Colossians 3:22

Ndebele Bible - 2010

Zisebenzi, lisesaba uNkulunkulu;

What Does This Mean?

This verse tells servants to obey their masters completely and sincerely, not just when they are being watched, but because they fear God. It's about true heart-felt obedience.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a pet dog. You want the dog to behave well not just when you're watching, but all the time because it loves you. That's what this verse is talking about—being good and doing your job well all the time because you respect God.

Historical Background

The letter of Colossians was written by Paul around AD 60-70 to a community in Colossae, Asia Minor. This letter addresses various issues including how believers should live their lives, emphasizing obedience and sincerity towards masters as an act of worshipping God.

Living It Out Today

In today's context, this verse can apply to the workplace where employees are encouraged not just to appear diligent but to genuinely give their best effort out of respect for a higher authority, which in this case could be seen as doing it for themselves and their faith.

Topics

• obedience
• servanthood
• respect
• integrity
• worship through obedience
• fear of God

Related Verses

• Ephesians 6:5-7
• 1 Peter 2:18
• Titus 2:9
• Deuteronomy 10:12-13
• Matthew 6:24

Recommended Reading

Commentary Colossians Commentaries → Get This Bible Ndebele Bible - Study Bible →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this verse mean slaves should obey their masters without questioning?

It emphasizes sincere and heartfelt obedience, not blind compliance. The focus is on doing your duty sincerely as a form of worship to God.

How does fearing God relate to obeying masters?

Fearing God means having respect for divine authority, which translates into how one conducts themselves in their duties, ensuring they are sincere and not just outwardly obedient.

Is this verse applicable only to servants or slaves?

This principle extends beyond historical contexts to all roles where service is rendered. It encourages genuine effort out of respect for a higher authority.

How can one apply the concept of 'eyeservice' in modern workplaces?

'Eyeservice' means doing things only when watched, which this verse discourages. Modern application would be performing duties with sincerity and integrity regardless of supervision.