Colossians 3:11

Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, or free, but Christ is all and is in all.

Study Bible

Here there is no Greek or Jew
This phrase emphasizes the breaking down of ethnic and cultural barriers within the body of Christ. In the ancient world, Greeks and Jews represented two distinct and often opposing cultures. The Greek word for "Greek" is "Ἕλλην" (Hellēn), which refers to those who were part of the Hellenistic culture, known for its philosophy, arts, and polytheism. "Jew" comes from the Greek "Ἰουδαῖος" (Ioudaios), representing the people of Israel, chosen by God and bound by the Law of Moses. In Christ, these distinctions are rendered irrelevant, highlighting the unity and inclusivity of the Christian faith.

circumcised or uncircumcised
Circumcision was a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, a physical mark of Jewish identity and religious commitment. The Greek word for "circumcised" is "περιτομή" (peritomē), while "uncircumcised" is "ἀκροβυστία" (akrobystia). In the early church, this was a significant point of contention, as Jewish Christians often expected Gentile converts to adopt this practice. Paul asserts that in Christ, such physical distinctions are meaningless, as salvation is through faith, not adherence to the Law.

barbarian, Scythian
"Barbarian" (Greek: "βάρβαρος," barbaros) was a term used by Greeks to describe anyone who did not speak Greek or follow Greek customs, often implying a lack of civilization. The "Scythians" were a nomadic people known for their warrior culture, often considered the epitome of barbarism by the Greeks. By including these groups, Paul underscores the radical inclusivity of the Gospel, which transcends cultural sophistication or lack thereof.

slave or free
In the Roman Empire, slavery was a common institution, and social status was a significant divider. The Greek words "δοῦλος" (doulos) for "slave" and "ἐλεύθερος" (eleutheros) for "free" highlight this societal division. In Christ, these social distinctions are abolished, as all believers are equal before God. This was a revolutionary concept, challenging the very fabric of Roman society and emphasizing the transformative power of the Gospel.

but Christ is all, and in all
This phrase encapsulates the centrality of Christ in the life of a believer. "Christ" (Greek: "Χριστός," Christos) is the anointed one, the Messiah who fulfills all things. The statement "is all, and in all" signifies that Christ is the essence and purpose of all creation and that He indwells every believer, uniting them in His body. This profound truth calls Christians to live in unity, love, and humility, reflecting the character of Christ in every aspect of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Colossians
A city in ancient Phrygia, part of modern-day Turkey, where the church addressed in this letter was located.

2. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Colossians, writing to encourage and instruct the believers in Colossae.

3. Greeks and Jews
Representing the cultural and religious divide in the early church, with Greeks being Gentiles and Jews being the people of Israel.

4. Barbarians and Scythians
Terms used to describe non-Greek-speaking peoples, with Scythians being considered particularly uncivilized.

5. Slaves and Free
Social classes within the Roman Empire, highlighting the societal divisions present at the time.

Teaching Points

Unity in Christ
The verse emphasizes that in Christ, all believers are united, transcending cultural, ethnic, and social barriers. This unity is foundational to the Christian identity.

Christ as the Center
"Christ is all, and in all" signifies that Christ is the central figure in the life of every believer, and His presence is what unites us.

Breaking Down Barriers
The gospel calls us to break down barriers and prejudices that divide us, reflecting the inclusive nature of God's kingdom.

Identity in Christ
Our primary identity is found in Christ, not in our cultural, social, or ethnic backgrounds. This should shape how we view ourselves and others.

Living Out Unity
Practically, this unity should be evident in how we interact with fellow believers, showing love, respect, and acceptance regardless of differences.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding that "Christ is all, and in all" change the way you view your identity and the identity of others in the church?

2. In what ways can you actively work to break down cultural or social barriers within your own church community?

3. How does the unity described in Colossians 3:11 challenge the divisions you see in the world today?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced unity with someone very different from you because of your shared faith in Christ. What did you learn from that experience?

5. How can the teachings of Colossians 3:11 be applied to promote reconciliation and peace in broader society?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Galatians 3:28
This verse similarly emphasizes the unity of believers in Christ, regardless of ethnic, social, or gender distinctions.

Ephesians 2:14-16
Discusses how Christ has broken down the dividing wall of hostility, making peace between Jews and Gentiles.

1 Corinthians 12:13
Speaks of all believers being baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free.

Romans 10:12
Affirms that there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord is Lord of all.