Colossians 3:20

Colossians 3:20, in plain English

Children, obey your parents in all things, because that's what pleases the Lord—it's part of honoring them.

Why it's here

Paul's addressing children directly here, likely younger members of the household who would have been present when this letter was read. In Colossian culture, children had little voice or authority, so this command might seem obvious. But Paul adds something important: the reason to obey is not just fear of punishment but that it pleases the Lord. This gives obedience a spiritual dimension. It also connects to the fifth commandment: honor your father and mother. He says 'in all things' but this would be understood within the boundaries of what's right—not if parents commanded something sinful.

Who's speaking

Paul

Where it sits in the story

This appears identically in Ephesians 6:1 and connects to Exodus 20:12 and Deuteronomy 5:16. It's one of the Ten Commandments, making it foundational to a healthy society and, according to Paul, foundational to pleasing God.

The scholarly reading

Children, obey your parents in everything, understanding such obedience as pleasing to God and consistent with your Christian identity.

Language and setting

Paul's command to children's obedience (Greek: ὑπακούω, hypakouo—literal obedience to spoken command) functions within the household code framework. The phrase 'in everything' (ἐν πᾶσιν, en pasin) qualifies obedience as comprehensive, reflecting the absolute authority parents exercised in Roman law (patria potestas). The grounding 'for this is pleasing to the Lord' (τοῦτο γὰρ εὐάρεστόν ἐστιν ἐν κυρίῳ, touto gar euareston estin en kyrio) theologically sanctions parental authority while subordinating it to Christ's lordship.

Voice

Paul, addressing the generational dimension of household order.

Significance

This reflects Ephesians 6:1-3's parallel command and echoes the Decalogue's fifth commandment honoring parents (Exodus 20:12). It preserves traditional family structures while Christianizing them, requiring parental authority to operate under Christ's constraints—implicit in Ephesians 6:4's prohibition of exasperating children and demand for their gentle training.

18Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.

19Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.

20Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord.

21Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they will not become discouraged.

22Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything, not only to please them while they are watching, but with sincerity of heart and fear of the Lord.

Read all of Colossians 3 — You have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. Strip off the old self like worn-out clothing and put on compassion, kindness, and love.