Colossians 3:21

"Children, obey your parents in all things, for this pleases the Lord."

Key Reflection

In Colossians 3:21, Paul instructs children to obey their parents in everything, emphasizing that such obedience is pleasing to the Lord. This teaching reflects first-century Jewish culture where honoring and obeying one's parents was deeply rooted not only as a commandment from God (Exodus 20:12) but also as a means of ensuring longevity and blessings within the community. The verse underscores the importance of this duty in maintaining both personal piety and social harmony, aligning with broader biblical themes of submission and respect for authority.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 21. Fathers, provoke not, etc. See Barnes "Eph 6:4". Lest they be discouraged. Lest, by your continually finding fault with them, they should lose all courage, and despair of ever pleasing you. There is much sound sense and practical wisdom in this observation of the apostle. Children should not be flattered, but they should be encouraged. They should not be so praised as to make them vain and proud, but they should be commended when they do well.

Related Verses

More from Colossians 3

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

Go deeper with Bible.talk - your AI Bible study companion