PARAGRAPH DIVISIONS OF MODERN TRANSLATIONS
| UBS4 | NKJV | NRSV | TEV | NJB |
| Children and Parents | Children and Parents | The Christian Household | Children and Parents | The Morals of the Home |
| (5:21-6:9) | (5:21-6:9) | |||
| 6:1-4 | 6:1-4 | 6:1-3 | 6:1-3 | 6:1-4 |
| 6:4 | 6:4 | |||
| Slaves and Masters | Servants and Masters | Slaves and Masters | ||
| 6:5-9 | 6:5-9 | 6:5-8 | 6:5-8 | 6:5-9 |
| 6:9 | 6:9 | |||
| The Battle Against Evil | The Whole Armor of God | God’s Armor and the Christian’s Warfare | The Whole Armor of God | The Spiritual Warfare |
| 6:10-20 | 6:10-20 | 6:10-17 | 6:10-13 | 6:10-13 |
| 6:14-20 | 6:14-17 | |||
| 6:18-20 | 6:18-20 | |||
| Final Greetings | A Gracious Greeting | Personal Matters and Benediction | Final Greetings | Personal News and Final Salutation |
| 6:21-22 | 6:21-24 | 6:21-22 | 6:21-22 | 6:21-22 |
| 6:23-24 | 6:23-24 | 6:23-24 | 6:23-24 |
READING CYCLE THREE (from “A
Guide to Good Bible Reading“)
FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR’S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study guide
commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of
the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the
Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a
commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects.
Compare your subject divisions with the five modern translations. Paragraphing
is not inspired, but it is the key to following the original author’s intent,
which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one main
subject.
1. First paragraph
2. Second paragraph
3. Third paragraph
4. Etc.
CONTEXTUAL INSIGHTS TO 6:1-9
A. This literary unit begins in 5:22 as Paul
uses the Christian home as one example of how the Spirit-filled life (cf. 5:18)
impacts daily life.
B. Paul’s domestic example addresses three
pairs:
1. wives and husbands
2. children and parents
3. house slaves and masters
C. Paul first addresses those who had no cultural rights or
power (wives, children, slaves), but he also addresses those in power (husbands,
parents, slave owners).
D. This domestic example deals exclusively with a Christian
home. The power of mutual respect and love sets the pattern. This context does
not address the issue of only one party of the three pairs being Christian.
Believers’ actions toward others is determined by their relationship to Christ
and not by the worth or performance of the other party.
WORD AND PHRASE STUDY
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT 6:1-3
1Children,
obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2honor
your father and mother (which is the first commandment with a promise),
3so that it may be well with you, and that you may
live long on the earth.
6:1 “children” It is uncertain what age is referred
to here. In Jewish life a boy became a man, responsible to the Law and
marriageable, at the age of 13 (i.e., bar mitzvah); a girl became a woman
at the age of 12 (i.e.,
bath mitzvah). In Roman culture a boy became a man at age 14, in Greek
culture, at age 18.
▣ “obey” This is a present active
imperative which is a compound Greek term from “to hear” and “under.” The
Colossians parallel adds “in all things.” This obedience must be for a set
period of time (childhood). Even this command must be balanced with Matt.
10:34-39. Ultimate authority is not parental, but divine.
▣ “in the Lord” This phrase is omitted in the ancient
Greek uncial manuscripts B, D4, F and G, but it is present in P46,
א , A, and D1 as well as the Vulgate, Peshitta, Coptic and
Armenian translations. Its inclusion makes definite that the context is the
Christian home. This context implies both a Christian child and Christian
parents.
▣ “for this is right” The Bible clearly expresses the
God-given relationship between parents and children (cf. Col. 3:20; Pro. 6:20;
23:27). Strong families make strong societies.
6:2 “honor” This is a present active
imperative. It is a quote from the Ten Commandments (cf. Exod. 20:12;
Deut. 5:16). “Honor” was a commercial term which meant “to give due weight to.”
It reflected the OT concept of that which is “heavy” is valuable. Parents are to
be respected and valued by Christian children. There are no perfect parents (as
there are no perfect children).
