What does Colossians 3:8 mean?

Explanation

Colossians 3:8 is an exhortation from the apostle Paul to the Christians in Colossae to reject various forms of destructive behavior.

It builds upon the previous verses which describe the believer’s new identity in Christ and urges them to "put off" sins and behaviors that are incompatible with their new, transformed life.

The list of vices to put away includes intense emotions and behaviors such as anger, wrath, and malice, as well as sins of speech like blasphemy and filthy communication, which could refer to slanderous, abusive, or obscene talk.

This phrase figuratively suggests taking off clothing, indicating that these habits should be completely discarded like old garments.

Historical Context

Paul’s Epistle to the Colossians was likely written between AD 56 and 62 while Paul was imprisoned in Rome.

Colossae was a city in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey), characterized by a diverse population with various religious and philosophical influences, including Greek, Jewish, and local pagan traditions.

The early Christian community there faced challenges in integrating their new faith with the surrounding culture.

This Epistle addressed false teachings and encouraged believers to adhere to the principles of the Christian life, distinguished by a high moral standard.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse illustrates the doctrine of sanctification, the process of being made holy.

It suggests that the Christian life involves a turning away from sin and behaviors that characterize the old life without Christ. Various denominations interpret sanctification differently.

Some view it as a gradual, lifelong process, while others believe it can happen instantly or in stages. Nevertheless, most agree that it is evidence of the transformative power of the Holy Spirit working in a believer's life.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of Colossians 3:8 are timeless. Believers are encouraged to self-reflect and identify any negative behaviors or speech patterns they may exhibit.

This verse calls for active participation in personal growth, promoting emotional self-control, and advocating for respectful and uplifting communication. In terms of modern application, this could extend to digital communication, where conversations can often become unkind or derogatory.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 4:29 - "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers."
• Ephesians 4:31 - "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice."
• Romans 6:12-13 - "Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof."
• James 1:19-20 - "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words like "orgē" (anger) and "thymos" (wrath) differentiate between long-standing resentment and sudden, explosive rage.

"Kakia" (malice) describes a general wickedness or ill will against others.

"Blasphemia" (blasphemy) can mean speaking evil against God but also includes slander against others.

"Aischrologia" refers to obscene or filthy communication, suggesting speech that is shameful or harmful.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The Jewish culture had strong moral and ceremonial laws that prohibited similar behaviors and emphasized purity of speech and action.

In Greek philosophy, particularly Stoicism, self-control and mastery over passions were highly valued, which has some parallels to the exhortation in Colossians.

Other ancient religions also had concepts of right speech and action, such as the Egyptian concept of Ma'at, which emphasized truth, balance, and order in both speech and conduct.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology supports the idea that negative behaviors such as malice and uncontrolled anger can be detrimental to an individual's well-being and social relationships.

Emphasizing positive communication and managing emotions are often key components of therapeutic practices.

From a neurological perspective, practices that correlate with this verse's advice may lead to improved mental health and reduced stress levels.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentaries provide additional insight into this verse:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary emphasizes that the Christian duty is not just to avoid evil but to grow in grace, reflecting on the destructive nature of these vices to both the individual and the community.
• The Pulpit Commentary discusses the 'putting off' as a necessary action for the 'new man' to grow in the image of Christ.
• John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible draws attention to the social dimension of these sins, noting that such behaviors not only affect the individual but also harm others and the body of Christ.