Colossians 3:18 - 4:1 - Three Key Relationships - Part 2
In Colossians 3:12-14 Paul spelled out some general attitudes and characteristics which should be in the lives of Christians. The paragraph beginning with Colossians 3:18 makes specific application of those general attitudes and characteristics to three key life relationships:
- Verses 18-19 – The husband/wife relationship
- Verses 20-21 – The parent/child relationship
- Verses 22-4:1 – The master/slave relationship
It is important to understand that this paragraph is talking more about responsibilities than privileges. As you read this, focus more on what you are to do than what the other person is to do.
Parent/child relationship (verses 20-21)
- “Children, be obedient to your parents in all things, for this is well-pleasing to the Lord.” (20) – The foundation of this duty is the 5th commandment which instructs us to honor our fathers and our mothers. The phrase “in all things” is limited by our highest obligation which is to God. There could be a rare situation where one’s higher obligation to obey God would take precedence over one’s obligation to obey his/her parents.
- “Fathers, do not exasperate your children, that they may not lose heart.” (21) – The word translated “fathers” can mean parents in general. The idea behind this phrase is do not be impossible to please. While parents must discipline their children, they must also encourage their children.
For more detailed notes on Colossians go to http://www.larryreynolds.org-a.googlepages.com/home)
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