Colossians 3:7
In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.
Original Language Analysis
οἷς
the which
G3739
οἷς
the which
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
2 of 10
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
περιεπατήσατέ
walked
G4043
περιεπατήσατέ
walked
Strong's:
G4043
Word #:
5 of 10
to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)
Cross References
Ephesians 2:2Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:1 Corinthians 6:11And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.Titus 3:3For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.Colossians 2:13And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;Romans 7:5For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death.
Historical Context
Colossae's pagan culture featured rampant sexual immorality, materialism, and idolatry. Paul doesn't excuse former behavior as cultural relativism but acknowledges it as past reality now decisively changed through Christ. This establishes pattern for Christian ethics: grace doesn't accommodate cultural sin but transforms lives to reflect God's holiness. Early Christianity's moral transformation attracted attention and sometimes persecution from those threatened by its ethical demands.
Questions for Reflection
- How vividly do you remember your pre-conversion lifestyle, and does this memory fuel humility and gratitude?
- What evidence of genuine transformation exists since conversion—not perfection but definite change?
- Where might you excuse current sin by appealing to cultural norms rather than biblical standards?
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Analysis & Commentary
In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. Paul reminds believers of their past: "ye also walked" (periepatēsate kai hymeis, περιεπατήσατε καὶ ὑμεῖς). Aorist tense indicates completed past action—they formerly lived this way but no longer. "Walked" means habitual conduct; "lived in them" (ezēte en autois, ἐζῆτε ἐν αὐτοῖς) indicates the sins formed their environment and identity. They were immersed in this moral filth.
This reminder serves dual purpose: first, humbling believers by recalling their former deadness, preventing spiritual pride; second, emphasizing transformation's reality—they were changed, no longer defined by these sins. Past lifestyle doesn't excuse continued sin but proves gospel power: what they were is not what they are. Grace transforms; converted sinners become saints.