New Testament

Colossians 3:18

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the focus is on the relationship between wives and husbands.

Author
Paul the apostle
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Letter (epistle)
Original Audience
The church in Colossae
CBTClear Bible Translation

Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.

KJVKing James Version

Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the focus is on the relationship between wives and husbands. It encourages wives to support their husbands in a way that aligns with their values and beliefs. This idea of submission is not about being inferior; rather, it’s about mutual respect and partnership. When wives choose to submit, it reflects a commitment to their marriage and a desire to create harmony at home. This submission is described as fitting in the Lord, meaning it should be done with a sense of purpose and integrity. It’s important to understand that this is not a call for blind obedience but rather a call to work together in love and respect. Both partners should strive to uplift each other, creating a balanced and loving relationship. Ultimately, this verse highlights the importance of cooperation and understanding in a marriage, encouraging both partners to support one another in their roles. It’s about building a strong foundation based on love, respect, and shared values, which can lead to a fulfilling partnership.

Key themes

Related topics

marriage, respect, surrender

How to apply Colossians 3:18 to your life

Consider how you can support your partner in daily life. Reflect on ways to communicate openly and respectfully. Remember that a strong relationship is built on mutual understanding and cooperation, where both partners feel valued and heard. Embrace the idea of working together as a team in your marriage. This can lead to a deeper connection and harmony at home.

Curated for this public verse page. Colossians Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Colossians 3:18 mean?

Colossians 3:18 encourages wives to support their husbands in a way that aligns with their values. It emphasizes mutual respect and partnership, suggesting that submission is about cooperation rather than inferiority.

What is the meaning of submission in Colossians 3:18?

In Colossians 3:18, submission refers to a wife's choice to support her husband, reflecting commitment and harmony in the marriage. It is not about blind obedience but about working together in love and respect.

How can I apply Colossians 3:18 in my marriage?

To apply Colossians 3:18, consider ways to support your partner daily and communicate openly. Embrace teamwork in your relationship to build a deeper connection and create harmony at home.

Does Colossians 3:18 mean wives are inferior?

No, Colossians 3:18 does not imply that wives are inferior. It emphasizes mutual respect and partnership, where submission is about cooperation and commitment to the marriage.

The Book of Colossians
Book Summary

The Book of Colossians

Colossians 1: Thanksgiving, Prayer, and the Preeminence of Christ

Paul and Timotheus greet the saints and faithful brethren in Christ at Colosse and speak of grace and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul gives thanks for their faith in Christ Jesus and their love for all saints, which grow from the hope laid up in heaven. He says they learn the truth of the gospel from Epaphras, a faithful minister of Christ, who declares their love in the Spirit. Paul prays that they are filled with the knowledge of God's will, walk worthy of the Lord, bear fruit in every good work, grow in the knowledge of God, and are strengthened with patience and joy. He says God delivers them from the power of darkness and brings them into the kingdom of his dear Son, in whom they have redemption through his blood and forgiveness of sins.

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