▣ “father and mother” This shows that both parents
deserve honor and respect.
▣ “(which is the first commandment with a promise)”
This quote in v. 3 is used in Deuteronomy in several different contexts (cf.
4:40; 5:16,33; 30:17-18). It is not an individual promise of longevity but a
cultural promise of societal stability. Notice that Paul, by quoting the Ten
Commandments, shows that the Law (Genesis-Deuteronomy) was still in effect as
far as revelatory guidance for the Christian (cf. 4:25,26; Rom. 10:4; 13:9-10;
Gal. 2:15-21) but not for salvation (cf. Galatians 3).
6:3 “on earth” Paul adapted the OT quote from “In the
land that the Lord your God has given you” (cf. Exod. 20:12; Deut. 5:16) and
turned it into a general principle. The NT authors often took OT promises to
Israel and adapted them into universal truths.
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 6:4
4Fathers, do not provoke
your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of
the Lord.
6:4
NASB, NKJV,
NRSV“fathers”
TEV, NJB“parents”
The Greek text has “fathers.” The modern English
dynamic equivalent translations (TEV and NJB) have widened the meaning because
of v. 2, where both father and mother are mentioned. However, in the larger
context of 5:21-6:9, Paul addresses first the three groups who had no social
rights-wives, children, slaves-and then addresses the ones who had all the
rights-husbands, fathers, and masters. There is a spiritual responsibility for
every member of a Christian home.
▣ “do not provoke” This is a
present active imperative with the negative particle
which usually means to stop an act already in process (cf. Col. 3:21). Like
5:25, this was the needed balance, in the Greco-Roman world, and ours. Fathers
are not ultimate authorities, but Christian stewards of their families.
Christian fathers must understand their
stewardship role in the lives of their children. Fathers are not to teach
personal preferences, but spiritual truths. The goal is not parental authority,
but passing on God’s authority to children. There is always a generation gap,
but never a divine authority gap. Children do not have to reflect parental
habits, choices, or lifestyle to be pleasing to God. We must be careful of the
desire to mold our children into our current cultural understanding or to
reflect our personal preferences.
As a local pastor near a large state school, I noticed
that many of the wildest young people came from conservative Christian homes
which allowed them no personal choices or freedoms. Freedom is a heady
experience and must be introduced in responsible stages. Christian children must
develop lives based on personal conviction and faith, not second-hand parental
guidelines.
▣ “bring them up” This is a present
active imperative which comes from the same word root, “to feed to
maturity,” as in 5:29. As it is the husband’s responsibility to continue to help
his wife grow to spiritual maturity and giftedness, he is also to help his
children reach their full spiritual maturity and giftedness (cf. 4:7).
NASB, NRSV“in the discipline and
instruction of the Lord”
NKJV“in the training and admonition of the Lord”
TEV“Christian discipline and instruction”
NJB“correct them and guide them as the Lord does”
The first term is from the Greek root for
“child” and refers to the parental training of children (cf. Heb. 12:5,7,8,11)
and for the Lord’s training of believers (cf. II Tim. 3:16).
The second term is the general term for warning,
correction, or admonition (cf. I Cor. 10:11; Titus 3:10). The training of
children in the faith was a major emphasis of Judaism (cf. Deut. 4:9; 6:7-9,
20-25; 11:18-21; 32:46). Parental training recognizes the necessity of passing
on the personal faith and the Scriptural truths of God, not the personal
preferences, or cultural opinions of parents, to the next generation.
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 6:5-8
5Slaves, be obedient to
those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in
the sincerity of your heart, as to Christ; 6not by way of eye
service, as men-pleasers, but as slaves of Christ, doing the
will of God from the heart. 7With good will render service, as to the
Lord, and not to men, 8knowing that whatever good thing each one
does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether slave or free.
6:5 “slaves” This is Paul’s third domestic example to
show how being filled with the Spirit makes a difference in daily life (cf. Col.
3:22). “Slaves” (douloi) refers to household servants.
▣ “be obedient” This is a Present
active imperative. There is a great parallel passage in I Pet. 2:18-21.
