King James Version

What Does Colossians 2:6 Mean?

Colossians 2:6 in the King James Version says “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:” — study this verse from Colossians chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:”

Colossians 2:6 · KJV

Context

4

And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.

5

For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.

6

As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:

7

Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.

8

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. rudiments: or, elements make a prey: or, seduce you, or, lead you astray

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
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.

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Historical & Cultural 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 Questions

  1. Have you added requirements to Christ that weren't part of your conversion—special experiences, knowledge, or practices?
  2. How does your current spiritual life compare to your initial conversion—same foundation or different approach?
  3. What does 'walking in Christ' look like practically in daily decisions, relationships, and priorities?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 11 words
Ὡς1 of 11

“As”

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

οὖν2 of 11

“therefore”

G3767

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

παρελάβετε3 of 11

“received”

G3880

to receive near, i.e., associate with oneself (in any familiar or intimate act or relation); by analogy, to assume an office; figuratively, to learn

τὸν4 of 11
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Χριστὸν5 of 11

“Christ”

G5547

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

Ἰησοῦν6 of 11

“Jesus”

G2424

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

τὸν7 of 11
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κύριον8 of 11

“the Lord”

G2962

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

ἐν9 of 11

“in”

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

αὐτῷ10 of 11

“him”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

περιπατεῖτε11 of 11

“so walk ye”

G4043

to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Colossians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Colossians 2:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Colossians 2:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Colossians 1:101 John 2:61 Thessalonians 4:1Ephesians 5:1-2Galatians 2:202 Corinthians 5:7

Test Your Knowledge

Colossians 2 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterColossians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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