Colossians 3:16 ESV
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
In Colossians 3:16, the Apostle Paul is writing to the Christian community in Colossae, emphasizing the importance of allowing the teachings of Christ to deeply permeate their lives. To understand this verse in its context, it's essential to look at the broader passage in Colossians 3.
St.Paul begins this chapter by exhorting believers to set their minds on things above, focusing on heavenly realities rather than earthly desires (Colossians 3:1-2). He urges them to put to death their sinful nature and to clothe themselves with qualities that reflect Christ, such as compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience (Colossians 3:5-14).
In verse 16, St.Paul encourages the Colossian believers to let the word of Christ dwell in them richly. This instruction carries several implications:
Indwelling of the Word: The phrase "let the word of Christ dwell in you richly" emphasizes the necessity of allowing the teachings, principles, and message of Jesus Christ to deeply inhabit and influence every aspect of their lives. It's not merely about having knowledge of Christ's words but allowing them to actively shape their thoughts, actions, and interactions.
Teaching and Admonishing: St.Paul advises the Colossians to teach and admonish one another in all wisdom. This indicates the communal aspect of Christian living. Believers are called to instruct and correct each other using the wisdom derived from Christ's teachings. It's about mutual encouragement and guidance in living according to Christ's standards.
Singing Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs: This is a reference to the expression of worship through music. Singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs was a common practice in early Christian gatherings. These songs served to reinforce Christian doctrine, encourage believers, and express gratitude and praise to God.
Thankfulness: The verse concludes with an emphasis on gratitude. Believers are encouraged to engage in these activities—teaching, singing, and admonishing—while maintaining a heart filled with thankfulness to God. Gratitude is a recurring theme in Paul's letters, highlighting the importance of a grateful attitude as an integral part of Christian living.
Colossians 3:16 underscores the importance of allowing the teachings of Christ to deeply influence the lives of believers. It encourages mutual teaching and admonishing within the Christian community, accompanied by expressions of worship and gratitude, all rooted in the richness of Christ's teachings.