There is an obvious parallel between wives, children and servants, except that
wives were not commanded to obey as children (for a period) and slaves are.
SPECIAL TOPIC: PAUL’S ADMONITIONS TO SLAVES
▣ “who are
your masters according to the flesh” Here the Greek term flesh (sarx)
is used in the sense of the physical, not of evil. This general truth relates to
both the Christian masters and pagan masters (i.e., to both kind and unkind
bosses). Notice the phrase “in the Lord” is not found here as in the two
previous domestic examples (cf. 5:21 and 6:1).
Modern western culture does not have slaves, yet this
spiritual truth surely applies to Christian employers and Christian employees.
▣ “with fear and trembling” This is a metaphor of
respect (cf. I Cor. 2:3; II Cor. 7:15; Phil. 2:12).
▣ “in sincerity of heart” This
is a metaphor from the term “singleness.” It is used in two ways in the NT (1)
sincerity (cf. II Col. 1:12; 11:3; Col. 3:22) or (2) liberality (cf. Rom. 12:8;
II Cor. 8:2; 9:11,13). In this context it is obviously #1. A believer’s
motivation is always the key to proper action, not observation (cf. vv. 6-7).
Believers live out their lives in every area as unto the Lord (cf. Col. 3:22-25
and Rom. 14:7-9)! They are motivated not by the worth or merit of another, but
by who they are in Christ.
Christian husbands love their wives not because the
wives are perfect or deserve it but because they are Christians. This is true of
all human interpersonal relationships. Believers love God by loving others made
in His image, for whom He died (cf. I John 2:9,11; 4:20). See Special Topic:
Heart at Col. 2:2.
▣ “as to Christ” Believers act toward others because
of their relationship to Christ, not because of what the others deserve (cf.
5:22; Rom. 14:7-9). This is true of husbands and wives, parents and children,
masters and slaves. Believers make people priority because of God’s image and
love for them, not because of their personal merit.
6:8 “knowing that whatever good
thing” This context is not a worship setting but believers’ daily
relationships with others, fellow Christians and nonbelievers. God is concerned
with all our actions. There is no secular; all is sacred!
Verse 8a is a third class conditional
sentence meaning potential future action. Believers are expected to do
good works (cf. Eph. 1:4; 2:10; 4:17-5:14). Believers are not right with God
by good works but they are saved unto good works.
▣ “will receive back from the Lord” God is watching
believers’ lives and they will give an account (cf. II Cor. 5:10). The Bible
does speak of rewards (cf. Matt. 5:12,46; 6:1-2; 10:41-42; Luke 6:23, 35; I Cor.
3:8, 14; 9:17-18; II John 8; Rev. 11:18; 14:13; 22:12) and crowns (cf. I Cor.
9:25; II Tim. 4:8; James 1:23; I Pet. 5:4; Rev. 2:10). Paul was stating a
general principle similar to Gal. 6:7-9.
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 6:9
9And masters, do the same
things to them, and give up threatening, knowing that both their Master and
yours is in heaven, and there is no partiality with Him.
6:9 “masters” This is still the same literary context
as 5:22-6:9, which is Paul’s domestic example of the “Spirit-filled” life in
action. In this verse the masters referred to are obviously believers, while in
v. 5 they might be either believers or nonbelievers.
▣ “do the same things to them” This is a
present active imperative. Here again is the needed balance to slave
owners, as 5:29 is to husbands and 6:4 is to parents. Each must act out of godly
(Spirit-filled) principles, not social privilege. Jesus’ golden rule (Matt.
7:12) applies here.
▣ “give up threatening” This is a
present active participle used as an imperative.
The word literally means “to loosen up.”
▣ “there is no partiality with Him” The term
“partiality” is a compound from “face” and “to lift.” It denotes an OT judge
acting fairly without lifting the face of the accused to see if he recognized
him/her. God is no respecter of persons (cf. Deut. 10:17; Acts 10:34; Rom. 2:11;
Gal. 2:6; Col. 3:25; I Pet. 1:17). All earthly
distinctions fade away in Christ (cf. Rom. 3:22; Gal. 3:26,28; Col. 3:11). See
Special Topic: Racism at Col. 3:11.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide
commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of
the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the
Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a
commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you
think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be
thought provoking, not definitive.
