Traditional Lens Commentary: Colossians 3:18-4:1

Traditional Lens Reading of Colossians 3:18-4:1

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage as a divine mandate for order and harmony in Christian households and relationships, reflecting Christ's lordship over all aspects of life. Paul's instructions to wives, husbands, children, and servants are not merely cultural artifacts but are grounded in the created order and the redemptive purpose of God. The submission of wives, the love of husbands, and the obedience of children are expressions of the transformative power of the gospel in family life. The call for slaves to obey earthly masters is understood within its historical context, emphasizing service 'as to the Lord' and recognizing the spiritual equality of all believers in Christ.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek text, the term 'hypotasso' (ὑποτάσσω) is crucial, as it denotes a voluntary submission, reflecting the order established by God. The use of 'agapao' (ἀγαπάω) for husbands loving their wives indicates a self-sacrificial love, mirroring Christ's love for the church. The phrase 'ta kata sarka' (τὰ κατὰ σάρκα) for masters is significant, reminding both servants and masters of their ultimate accountability to the Lord. This tradition emphasizes the plain meaning of these terms as aligning with the overarching biblical narrative of creation and redemption.

Where Traditions Diverge

This tradition diverges from more progressive readings that might see these instructions as culturally bound and not applicable today. Unlike liberal traditions that may reinterpret or dismiss these commands as patriarchal, we affirm their continued relevance as part of God's unchanging moral order. This matters theologically because it upholds the authority of Scripture and the divine order instituted at creation.

Pastoral Application

A Traditional Lens pastor should preach this passage by emphasizing the transformative power of the gospel in personal relationships. We should encourage our congregations to embody these virtues within their families as a testimony to the world of Christ's reconciling work. Pastors should remind husbands of their call to self-sacrificial love and wives of their role in supporting their husbands, always pointing to Christ's example. The congregation would expect clear teaching on the equality and dignity of all people, even within differing roles, rooted in the gospel's call to serve one another in love.

Cross-References: Ephesians 5:22-6:9; 1 Peter 3:1-7; Genesis 2:18-25; 1 Corinthians 7:10-16; Galatians 3:28

Doctrinal Connections: Biblical authority; The inherent dignity of all people as image-bearers; The sanctity of marriage as a divine institution; Substitutionary atonement; The lordship of Christ over all of life