Colossians 3:20

“Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.”

Historical and Contextual Background:The book of Colossians was written by the Apostle Paul, most likely during his imprisonment in Rome around AD 60-62. The letter was addressed to the church in Colossae, a city in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). The purpose of the letter was to combat false teachings and encourage the believers in their faith.

Understanding the Verse:Colossians 3:20 focuses on the duty of children to obey their parents. Paul addresses children specifically, emphasizing their responsibility to listen and submit to their parents’ authority. The verse reveals that such obedience is not only a social and familial obligation but also carries spiritual significance, as it is pleasing to the Lord.

• The Importance of Obedience:Obedience to parents is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. It is a fundamental principle of respecting authority, learning discipline, and cultivating a healthy family structure. The Ten Commandments include honouring one’s father and mother (Exodus 20:12). Jesus Himself affirmed this principle when He criticised the religious leaders for disregarding their responsibility to care for their parents (Matthew 15:3-6). Obedience to parents also serves as a foundation for learning obedience to God’s authority.

“In All Things”:The phrase “obey your parents in all things” indicates that children are to obey their parents in every area of life, as long as their parents’ instructions do not contradict God’s commands. This general obedience includes areas such as chores, schoolwork, behaviour, and moral values. It teaches children the importance of respect, submission, and learning from their parents’ wisdom.

Pleasing God:Paul states that obeying parents is “well pleasing unto the Lord.” This means that children’s obedience is not solely for the sake of their parents but also has spiritual significance. It pleases God when children honour and obey their parents because it aligns with His design for family and authority. This obedience reflects a heart of humility, respect, and trust in God’s ordained structures.

Application:

• For children: Show respect and honour to your parents by obeying their instructions.
• For children: Seek to understand the reasons behind their guidance and correction.
• For children: Be willing to listen, learn, and grow in wisdom as you submit to their authority.
• For children: Pray for strength and grace to obey, even when it is difficult.

For parents: Teach and model godly principles and values to your children.

For parents: Exercise your authority with love, fairness, and consistency.

For parents: Provide clear and reasonable expectations for your children.

For parents: Seek to guide and discipline your children in a manner that points them toward Christ.

Overall, Colossians 3:20 highlights the importance of children obeying their parents, not only in practical matters but also as an act of pleasing God. Obedience to parents sets a foundation for obedience to God and fosters healthy relationships within the family.