1. Why was this passage so startling for Paul’s day?
2. Does it stress rights or duties?
3. What is this passage saying about women? Should this
passage be used as a guideline for our day?
4. How is v. 21 related to 5:22-6:9?
5. Should children always obey parents? Define “children.”
6. Can the slave/master relationship be analogous to
employee/employer?
7. How are wives and children related to slaves?
CONTEXTUAL INSIGHT TO 6:10-24
A. The Christian life is a spiritual struggle.
Problems, suffering, and persecution are not abnormal, but normal, for
Christians in a fallen world (cf. Rom. 5:3-4; 8:17-18; I Pet. 1;6-9; 2:11;
4:12-17; 5:10).
B. The spiritual battle may be related
contextually to the present passive imperative, “be
filled with the Spirit,” of 5:18 and the present passive
(or middle, see note at 5:22) imperative “be
made strong in the Lord,” 6:10. As the filling is related to daily
Christlikeness (Col. 3:16) so too, is the spiritual battle. People are priority
with God. The battleground is interpersonal relationships on a daily basis. Only
people are eternal. Although these passives speak of
God’s power, the Christian must allow the Spirit to work in their lives.
Covenant involves two parties, two choices.
C. We must be careful of two extremes: (1)
Satan causes everything and (2) there is no personal evil. I assume because of
OT monotheism that Satan is a created being and a controlled being (cf. I Kgs.
22:19-23; Job 1-2; Zech. 3:1-5; and possibly by analogy Isa. 14:12-14; or even
Ezek. 28:12-16). He is neither omnipresent, nor omniscient. Satan has been
mentioned earlier in the letter in 2:2 and 4:14,27! He is only one of three
enemies that Christians face daily-the world, Satan (and his), and the flesh
(cf. 2:2-3; James 4).
D. God provides our spiritual armor and
weapons, but believers must (1) recognize the daily spiritual battle and (2)
avail themselves, by faith, of God’s resources and then (3) stand (cf. vv.
11,13,14). Spiritual maturity is not automatic, nor is it based on longevity, IQ
(i.e., intelligence), or giftedness..
E. Verses 21-22 are almost identical to Col.
4:7-8. This is additional evidence of the close relationship between these two
books. However, it is interesting that the entire discussion of spiritual
warfare is omitted in Colossians. Each book has its own uniqueness.
WORD AND PHRASE STUDY
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 6:10-17
10Finally, be
strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. 11Put on the
full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of
the devil.
12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the
rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against
the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13Therefore,
take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil
day, and having done everything, to stand firm. 14Stand firm
therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and
having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15and having
shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
16in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be
able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17And
take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the
Spirit, which is the word of God.
6:10 “finally” Literally this is “for the rest.” This
is a characteristic Pauline phrase implying he is about to close his letter (cf.
II Cor. 13:11; Phil. 3:1; 4:8; I Thess. 4:1; II Thess. 3:1). It usually marks a
transition to a new point.
▣ “be strong in the Lord” This
is either a present passive imperative, “be made
strong,” or a present middle imperative, “be strong.”
The grammatical form is the same, only the function is different. The theology
is clear: believers must continue to allow the Spirit to strengthen them for the
ongoing spiritual struggle (cf. 3:20; I Cor. 16:13).
This paradox between the
passive voice (God’s power flowing through believers) and the
middle voice (believers actively involved in living for Christ) is the
dialectical tension found throughout the Bible. Basically it is the tension of a
covenant relationship (cf. Phil. 2:12-13). God always takes the initiative,
always sets the agenda, but He has also chosen that humans must respond
(initially and continually). Sometimes the Bible emphasizes mankind’s response
(Ezek. 18:31, “Make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit”) and sometimes
God’s provision (cf. Ezek. 36:26-27, “I will give you a new heart and put a new
spirit within you.”). Both are true!
Four Greek terms (dunamis = power; energeia
= energy; kratos = strength and ischus = might) are used in 1:10
to describe God’s power in Christ. Here, three of these same words are used.
