What does Colossians 3:5 mean?

Explanation

Colossians 3:5 instructs believers to put to death, or completely rid themselves of, various sins that stem from earthly desires.

The term "mortify" in this context means to subdue or deny the power of these sins in one's life.

The "members" refer metaphorically to the parts of oneself that are inclined to engage in sinful behaviors.

The list of sins the verse includes, fornication (sexual sin outside of marriage), uncleanness (moral impurity), inordinate affection (unnatural lust), evil concupiscence (evil desires), and covetousness (greed), illustrates the types of personal vices that Paul urges Christians to eliminate from their lives.

By referring to covetousness as idolatry, Paul underscores the seriousness of this sin, equating it with the worship of false gods, as it replaces the desire for God with a desire for material gain or other people's possessions.

Historical Context

Colossians is an epistle written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Colossae, a small city in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey).

Its composition is traditionally dated to around 60 A.D. when Paul was in a Roman prison.

The Colossian church appears to have been facing heretical teachings and influences, possibly an early form of Gnosticism that devalued the material world and emphasized secret knowledge.

Paul's letter aimed to affirm the supremacy of Christ and correct false doctrines affecting the church.

This verse is part of a larger section where Paul is providing ethical instructions to help the believers live in a manner that reflects their new identity in Christ.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives might approach this verse in various ways.

From a conservative evangelical viewpoint, this passage is often seen as a direct command to lead a holy and disciplined life, focusing on sanctification, the process of becoming more like Christ.

The Catholic tradition might place the verse in the context of confession and penance, as it deals with recognizing sin and the need to turn away from it.

Liberation theology could interpret this call to reject sin as a broader mandate to fight against systemic injustices such as greed and exploitation, which are forms of idolatry that harm community and individual relationships with God.

Practical Applications

The instructions in Colossians 3:5 can be applied in daily life as a reminder to examine one's actions and desires continually.

Believers can reflect on areas of their lives where they may be indulging in the sins listed and seek to repent and change their behaviors.

This can involve setting healthy boundaries, seeking accountability, participating in regular worship and confession, and cultivating godly desires through prayer and the study of scripture.

Cross-References

• Romans 8:13: "For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live."
• Galatians 5:24: "And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts."
• Ephesians 5:3: "But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;"

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words such as "mortify" (νεκροῦτε, nekroúte) imply a literal death, suggesting the seriousness with which believers are to treat their sinful behaviors.

The term for "covetousness" (πλεονεξία, pleonexía) conveys a sense of greed or avarice.

"Inordinate affection" (πάθος, pathos) translates to harmful or unnatural passions, and "evil concupiscence" (ἐπιθυμία κακή, epithymía kaké) refers to evil desires.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient religions and mythologies, there are concepts of vices and virtues that share similarities with the Christian perspective.

For example, in Ancient Greek philosophy, moderation in all aspects of life is a key virtue, while excess and lack of self-control are seen as moral failings.

In Hinduism and Buddhism, desires and attachments are also seen as something to overcome to achieve spiritual enlightenment or to avoid suffering.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology might explore the call to "mortify" sinful behaviors through the lens of behavior modification, recognizing the importance of self-regulation and habit formation in enacting personal change.

Neuroscience has found that reward systems in the brain can be reoriented over time through consistent behavior.

This scientific understanding aligns with the Biblical call for discipline in ridding oneself of harmful desires and actions.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and commentators have provided insights on Colossians 3:5.

Matthew Henry, for example, emphasizes that the vices listed are earthly and belong to our corrupt nature, which must be put to death.

John Calvin notes the intensity of the command to mortify sin, asserting that it must be a thorough and serious task.

Contemporary commentaries often discuss the tension between the already-but-not-yet aspects of Christian sanctification, acknowledging the ongoing struggle with sin while also affirming the Christian's new identity in Christ.