Colossians 3:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Colossians 3:6
6 For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:
Chapter Context
Colossians 3 is a christological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, judgment, mercy. 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 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 3:6
6 For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:
Analysis
For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience. Paul provides motivation: divine judgment. "The wrath of God" (hē orgē tou theou, ἡ ὀργὴ τοῦ θεοῦ) isn't emotional outburst but settled opposition to sin, God's holy response to moral evil. "Cometh" (erchetai, ἔρχεται) uses present tense, possibly indicating certainty (prophetic present) or ongoing reality (wrath already operative through sin's consequences).
"Children of disobedience" (tous huious tēs apeitheias, τοὺς υἱοὺς τῆς ἀπειθείας) describes those characterized by persistent rebellion against God. Semitic idiom "children/sons of" indicates essential character. These aren't occasional sinners but individuals defined by disobedience, refusing God's authority. God's wrath justly falls on such rebellion. Believers escaped this wrath through Christ (1 Thessalonians 1:10) but shouldn't presume upon grace by continuing in sin.
Historical Context
Roman culture mocked divine judgment as primitive superstition. Epicurean philosophy taught that gods, if existing, had no interest in human affairs. Stoicism viewed fate as impersonal necessity. Against such backdrop, Paul's insistence on personal divine judgment—holy God responding actively to human sin—was countercultural. Yet this doctrine provided moral framework and ultimate justice, holding powerful accountable and promising vindication for the oppressed.
Reflection
- How does belief in God's wrath against sin affect your view of sin's seriousness?
- Do you presume upon grace, treating sin casually because you're forgiven, or does gratitude motivate holiness?
- How would you explain God's wrath to someone who views God as cosmic grandfather tolerating everything?
Word Studies
- Wrath: ὀργή (Orgē) G3709 - Wrath, anger
Cross-References
- Judgment: Romans 1:18, Ephesians 5:6
- Parallel theme: 1 Peter 1:14