▣ “in the strength of His might” YHWH was often
described in the OT as a warrior wearing armor (cf. Isa. 42:13; 49:24-25; 52:10
and especially 59:16-17). It is His armor, not ours. Our victory is in Him (cf.
Phil. 2:13), but we must cooperate (cf. Phil. 4:12).
6:11 “put on the full armor of God” This is an
aorist middle imperative which conveys a sense of urgency (cf. 6:13).
This is a decisive act of the believer’s will. God has provided our needed
spiritual equipment, but we must recognize the need and avail ourselves of God’s
provision and apply it to our daily lives (cf. I Thess. 5:8). Justification
(Romans 4; 6) does not provide a deliverance from spiritual struggle and
temptation (cf. Romans 7). The presence of the “new man” does not imply the
total removal of the “old man.” Often the battle is intensified. If Satan cannot
keep us from being saved, he will attempt to keep us spiritually defeated and
silenced!
▣ “that you may be able to stand firm” This is a
present passive infinitive followed by an aorist active
infinitive, which refers to the daily struggle, not one decisive “battle”
or temptation (this is similar to Jesus’ temptation in Luke 4:13, where Satan
departs until a more opportune time). The term “stand” is a military term for
holding one’s position. It is repeated in vv. 13 and 14. It is the key purpose
of the believer’s armor.
SPECIAL TOPIC: STAND (HISTĒMI)
NASB“against the schemes of the
devil”
NKJV, NRSV“against the wiles of the devil”
TEV“against the devil’s evil tricks”
NJB“the devil’s tactics”
Christians are attacked by an angelic tempter,
Satan (cf. 2:2; 4:14,27; II Cor. 2:11; I Pet. 5:8-9). Satan uses many schemes (methodia).
1. disunity
2. personal sin
3. false teachers
4. discouragement
5. apathy
6. suffering
These are just some things that the recipients of this
letter faced. However, believers cannot attribute all sin and problems to
angelic temptation or attack. Fallen mankind, even redeemed fallen mankind,
faces (1) a continuing sin nature; (2) a fallen world system; and (3) an angelic
and demonic attack (cf. Eph. 2:2-3; James. 4:1,4,7). The battle starts in the
mind but moves quickly to sinful acts. For the Special Topic: Personal Evil see
2:2.
Notice the numbers of times “against” appears in this
context (once in v.11 and four times in v. 12). The panoply of evil is thwarted
by the panoply of God’s armor!
6:12
NASB, NRSV“our struggle is not”
NKJV“we do not wrestle”
TEV“we are not fighting against”
NJB“we have to struggle”
This is a present tense verb
which implies an ongoing struggle, not a one-time temptation. This was either a
military or athletic metaphor. It literally refers to hand-to-hand combat. The
Christian life is tough! The Christian life is a supernatural gift lived out by
repentance and faith, as is salvation.
▣ “against flesh and blood” The word order is
literally “blood and flesh.” Notice the abnormal sequence of these terms. It is
found only here and in Heb. 2:14. The reason is uncertain, but it may be related
to the Gnostic false teachers’ depreciation of the physical (Jesus’ humanity).
Believers must remember the spiritual problem is sin, evil, and Satan, not
competition from other human beings!
▣ “against the rulers; against the
powers” These terms can be used of human authorities as in Rom. 13:1-7,
but here the context demands angelic levels (aeons) of authority (cf.
Rom. 8:38-39; I Cor. 2:8; Col. 1:16; 2:10,15; Eph. 1:21; 3:10; I Pet. 3:22).
This was part of the Gnostic false teachers’ worldview. These angelic levels (aeons)
may be
1. evil, that is, fallen angels under Satan’s
control, the demonic
2. the angelic authorities called the
stoichea who are not necessarily evil (cf. Gal. 4:3,9; Col. 2:8)
For a good discussion of the subject see Hendrik
Berkhof, Christ and the Powers (Herald Press).
For “rulers” see Special Topic: Archē at Col.
1:16.
