Colossians 3:23

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

And {G2532} whatsoever {G3956}{G3748}{G1437} ye do {G4160}, do {G2038} it heartily {G1537}{G5590}, as {G5613} to the Lord {G2962}, and {G2532} not {G3756} unto men {G444};

Whatever work you do, put yourself into it, as those who are serving not merely other people, but the Lord.

Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men,

whatsoever ye do, work heartily, as unto the Lord, and not unto men;

Commentary

Colossians 3:23 (KJV) states: "And whatsoever ye do, do [it] heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;"

Context

This verse is part of a larger section in Paul's letter to the Colossians (Chapter 3) that outlines practical instructions for Christian living. After urging believers to "seek those things which are above" (Colossians 3:1) and to "put off the old man" (Colossians 3:9), Paul provides specific guidance for various relationships within the household and community, including wives, husbands, children, parents, and servants. Colossians 3:23-24 specifically addresses the attitude toward work, initially directed at servants (or slaves in the Roman world) but carrying universal principles for all believers in their daily tasks and vocations. It challenges the prevailing social structures by elevating the purpose of labor from pleasing human masters to honoring God.

Key Themes

  • Wholehearted Effort: The command to "do it heartily" emphasizes performing tasks with full sincerity, enthusiasm, and diligence. It's about giving one's best, not just doing the bare minimum.
  • Divine Motivation: The core principle is "as to the Lord." This transforms any work, no matter how menial or grand, into an act of worship and service to God. Our ultimate audience and supervisor is Christ Himself.
  • Freedom from Human Approval: "And not unto men" liberates individuals from seeking primary validation, praise, or even avoiding punishment solely from human authorities. While human responsibilities are important, the primary motivation and standard are divine. This fosters integrity, even when no human eye is watching.
  • Sanctification of Labor: This verse elevates all legitimate work, whether in the home, marketplace, or ministry, to a sacred calling. It teaches that every task can be a spiritual discipline and an offering to God.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "heartily" is ek psychēs (ἐκ ψυχῆς), which literally means "from the soul" or "from the innermost being." This signifies a deep, internal commitment and passion, not just outward compliance or grudging effort. It implies that our work should be an outpouring of our regenerated spirit, reflecting the earnestness and love we have for God.

Practical Application

Colossians 3:23 offers profound guidance for modern life, regardless of one's profession or daily responsibilities:

  • Work Ethic: It encourages a strong work ethic characterized by excellence and dedication, whether at a paid job, in volunteer service, at school, or in household chores.
  • Purpose and Meaning: It imbues everyday tasks with divine purpose, transforming mundane activities into opportunities to glorify God. This perspective can combat burnout and dissatisfaction by reframing our perspective on work.
  • Integrity: Since our work is "as to the Lord," it promotes integrity and honesty, even when oversight is minimal or absent. Our standard is God's perfect character.
  • Motivation: It shifts our motivation from external rewards, human praise, or fear of consequences to an internal desire to please God. This leads to greater contentment and perseverance.

This verse beautifully encapsulates the Christian approach to all areas of life, reminding us that "whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31). Furthermore, it sets the stage for the promise of a divine reward for such faithful service, as stated in the very next verse: "Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ" (Colossians 3:24).

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Cross-References

  • Colossians 3:17 (196 votes)

    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.

  • Ephesians 6:6 (167 votes)

    Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;

  • Ephesians 6:7 (167 votes)

    With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men:

  • Romans 14:8 (91 votes)

    For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.

  • 2 Chronicles 31:21 (86 votes)

    And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did [it] with all his heart, and prospered.

  • Ecclesiastes 9:10 (84 votes)

    Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do [it] with thy might; for [there is] no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.

  • 1 Peter 2:15 (72 votes)

    For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: