What does Colossians 2:6 mean?

Explanation

The verse Colossians 2:6 admonishes believers to continue living according to the teachings and example of Jesus Christ, in the same manner as they initially embraced Him when they became Christians.

The phrase "as ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord" refers to their conversion and initial acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

The instruction "so walk ye in him" is a metaphorical way of telling them to conduct their lives in a manner that is consistent with their faith and in alignment with the teachings of Jesus.

The implication is that faith in Christ should be an active, ongoing process that affects how one lives every day.

Historical Context

The Epistle to the Colossians was written by the Apostle Paul, likely while he was in prison in Rome, around A.D. 60-62.

This letter was addressed to the Christian congregation in Colossae, a city in Asia Minor.

During this period, the early church faced various challenges from both Judaizers (who argued that Gentile converts must adhere to Jewish law) and Gnosticism (which introduced mystical beliefs and strict asceticism).

Paul’s epistle intended to counter these false teachings and reaffirm the sufficiency of Christ.

Theological Insights

Colossians 2:6 holds significance for a broad spectrum of theological perspectives.

For Evangelical Christians, this verse reinforces the doctrine of ongoing sanctification, the process by which believers become more like Christ after their initial justification or salvation.

For Catholic and Orthodox Christians, it emphasizes the importance of continued growth in spiritual life through participation in the sacraments and the Church.

Reformed theologians might focus on the perseverance of the saints, suggesting that true believers will "walk" in Him as evidence of their genuine faith.

Practical Applications

The teaching of this verse can be applied in daily life in various ways.

It encourages believers to continually nurture their relationship with Christ through practices such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other Christians.

It calls for integrity and consistency between one’s professed beliefs and their actions.

This verse also serves as a reminder to continually seek spiritual growth and maturity, and to resist the temptation to revert to pre-conversion habits or to be influenced by false teachings.

Cross-References

• 1 John 2:6: "He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked."
• Galatians 2:20: "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."
• Romans 6:4: "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."
• Ephesians 4:1: "I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called,"
• Philippians 1:27: "Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;"

Language Study

In Colossians 2:6, key words such as "received" (Greek: paralambanō), "Christ" (Greek: Christos), "Jesus" (Greek: Iēsous), "Lord" (Greek: Kyrios), and "walk" (Greek: peripateō) carry significant meaning.

"Received" implies a willing acceptance, while "Christ Jesus the Lord" is a title expressing Jesus's roles as the Messiah, Savior, and divine ruler.

The term "walk" (peripateō) is often used metaphorically in the New Testament to denote one’s way of life or conduct.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this Christian concept with other religious traditions, one might look at the idea of living according to the ideals of a spiritual leader or teachings, a common theme in many religions.

In Buddhism, for example, followers strive to live in accordance with the Eightfold Path as taught by Buddha.

In Hinduism, adherents seek to live a life of dharma in alignment with their spiritual understandings.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse doesn't directly intersect with the empirical sciences, it does pertain to psychological studies on behavior, character formation, and the influence of beliefs on actions.

Psychological research supports the idea that deeply held beliefs and values significantly impact an individual's behavior and decision-making process.

Commentaries

Many biblical scholars and theologians have provided commentaries on Colossians 2:6.

Matthew Henry comments on the importance of being rooted and built up in Christ, not being moved away from the hope of the gospel.

John Calvin emphasizes the correct order, first to receive Christ, then to walk in Him, pointing out that genuine knowledge of Christ should lead to conforming our lives to His.

Contemporary biblical scholars might draw attention to the personal and communal aspects of "walking in Christ," suggesting it entails both individual moral conduct and participation in the life of the Church.