What is the meaning of Colossians 3:20? Children Paul directly addresses sons and daughters living under the roof and authority of their parents. Scripture consistently recognizes the younger generation as capable of hearing and responding to God’s voice—think of Samuel hearing the Lord in 1 Samuel 3:1–10 or the young Jesus submitting to Joseph and Mary in Luke 2:51. By singling out “children,” Colossians 3:20 confirms that faith is not reserved for adults; it calls the whole household into active discipleship. Obey “Obey” is stronger than “listen” or “respect.” It means placing the will of one’s parents above personal preference, unless that will conflicts with God’s explicit commands (Acts 5:29). • Ephesians 6:1–3 echoes the same charge, linking obedience to the promise of well-being. • Proverbs 6:20–22 portrays parental commands as a lamp that guards and guides. • Exodus 20:12 places honor for parents within the Ten Commandments, showing that family order springs from God’s moral law. Your parents The verse mentions both father and mother. Honor is not selective; it is owed to both (Proverbs 1:8-9). In a day when fathers were often central and mothers sidelined, Scripture elevates the authority of both parents equally, reflecting Genesis 2:24’s portrait of a united parental team. In everything The scope is comprehensive. Everyday chores, attitudes, and speech are included, not just major life decisions. • Jesus modeled this holistic submission during His youth, “He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was submissive to them” (Luke 2:51). • When obedience to parents would clearly violate God’s Word, the child must obey the higher authority (Matthew 10:37). Apart from such rare exceptions, “in everything” means no compartment is exempt. For this is pleasing to the Lord The motivation for obedience is not parental convenience but divine delight. • Hebrews 13:16 reminds us, “with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Every willing act of obedience becomes an offering God receives with joy. • Colossians 3:17 frames the wider context: “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Child-parent relationships become arenas where Christ’s lordship is lived out. • By pleasing the Lord, children testify to a watching world that the gospel transforms household dynamics (Titus 2:10). summary Colossians 3:20 calls every son and daughter under parental care to wholehearted, comprehensive obedience. This command honors both parents equally and reflects God’s design for family order. Obedience is an act of worship that delights the Lord and showcases the transforming power of the gospel in daily life. |
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