Colossians 3:20

Context

Colossians 3:20 is part of the Apostle Paul's practical instructions to believers in Colossae, following his theological explanations of Christ's supremacy and the believers' new life in Him. Chapters 1 and 2 lay the doctrinal foundation, emphasizing that believers have been raised with Christ (Colossians 3:1) and should therefore "put off" the old sinful self and "put on" the new, Christ-like nature (Colossians 3:10). This particular verse falls within what scholars often call the "household codes," sections in New Testament epistles that address the roles and responsibilities within a Christian household (husbands/wives, children/parents, servants/masters). These instructions demonstrate how the transformative power of Christ should manifest in daily, relational living within the family unit and society.

Key Themes

• Obedience as a Divine Mandate: The verse directly commands "Children, obey your parents in all things." This is not merely a cultural suggestion but a divine expectation for Christian children. This comprehensive obedience is understood to be within the bounds of righteousness; children are not expected to obey commands that would lead them to sin against God.
• God's Pleasure in Obedience: The motivation given for this obedience is profound: "for this is well pleasing unto the Lord." This elevates the act of obeying parents from a simple household rule to a spiritual act of worship and devotion. It signifies that God delights in the order and respect shown within the family, reflecting His own character of order and authority. This principle echoes the broader biblical truth that without faith it is impossible to please God, and obedience often stems from a heart of faith and trust in Him.
• Foundation of Family Order: The command underscores the importance of the family structure and the authority God has vested in parents. Obedience from children is crucial for the harmony, stability, and proper functioning of the home, which in turn contributes to the health of the broader community and the church.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "obey" here is hypakouo (ὑπακούω), which literally means "to listen under" or "to hear attentively and respond." It implies more than just passive hearing; it suggests a submissive listening that leads to action and compliance. The phrase "well pleasing" comes from the Greek euarestos (εὐάρεστος), meaning "fully agreeable," "acceptable," or "well-pleasing." It conveys the idea of something that brings genuine satisfaction, delight, or approval to God, highlighting the divine approval of such obedience.

Practical Application

For children (of all ages who still have living parents), this verse is a clear call to respect and submit to parental authority. It teaches that showing honor and obedience to parents is not just about human relationships but is fundamentally about honoring God. Even as adults, while direct obedience may shift to respectful honor and care, the underlying principle of valuing and respecting parents remains.

For parents, this verse affirms the divine origin of their authority and the spiritual significance of their role. It encourages parents to raise their children in a way that teaches them to honor God through their obedience, understanding that a well-ordered Christian home is a testament to God's design. It also implies that parents should give commands that are themselves "well pleasing unto the Lord," consistent with God's character and Word.

The principle of obedience to God-given authority extends beyond the family to other spheres of life, emphasizing that Christian faith impacts every relationship and aspect of our lives, all for the glory of God.