Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
What does Colossians 3:12 mean?
We must not only do no hurt to any, but do what good we can to all. Those who are the elect of God, holy and beloved, ought to be lowly and compassionate towards all.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside Colossians 3:12-15 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Colossians 3:12
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Put on, therefore, as the elect of God - The fact that you thus belong to one and the same church; that you have been redeemed by the sameblood, and chosen by the same grace, and that you are all brethren, should lead you to manifest a spirit of kindness, gentleness, and love. Bowels of mercies - Notes, Philippians 2:1 . Kindness ... - See the notes at Ephesians 4:32 . The language here is a little different from what it is there, but the sentiment is the same.
Context in Colossians 3
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Colossians 3 belongs to the late movement of the book, especially the section often described as new life in Christ. Colossians magnifies Christ as image, creator, reconciler, head of the church, and the one in whom believers are complete. Read this chapter with the wider themes of supremacy of Christ, fullness, and reconciliation in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
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Passages on compassion, tender-heartedness, the kindness of God, and practical instructions to show kindness to others.
A guided collection of passages on God’s love, neighbor-love, steadfast covenant love, and the shape of love in Christian life.
Verses on the fear of the Lord, wise speech, practical judgment, teachability, and the difference between biblical wisdom and mere cleverness.
Passages on lowliness, modesty, the contrast between pride and humility, and the way God exalts those who humble themselves.