New Testament
Colossians 1:24
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and in my flesh, I am filling up what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ for the sake of his body, which is the church.
Compare translations
Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church:
What Colossians 1:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul expresses his joy in enduring hardships for the benefit of others, specifically the church. He sees his struggles as a way to contribute to the greater mission of Christ. By suffering, he believes he is helping to complete what is lacking in Christ's own afflictions. This doesn't mean Christ's sacrifice was insufficient; rather, it highlights the ongoing work of the church in the world. Paul identifies himself as part of the body of Christ, emphasizing the connection between his experiences and the community of believers. His willingness to suffer for others reflects a deep commitment to their spiritual growth and well-being. This perspective encourages us to view our own challenges as opportunities to support and uplift those around us. Ultimately, it’s about finding purpose in our pain and recognizing that our struggles can lead to greater good for others. Paul’s message reminds us that love often involves sacrifice, and through our trials, we can contribute to something much larger than ourselves.
How to apply Colossians 1:24 to your life
Consider how your own challenges can serve others. When facing difficulties, think about how you can use those experiences to support someone else. Embrace the idea that your struggles can lead to growth, both for you and for those around you. Find ways to share your journey with others to inspire them in their own trials. Remember, love often requires sacrifice, and that can be a powerful force for good in the world around you.
Curated for this public verse page. Colossians Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Colossians 1:24
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Colossians 1:24
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Colossians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Colossae
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Colossians 1:24 mean?
Colossians 1:24 means that Paul finds joy in his sufferings because they contribute to the well-being of the church. He believes that his hardships help fulfill the ongoing mission of Christ, emphasizing the connection between his struggles and the community of believers.
What is the meaning of 'filling up what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ' in Colossians 1:24?
The phrase 'filling up what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ' suggests that while Christ's sacrifice was complete, the ongoing work of the church involves enduring hardships. Paul sees his own sufferings as part of this mission, helping to advance the message of Christ.
How can I apply Colossians 1:24 to my life?
You can apply Colossians 1:24 by viewing your own challenges as opportunities to help others. Consider how your experiences can inspire or support those around you, recognizing that love often involves sacrifice.
What themes are present in Colossians 1:24?
The themes present in Colossians 1:24 include suffering, joy, community, sacrifice, and spiritual growth. These themes emphasize the importance of enduring hardships for the benefit of others and the collective mission of the church.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.