Colossians 2:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Colossians 2:6
6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:
Chapter Context
Colossians 2 is a christological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, righteousness, wisdom. Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (c. 60-62 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Syncretistic philosophy threatened to compromise the sufficiency of Christ.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Colossians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Colossians 2:6
6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:
Analysis
As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him. This pivotal verse establishes the epistle's practical section. "Received" (parelabete, παρελάβετε) refers to accepting apostolic tradition—Christ Jesus as Lord (sovereign ruler), not merely helpful teacher or mystical guide. Initial reception determines ongoing conduct; conversion establishes pattern for sanctification. The gospel received at conversion contains everything needed for lifelong faithfulness.
"Walk in him" (peripateite en autō, περιπατεῖτε ἐν αὐτῷ) means continuous daily conduct within the sphere of union with Christ. Present imperative indicates ongoing command: keep walking as you began walking. The Colossian heresy suggested that simple faith in Christ initiated spiritual life but advanced techniques enabled progress. Paul counters: walk the same way you started—by faith in Christ's sufficiency, not supplementary methods.
Historical Context
Ancient mystery religions typically featured progressive stages: initial purification, intermediate instruction, advanced revelation. The Colossian teaching apparently proposed similar stages, treating faith in Christ as elementary step requiring supplementation for spiritual maturity. Paul demolishes such thinking: Christ is both starting point and entire path. Mature faith deepens understanding and application of Christ, not abandoning Him for advanced techniques.
Reflection
- Have you added requirements to Christ that weren't part of your conversion—special experiences, knowledge, or practices?
- How does your current spiritual life compare to your initial conversion—same foundation or different approach?
- What does 'walking in Christ' look like practically in daily decisions, relationships, and priorities?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Jesus: Colossians 3:17, 1 Thessalonians 4:1, 1 John 5:20
- References Christ: Galatians 2:20, Hebrews 3:14
- References Lord: Colossians 1:10, Ephesians 4:1
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 5:7, 1 John 2:6, Jude 1:3