SPECIAL TOPIC: ANGELS IN PAUL’S WRITINGS
SPECIAL TOPIC: THE DEMONIC (UNCLEAN SPIRIT)
NASB“against the world-forces of
this darkness”
NKJV“against the rulers of the darkness of this age”
NRSV“against the cosmic powers of this present
darkness”
TEV“against the cosmic powers of this dark age”
NJB“the spiritual army of evil in the heavens”
This is the Greek term kosmocrator in its
plural form. This term is used in the Greek Classics and the writings of
the Jewish rabbis to describe someone bent on world control. This seems to speak
of Satan (cf. John 12:31; 14:30; II Cor. 4:4; Eph. 2:2) and the demonic (cf. I
Cor. 2:6,8 15:24; Eph. 3:10; 6:12; Col. 2:15).
▣ “against the spirit-forces of wickedness” This
phrase was used in Paul’s day by astrologers who believed there were angels or
gods behind the heavenly bodies (cf. Rom. 8:39) that affected human life
(zodiac). This all began with Babylonian astrology. It is still alive and well
(horoscopes).
NASB, NKJV,
NRSV“in the heavenly places”
TEV“in the heavenly world”
NJB“in the heavens”
This locative (of
sphere) neuter plural adjective “in the heavenly
places” is used only in Ephesians (cf. 1:20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12). From the context
of all of its usages (esp. 3:10 and 6:12), it must mean the spiritual realm in
which believers live here and now, not heaven by and by.
6:13 “you must take up the full armor
of God” This is an aorist active imperative which
showed the need for decisive action (cf. v.11). It is another military term. It
is possibly an allusion to YHWH as warrior from Isa. 59:17. The armor is
mentioned in the order in which it would have been put on by a soldier (remember
Paul wrote this from prison).
Notice the full armor is God’s armor! He provides, but
believers must recognize the battle and implement God’s sufficient provision.
▣ “you may be able to resist” This is an
aorist passive (deponent) subjunctive with an
aorist active infinitive. There is a spiritual battle before and after
conversion. Some believers do not know there is an ongoing, spiritual battle;
they do not take up God’s armor and they do not resist. The terminology is
similar to James 4:7 and I Pet. 5:9. Christians can lose or damage their peace,
assurance, and gifted ministry through (1)ignorance; (2) neglect; and/or (3) sin
(cf. I Cor. 9:27; 15:2; Gal. 2:2; 3:4; Phil. 2:16; I Tim. 1:19). This does not
refer to heaven or hell, but effective kingdom service!
▣ “in the evil day” This is an OT idiom which could
refer to (1) a day of temptation; (2) the whole evil age in which we live; or
(3) a day of adversity (cf. Ps. 49:5ff).
▣ “having done everything”
This term had the connotation of one having done everything that was required.
Paul uses this term more than eighteen times in his letters. In the spiritual
realm (1) preparation; (2) consistency; and (3) knowledge are crucial!
▣ “stand firm” This is an
aorist active infinitive meaning “to stand fast.” The same term is used
in vv. 11 (present passive infinitive) and 14 (aorist
active imperative). Believers are commanded and encouraged to resist,
overcome, and stand against the schemes of the devil (cf. 4:14). This is done by
means of
1. the believers’ knowledge of the gospel (the
helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, v. 17)
2. the believer’s position in Christ
3. the believers’ yieldedness to the indwelling
Spirit
4. the believers’ implementation of the armor
provided by God
5. the believer’s decisive choices and actions
6. prayer (cf. v. 18)
See Special Topic: Stand at 6:11.
6:14 Three of the following
four participles are taken from passages in Isaiah. They
are all grammatically related to this aorist active imperative,
“stand” in v. 13 (this structure is like 5:18, imperative
followed by five participles, 5:19-21).
1. “having
girded” aorist middle participle (v. 14). This is
a quote from Isa.11:5 where it was used of the Messiah.
2. “having put on”
aorist middle participle (v. 14). This is a quote from Isa. 59:17, where
it is used of God as a warrior on behalf of sinful Israel (cf. 59:12).
3. “having shod”
aorist middle participle (v. 15). This is a quote from Isa. 52:7, where
the Lord comes to His people as a King bringing good news (cf. 61:1).
