Colossians 3:13

Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Study Bible

Bear with one another
The phrase "Bear with one another" calls believers to exercise patience and tolerance. The Greek word used here is "anechomai," which means to endure or hold up. In the context of the early church, which was a diverse body of Jews and Gentiles, this exhortation was crucial for maintaining unity. The call to bear with one another is a reminder of the need for humility and understanding, recognizing that each person is a work in progress. This patience is not passive but active, requiring a conscious effort to support and uplift fellow believers, reflecting the love and patience God shows us.

and forgive any complaint
The word "forgive" comes from the Greek "charizomai," which implies a gracious pardon. This forgiveness is not contingent on the other person's actions but is a deliberate choice to release any grievance. The term "complaint" suggests a legitimate grievance or cause for dissatisfaction. In the historical context of the Colossian church, interpersonal conflicts could arise from cultural differences or misunderstandings. The instruction to forgive any complaint underscores the importance of prioritizing relationships over personal grievances, fostering a community that mirrors Christ's love and grace.

you may have against someone else
This phrase emphasizes personal responsibility in the act of forgiveness. The Greek construction indicates an ongoing action, suggesting that forgiveness is a continual process. The early church faced many challenges, including persecution and internal strife, making this directive particularly relevant. By addressing "someone else," the text acknowledges the reality of conflict within the community but also points to the higher calling of reconciliation. This reflects the biblical principle that believers are to be peacemakers, actively seeking to resolve conflicts and restore relationships.

Forgive as the Lord forgave you
The standard for forgiveness is set by the example of Christ. The Greek word for "forgave" is "charizomai," the same as earlier, highlighting the grace inherent in forgiveness. The phrase "as the Lord forgave you" serves as a powerful reminder of the depth of Christ's forgiveness, which is complete and unconditional. Historically, this would resonate deeply with the Colossians, who were taught about the sacrificial love of Jesus. This call to forgive as the Lord forgave is not just a moral obligation but a transformative act that aligns believers with the heart of God, fostering a community that reflects His kingdom on earth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Colossians, Paul was writing to the church in Colossae to address various theological and practical issues.

2. Colossae
An ancient city in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) where the church was located. The Colossian church was dealing with false teachings and needed guidance on Christian living.

3. The Colossian Church
The recipients of Paul's letter, they were a community of believers striving to live out their faith amidst cultural and doctrinal challenges.

4. The Lord (Jesus Christ)
Central to the message of forgiveness, as believers are called to forgive as He forgave.

5. The Early Christian Community
The broader context in which these teachings were applied, emphasizing unity and love among believers.

Teaching Points

The Call to Bear with One Another
Christians are encouraged to exercise patience and understanding, recognizing that everyone has faults and weaknesses.

The Nature of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is not optional but a command, reflecting the forgiveness we have received from Christ.

Forgiveness as a Reflection of Christ's Love
Our ability to forgive others is a testament to the transformative power of Christ's love in our lives.

The Role of Forgiveness in Community
Forgiveness fosters unity and peace within the Christian community, preventing bitterness and division.

Practical Steps to Forgive
Engage in prayer, seek God's strength, and remember Christ's example when struggling to forgive.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the context of the Colossian church help us apply Colossians 3:13 in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we "bear with one another" in our current church or community setting?

3. How does the command to forgive as the Lord forgave us challenge our natural inclinations towards holding grudges?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to forgive someone who has wronged you, in light of the teachings of Colossians 3:13 and related scriptures?

5. How can the practice of forgiveness impact the unity and witness of the Christian community today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ephesians 4:32
This verse also emphasizes forgiveness, urging believers to be kind and compassionate, forgiving each other just as God forgave them in Christ.

Matthew 6:14-15
Jesus teaches about the importance of forgiveness, stating that if we forgive others, our heavenly Father will also forgive us.

Mark 11:25
Highlights the necessity of forgiving others when we stand praying, so that our own sins may be forgiven.

Luke 17:3-4
Jesus instructs His disciples on the importance of forgiving a brother who repents, even if he sins multiple times.

1 Peter 4:8
Stresses the importance of love, which covers a multitude of sins, aligning with the call to bear with one another.