King James Version
What Does Colossians 3:18 Mean?
“Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.”
Context
16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
17
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
18
Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.
19
Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.
20
Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers[**6.Special Exhortation as to the relations of life. **
(1)THE DUTY OF WIVES AND HUSBANDS (Colossians 3:18-19).
(2)THE DUTY OF CHILDREN AND PARENTS (Colossians 3:20-21).
(3)THE DUTY OF SLAVES AND MASTERS (Colossians 3:22 to Colossians 4:1).]
(18) **As it is fit in the Lord.**—For the explanation of this special fitness “in the Lord,” *i.e., *in virtue of Christian unity, see the grand description of Ephesians 5:23-24; Ephesians 5:32-33.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 3:18 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 3:18
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge