Colossians 3:25

But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.

But {G1161} he that doeth wrong {G91} shall receive {G2865} for the wrong {G91} which {G3739} he hath done {G91}: and {G2532} there is {G2076} no {G3756} respect of persons {G4382}.

Donโ€™t worry โ€” whoever is doing wrong will be paid in kind for his wrong, and there is no favoritism shown.

Whoever does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism.

For he that doeth wrong shall receive again for the wrong that he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.

Commentary

Colossians 3:25 (KJV) delivers a powerful statement on divine justice and impartiality, concluding Paulโ€™s instructions regarding various household relationships, particularly those between servants and masters.

Context

This verse serves as a crucial capstone to Paul's exhortations in Colossians 3:18-24. After addressing wives and husbands, children and parents, Paul focuses on the conduct of bondservants (often translated as "servants" or "slaves" in the KJV) and their masters. He urges servants to work heartily, "as to the Lord, and not unto men" (Colossians 3:23), with the promise of an inheritance as reward. Verse 25 then acts as a solemn warning to both parties โ€“ masters and servants alike โ€“ that any wrongdoing will be met with equitable judgment from God, regardless of their earthly status. This principle extends beyond the direct context to all forms of injustice, ensuring that all are accountable to the same heavenly authority, as also highlighted in Colossians 4:1.

Key Themes

  • Divine Justice and Accountability: The verse unequivocally states that "he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done." This highlights the certainty of God's justice, where every action, good or bad, will have its corresponding consequence. It assures believers that ultimate justice will prevail, even if it is not seen immediately on earth.
  • God's Impartiality: The profound declaration "and there is no respect of persons" emphasizes God's absolute fairness. The Greek word for "respect of persons" is prosลpolฤ“mpsia, meaning "partiality" or "favoritism." It signifies that God does not judge based on social standing, wealth, race, gender, or any outward appearance. He judges all individuals by the same righteous standard. This concept is foundational to Christian theology, affirming God's character as just and unbiased, as also stated in Romans 2:11 and Acts 10:34.
  • Equality Before God: In a society marked by stark social hierarchies, this verse was revolutionary. It leveled the playing field, reminding both the powerful master and the lowly servant that they are equally accountable to the same heavenly Master. This principle fosters humility in those with authority and offers dignity and hope to those who are oppressed.

Practical Application

Colossians 3:25 has timeless relevance for Christian conduct today:

  • Ethical Conduct in All Spheres: It calls believers to uphold high standards of integrity and fairness in all their relationships, whether in the workplace, family, or community. It reminds employers, employees, leaders, and followers alike that their actions are observed and judged by God.
  • Comfort for the Oppressed: For those who have suffered injustice or wrongdoing, this verse offers immense comfort. It assures them that while earthly systems may fail, God's ultimate justice will ensure that every wrong is addressed and that no one escapes accountability before Him.
  • Warning for the Powerful: It serves as a stern warning to anyone in a position of authority โ€“ whether a parent, employer, or leader โ€“ against abusing their power or acting unjustly. The reminder that God shows no favoritism should encourage humility and righteous leadership.
  • Motivation for Righteous Living: Knowing that God is impartial and will bring every deed to light should motivate believers to live righteously, serving Christ in all they do, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 5:10.

Ultimately, Colossians 3:25 powerfully reinforces the truth that God's character is one of perfect justice and absolute impartiality, holding all humanity to account for their actions without favoritism.

Note: If the commentary doesnโ€™t appear instantly, please allow 2โ€“5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Acts 10:34

    ยถ Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

  • Romans 2:11

    For there is no respect of persons with God.

  • 2 Corinthians 5:10

    For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things [done] in [his] body, according to that he hath done, whether [it be] good or bad.

  • Deuteronomy 10:17

    For the LORD your God [is] God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:6

    That no [man] go beyond and defraud his brother in [any] matter: because that the Lord [is] the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.

  • 1 Peter 1:17

    And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning [here] in fear:

  • Deuteronomy 1:17

    Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; [but] ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment [is] God's: and the cause that is too hard for you, bring [it] unto me, and I will hear it.