4. “taking up”
aorist active participle (v. 16, cf. v. 13). This is implied in Isa.
59:17. God’s provisions must be implemented in daily life.
▣ “truth” There is not an article
in Greek, so it may be translated in the OT sense of “truthfulness” or
“trustworthiness.” See Special Topic at 1:13.
▣ “the breastplate” This is
one of the pieces of armor listed in Isa. 59:17, as is the helmet of v. 17.
▣ “of righteousness” This refers to Christ’s
righteousness (cf. II Cor. 5:21). However, like the dialectical tension related
to strengthening in v. 10, it is both Christ’s imputed righteousness (positional
justification and sanctification) and His followers’ progressive Christlikeness
(progressive sanctification) that brings victory in the daily spiritual
struggle. See Special Topic at 4:24.
6:15 “having shod your feet with the preparation of the
gospel of peace” This either refers to (1) readiness (cf. Isa. 52:7) or
(2) a sure foundation (cf. NEB translation). Believers must be prepared for the
spiritual struggle that will surely come.
6:16 “in addition” The KJV translates this as “above
all,” but it means in addition to the above mentioned military battle armor.
▣ “the shield” This term is related to the Greek word
for “door.” It refers to the large 4′ x 2′ full-body shield. It was made of wood
with leather coverings surrounded by metal. It was soaked in water before battle
so as to extinguish the fire-tipped arrows. It was a symbol of full protection.
▣ “flaming missiles” This refers to arrows dipped in
pitch and lighted. These were metaphorical of spiritual attacks.
▣ “the evil one” There is an ambiguity as to whether
it refers to evil in general (neuter) or Satan in
particular (masculine). This same ambiguity can be seen
in Matt. 5:37; 6:13; 13:38; John 17:15; II Thess. 3:3; I John 2:13-14. The form
of the word in Greek is the same (therefore, the gender
can only be ascertained from context). In Matt. 13:19; I John 5:18-19 it
obviously refers to Satan (see Special Topic at Eph. 2:2).
6:17 “take the helmet of salvation” This is an
aorist middle (deponent) imperative. It is
symbolic of believers’ knowledge of the gospel and their hope in Christ (cf. I
Thess. 5:8).
▣ “the sword of the Spirit, which is
the word of God” Paul specifically defines the believers’ offensive
weapons (i.e., Bible knowledge and prayer, v. 18). This was an allusion to an OT
metaphor for God speaking to His people (cf. Isa. 49:2; Hosea 6:5). God’s
revelation (both the living Word, Jesus Christ, and the written word, the Bible)
is described in these same terms in Heb. 4:12. Although a different Greek term
for “word” (rhēma versus logos) is used in Hebrews, the term for
“sword” is the same (the small tongue-shaped Roman weapon).
It is dangerous to draw too sharp a distinction
between parallel terms in Koine Greek (it was the language of commerce and the
distinctions of Classical Greek were fading) like “rhēma” and “logos.”
This may refer to the use of the Scriptures during temptation, like Jesus did in
Matt. 4:1ff. Believers’ knowledge of the gospel will protect them in their daily
spiritual struggles. This is why Scripture memorization and personal Bible study
are so valuable (cf. Ps. 19:7-11; 119:105; Pro. 6:23). This is the only
offensive weapon listed among the armor (although I think prayer in v. 18 is
another). It is for protection. As in vv. 18-20 it can be used for Kingdom
advance!
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 6:18-20
18With all
prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be
on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, 19and
pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my
mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, 20for
which I am an ambassador in chains; that in proclaiming it I may speak
boldly, as I ought to speak.
6:18 “with all prayer and petition, pray at all times”
Notice the number of times the inclusive term “all” is used in v. 18. Prayer is
another powerful weapon in the spiritual battle which is the Christian’s daily
life in this fallen age. Paul requested prayer for himself in v. 19 (cf. Col.
4:3-4; I Thess. 5:17). He did not ask for personal issues but for clarity and
boldness in gospel proclamation (cf. Col. 4:3-4). It is interesting to note that
Paul does not discuss the spiritual battle in Colossians but he does emphasize
the need for prayer (cf. Col. 4:2).
