What Does Colossians 3:20 Say?

Colossians 3:20 is a verse in the New Testament that holds a straightforward yet profound message.

If you’re curious about its meaning and how it applies to daily life, you’ve come to the right place.

Let’s delve into this verse, its context, and why it’s significant for both children and adults.

The Verse Itself

First, let’s look at the verse from the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible:

“Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.” — Colossians 3:20 (NIV)

It’s a simple directive, but there’s a lot packed into these few words.

Here’s what you need to know about Colossians 3:20 and its relevance to both biblical times and today.

Understanding the Context

Colossians is one of the letters the Apostle Paul wrote while he was imprisoned in Rome.

He addressed it to the church in Colossae, a city in present-day Turkey.

The overarching theme of the letter is to encourage Christians to live in a way that honors Jesus Christ, emphasizing their new life in Him.

In Chapter 3, Paul gives practical advice on how to live as a Christian.

He starts by urging believers to set their minds on things above (Colossians 3:2) and to put to death their earthly nature (Colossians 3:5).

Then, he provides guidance on how various relationships should be handled, including the relationship between children and their parents.

Why Obedience?

The Role of Children

Paul’s instruction for children to obey their parents isn’t just a rule for the sake of having rules.

It serves several purposes:

Order in the Family: Families need structure.

When children obey their parents, it helps maintain order and peace in the household.

Learning Respect: Obedience teaches respect for authority.

This respect isn’t limited to parents but extends to other authority figures in life.

Moral and Spiritual Development: By learning to follow guidance, children can develop their character and values.

Pleasing the Lord

Paul highlights that obedience pleases the Lord. This statement connects our everyday actions with our spiritual life. Here’s why it matters:

Reflecting God’s Order: In obeying parents, children mirror the order that God designed for families and society.
Showing Faith: Obeying parents, especially in challenging situations, can be an act of faith. It’s a way of trusting that God knows best and has placed parents in a position of guidance for a reason.
Spiritual Growth: For children, obedience is part of their journey of growing in their relationship with God.

Practical Application for Today

For Children

If you’re a child or teenager, Colossians 3:20 is directly speaking to you.

Here’s how you can live this out:

Listen Actively: Pay attention when your parents give advice or instructions.

This shows respect and a willingness to learn.

Respond Positively: Try to follow their guidance with a good attitude.

Even when it’s tough, remember that obedience is part of honoring God.

Communicate Openly: If you’re unsure about something your parents ask you to do, talk to them about it.

Open communication can help you understand each other better.

For Parents

Parents also have a role in this dynamic.

If you’re a parent, here’s how you can support your children in following this verse:

Set Clear Expectations: Make sure your children understand what you expect from them and why.

Clear guidelines help them know how to obey.

Be a Role Model: Show obedience and respect in your own life.

Children learn a lot by watching their parents.

Encourage and Support: Praise your children when they obey and offer guidance when they struggle.

Encouragement can motivate them to keep trying.

For Everyone

Whether you’re a child, parent, or neither, there’s something for everyone in Colossians 3:20.

Here’s how the principle of obedience can apply more broadly:

Respect Authority: Whether it’s at work, school, or in the community, showing respect for those in authority reflects the principle of obedience Paul discusses.
Trust in God’s Plan: Just as children are asked to trust their parents’ guidance, we’re all called to trust in God’s plan for us, even when we don’t understand it fully.
Live to Please God: In every aspect of life, seek to live in a way that pleases God.

This can mean following rules, acting with integrity, and being considerate of others.

A Deeper Spiritual Meaning

Paul’s instruction in Colossians 3:20 goes beyond just family dynamics.

It taps into a deeper spiritual truth: our relationship with God.

Just as children are called to obey their parents, we are all called to obey God.

Here are some key points to consider:

God’s Authority: God is our ultimate authority. Obedience to Him is a fundamental aspect of our faith.
Jesus’ Example: Jesus Himself was obedient to God the Father, even to the point of death (Philippians 2:8).

