Colossians 3:23
Bible verses · Also called: Col 3:23, Colossians 3.23, As to the Lord, Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, Do it heartily, as to the Lord
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And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
The text is the New Korean Revised Version (1998), shown under a licence from the Korean Bible Society. Wording may differ slightly from the Korean Revised Version and the Revised New Korean Standard Version. Read in the Korean Revised Version
An exhortation that reads, "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men." It is one of the best-known verses connecting one's occupation and everyday work with faith, but because it was originally addressed to servants (slaves), questions have been raised about the scope of its application.
Context
Colossians 3:18–4:1 is a so-called "household code" that addresses in turn the relationships between wives and husbands, children and parents, and servants and masters. Verse 23 falls within the instructions addressed to servants (3:22–25). Paul tells servants to work not with eyeservice but in the fear of the Lord, and says that they will receive from the Lord the reward of the inheritance. Then, in 4:1, he likewise instructs masters, knowing that they also have a Master in heaven, to treat their servants with justice and fairness.
Interpretation
- As a principle of vocation: The Reformers, including Martin Luther, taught that not only the work of monks and priests is holy but that the work of farmers and craftsmen is also a vocation in the service of God. This verse is frequently cited in support of this doctrine of vocation.
- As a transformation of motive: This reading focuses on a change in the reason for and attitude toward work rather than in the kind of work performed. Its central point is understood to be working with an eye to the Lord rather than to human approval.
- In light of the social structure: Some interpreters hold that the verse should be read with two facts in view: Paul did not directly call for the abolition of slavery, yet he also placed masters under the same accountability before the Lord.
Questions Concerning Application
Critics have noted that this verse has been used in churches and workplaces to justify unpaid service, excessive labor, and poor treatment. They argue that when words originally given to the powerless as comfort and as an affirmation of their dignity are turned by the powerful into grounds for making demands, the context is inverted. Accordingly, some maintain that whenever this verse is cited, 4:1, with its words of accountability addressed to masters, should be read alongside it. At the same time, there is broad agreement that applying the verse as a general principle of faithfully carrying out one's assigned work is reasonable.
In the Korean Church
The verse is frequently used in workplace Christian fellowships, New Year dedication services for church officers, and training for church volunteers, and it is sometimes displayed as the corporate motto or slogan of Christian-owned businesses.
Related Passages
- Ephesians 6:5–9
- 1 Corinthians 10:31
- Colossians 3:17
- Colossians 4:1
See also 6
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