▣ “in the Spirit” The term
“spirit” has no article (ananthrous). This can be
understood in different ways. It may refer to
1. the Spirit praying for believers ( cf. Rom.
8:26-27)
2. Christians praying in spiritual power (cf.
Jude v. 20)
3. parallel to John 4:23 “in spirit and truth”
4. “spirit” as distinct from “mind” (cf. I Cor.
14:14-15)
Effective, fervent prayer is impossible without the
Spirit’s involvement!
Notice the aspects of spirit-led prayer:
1. at all times
2. in the Spirit
3. be alert with perseverance
4. pray for all the saints
▣ “for all the saints” See
Special Topic: Saints at Col. 1:2.
6:19 “pray on my behalf”
Paul asked for prayer, not for himself personally, but for the power to present
the gospel clearly as he spoke during his trials before the Roman authorities
(cf. Col. 4:3; I Thess. 5:25; II Thess. 3:1):
1. “that utterance may be given me” (v. 19)
2. “to make known with boldness the mystery of
the Gospel” (v. 19 “freedom of speech,” cf. 3:12; Heb. 4:16; 10:19,35).
3. “I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak”
(v. 20; Col. 4:4).
SPECIAL TOPIC: EFFECTIVE PRAYER
▣ “with boldness” See Special Topic: Boldness (Parrhēsia)
at Col. 2:15.
▣ “mystery of the gospel” Paul uses this term in
several different ways describing God’s redemptive plan. Here it refers to the
believing Jews and Gentiles being one body in Christ. This concept is clearly
spelled out in 2:11-3:13. The term appears in 1:9; 3:3,4,9; 5:32. See Special
Topic at 3:3.
6:20 “I am an ambassador in chains” Paul understood
his apostleship to the Gentiles as both a stewardship (I Cor. 4:1; 9:17; Titus
1:7) and an ambassadorship (cf. II Cor. 5:20). He was in prison to preach the
gospel to the Roman authorities in Rome, as he had to the authorities in Judea
(cf. Acts 9:15).
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 6:21-22
21But that you also may
know about my circumstances, how I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and
faithful minister in the Lord, will make everything known to you. 22I
have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know about us, and
that he may comfort your hearts.
6:21 “Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in
the Lord” He is mentioned in Acts 20:4; Col. 4:7; Titus 3:12; II Tim.
4:12. He was the bearer of the letter. Also, he probably carried the letters of
Colossians and Philemon to Asia Minor and was accompanied by Onesimus. He also
possibly may have carried the letter of Ephesians to all the churches of Asia
Minor. He also may have functioned as Paul’s scribe, like Tertius of Rom. 16:22.
6:21-22 These verses are the same in Greek as Col.
4:7-8, except Colossians adds “fellow bond servant,” which shows that Paul
probably wrote the two books close to the same time.
6:22 Paul wanted the churches to know of his
circumstances so that they could pray for him and not worry about him. He felt
he was in God’s plan for his life and ministry (cf. Acts 9:15).
▣ “hearts” See Special Topic at Col. 2:2.
▣ One wonders if Paul himself did not pen this verse
as well as 6:23-24.
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: 6:23-24
23Peace be to the
brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
24Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with
incorruptible love.
6:23-24 These same themes opened the letter! Paul
usually penned the closing thoughts himself to authenticate his letters.
6:24
NASB“with a love incorruptible”
NKJV“in sincerity”
NRSV“an undying love”
TEV“with undying love”
NJB“eternal life”
This term usually means “incorruptible” (cf. I Cor.
9:25; 15:52; I Tim. 1:17). It had the connotation of something unchanging and
eternal. This was an encouragement in light of the confusion and conflict caused
by the false teachers and the personal spiritual battle.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide
commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of
the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the
Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a
commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you
think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be
thought provoking, not definitive.
1. Is there a personal force of evil in our world?
2. What is our responsibility in spiritual struggle?
3. Why does Paul use warfare as a description of the
Christian life?
4. What does Paul ask for himself?
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