His life is the perfect model of obedience for us to follow.

Growing in Faith: Obedience helps us grow spiritually.

It challenges us to trust God and aligns our actions with His will.

Conclusion

Colossians 3:20 may seem straightforward, but it carries significant weight.

It’s a call for children to obey their parents, fostering order, respect, and spiritual growth.

This obedience pleases the Lord, connecting everyday actions with our faith journey.

Whether you’re a child, a parent, or just someone looking to understand the Bible better, Colossians 3:20 offers valuable insights into how we can live in harmony with each other and in alignment with God’s will.

Embrace this verse as a guide for fostering respect, trust, and a deeper relationship with God.

FAQs: Understanding Colossians 3:20

1. What does Colossians 3:20 say?

Colossians 3:20 states, “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.”

This verse is a directive for children to listen to and follow the guidance of their parents.

2. Why is obedience to parents important according to Colossians 3:20?

Obedience to parents is important because it helps maintain order and respect within the family, teaches children to respect authority, and contributes to their moral and spiritual development.

Additionally, it pleases God as it aligns with His design for family dynamics.

3. How can children practice obedience according to this verse?

Children can practice obedience by:

Actively listening to their parents.
Responding positively and with a good attitude.
Communicating openly with their parents about any uncertainties or difficulties they face in following instructions.

4. What role do parents play in helping their children obey?

Parents can support their children’s obedience by:

Setting clear and understandable expectations.
Being role models of respectful and obedient behavior.
Encouraging and guiding their children through positive reinforcement and support.

5. Is Colossians 3:20 only relevant to children and parents?

While the verse specifically addresses children and their relationship with their parents, its principles can be applied more broadly.

It teaches the value of respecting authority and trusting in guidance, which can be relevant in many areas of life, including work, school, and community interactions.

6. How does Colossians 3:20 relate to our spiritual relationship with God?

Just as children are called to obey their parents, believers are called to obey God.

This verse underscores the importance of recognizing and respecting God’s authority and following His guidance.

It reflects the deeper spiritual truth of living a life that pleases God through obedience.

7. What if parents ask their children to do something wrong?

While Colossians 3:20 calls for obedience, it’s also important to remember that this obedience should align with God’s teachings.

If parents ask children to do something that goes against God’s commands or moral principles, it’s important to seek guidance from other trusted sources, such as other family members, church leaders, or counselors, to address the situation appropriately.

8. How does Colossians 3:20 connect to other biblical teachings?

Colossians 3:20 aligns with other biblical teachings about family relationships and respect for authority.

For example:

Ephesians 6:1: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.”
Proverbs 1:8-9: “Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.”

These verses collectively emphasize the importance of family harmony and respect.

9. What are practical ways for families to apply Colossians 3:20 today?

Families can apply Colossians 3:20 by:

Establishing open and respectful communication.
Setting and maintaining clear family rules and expectations.
Fostering an environment where children feel valued and heard, making obedience a natural and positive response.

10. How can understanding Colossians 3:20 enhance my spiritual growth?

Understanding and applying Colossians 3:20 can deepen your spiritual growth by reinforcing the importance of obedience to God.

It encourages you to trust in God’s authority and align your actions with His will, which are key aspects of a mature and faithful Christian life.

11. Where can I find more information about Colossians and its teachings?

You can learn more about Colossians and its teachings by:

Reading the Book of Colossians in the New Testament.
Consulting biblical commentaries and study guides.
Attending Bible study groups or seeking guidance from church leaders who can provide deeper insights into the text.

12. What are some examples of Jesus’ teachings on obedience and respect?

Jesus often spoke about the importance of obedience and respect in various contexts:

Matthew 22:21: “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s,” highlighting respect for both earthly and divine authority.
John 14:15: “If you love me, keep my commands,” emphasizing the link between love and obedience to God. These teachings reinforce the values expressed in Colossians 3:20.