1-3 - Children, Obey Your Parents")
* [Proverbs 6:20-22](/proverbs/6-20-22 "Proverbs 6:20-22 - Keep Your Father's Command")
* [Hebrews 11:6](/hebrews/11-6 "Hebrews 11:6 - Faith Pleases God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Colossians 3:20 offers profound insights for both children and parents, extending beyond mere childhood into the dynamics of adult children and their aging parents. For those still under parental authority, the call to "obey your parents in all things" is a clear directive to honor, respect, and submit to the guidance and instruction of those God has placed over them. This obedience, however, is not blind; it is implicitly understood to be within the bounds of righteousness, meaning children are not to obey commands that would lead them to sin against God. The motivation is paramount: "for this is well pleasing unto the Lord." This transforms a household chore or a parental request into an act of worship, reminding children that their obedience to their parents is fundamentally an act of obedience to God. For parents, this verse affirms the divine origin and significance of their authority. It encourages them to exercise this authority responsibly, nurturing their children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord, knowing that a home where children honor their parents is a home that brings delight to God. Even for adult children, while direct obedience may shift, the principle of honor, respect, and care for parents remains a lifelong mandate, reflecting God's enduring design for family relationships and our ongoing call to live lives that are "well pleasing unto the Lord."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways can children (of any age) demonstrate obedience and honor to their parents today?**
* **How does understanding that obedience "is well pleasing unto the Lord" change your perspective on familial duties?**
* **What are the boundaries of "obeying in all things" for a Christian child, and how can one discern them?**
* **How can parents foster an environment where children are encouraged to obey, understanding its spiritual significance?**

### FAQ
**Does "obey your parents in all things" mean children must obey even if a parent tells them to do something wrong or sinful?**

Answer: No, the phrase "in all things" must be interpreted within the broader biblical context of God's ultimate authority. While the command emphasizes comprehensive obedience, it does not override a higher command to obey God. If a parent's instruction contradicts God's clear moral law or leads to sin, a child's ultimate allegiance is to God. As Peter famously declared, "We must obey God rather than human beings!" [Acts 5:29](/acts/5-29 "Acts 5:29 - Obey God Rather Than Men"). Christian obedience to human authority is always subordinate to and qualified by obedience to divine authority. Therefore, "in all things" refers to all legitimate and righteous commands that fall within the bounds of God's will.

**Does this verse apply to adult children, or only to those living under their parents' roof?**

Answer: While the direct command to "obey" (ὑπακούω) primarily applies to children under the direct authority and care of their parents, the underlying principle of honoring and respecting parents is lifelong. The New Testament consistently upholds the Fifth Commandment, "Honor your father and your mother" [Exodus 20:12](/exodus/20-12 "Exodus 20:12 - The Fifth Commandment"), which is reiterated in Ephesians 6:2-3 with a promise. For adult children, this honor may manifest as respectful communication, seeking counsel, providing care as parents age, and maintaining a loving relationship, even if direct obedience to commands is no longer the primary dynamic. The goal remains to live in a way that is "well pleasing unto the Lord" in all family relationships.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Colossians 3:20 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the supreme example of perfect obedience, not only to His heavenly Father but also to His earthly parents. Luke records that Jesus "went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them" [Luke 2:51](/luke/2-51 "Luke 2:51 - Jesus' Submission to His Parents"), demonstrating the very obedience Paul commands. More profoundly, Christ's entire earthly life was characterized by unwavering obedience to the Father's will, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross. He "humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross" [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience"). It is through Christ's perfect obedience that humanity's disobedience is atoned for, and believers are enabled to live lives that are "well pleasing unto the Lord." Our ability to obey our parents, or any authority, stems from our union with Christ, who empowers us by His Spirit to walk in newness of life. Thus, children's obedience to parents becomes a tangible expression of their new identity in Christ and a participation in His own obedient life, reflecting the gospel's transformative power within the most intimate human relationships, all to the glory of the one true Lord.

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

Exodus 20:12

¶ Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

Ephesians 6:1

¶ Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.

Ephesians 6:3

That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

Deuteronomy 27:16

Cursed [be] he that setteth light by his father or his mother. And all the people shall say, Amen.

Proverbs 6:20

¶ My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

Proverbs 30:17

The eye [that] mocketh at [his] father, and despiseth to obey [his] mother, the ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.

Matthew 15:4

For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.