Colossians 3:6
Because of these, the wrath of God is coming on the sons of disobedience.
Because of these
This phrase refers back to the preceding verses, specifically Colossians 3:5, which lists earthly vices such as sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed. The Greek word for "because" is "δι’" (di’), indicating causation. These behaviors are not just personal failings but are seen as violations of God's holy standards. Historically, the Greco-Roman world was rife with such practices, and the early Christians were called to live counter-culturally. The phrase serves as a reminder that these sins are serious in the eyes of God and have consequences.

the wrath of God
The "wrath of God" is a concept that appears throughout Scripture, representing God's righteous anger and judgment against sin. The Greek word for "wrath" is "ὀργή" (orgē), which conveys a settled, determined indignation. This is not a capricious or emotional outburst but a consistent and just response to sin. In a historical context, the early church understood God's wrath as both a present reality and a future certainty, emphasizing the need for repentance and holy living. Theologically, it underscores God's holiness and justice, reminding believers of the seriousness of sin and the need for a Savior.

is coming
The phrase "is coming" is translated from the Greek "ἔρχεται" (erchetai), which is in the present tense, indicating an ongoing or imminent action. This suggests that God's judgment is not only a future event but is also being revealed in the present age. In the historical context of the Colossian church, this served as a warning and a call to vigilance. Theologically, it points to the eschatological reality that God's final judgment is certain and should motivate believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling. It serves as a sobering reminder of the urgency of the gospel message and the need for continual spiritual growth and transformation.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Colossians, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and theological teachings.

2. Colossae
An ancient city in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) where the recipients of this letter resided. It was a small city but significant enough to receive Paul's attention.

3. Sons of Disobedience
A term used by Paul to describe those who live in opposition to God's commands, often characterized by sinful behaviors and rejection of divine authority.

4. Wrath of God
A biblical concept referring to God's righteous anger and judgment against sin and disobedience.

5. Early Christian Church
The community of believers in the first century who were the initial recipients of Paul's letters and teachings.
Teaching Points
Understanding God's Wrath
God's wrath is a response to sin and disobedience, reflecting His holiness and justice. It is not arbitrary but a necessary aspect of His righteous character.

The Danger of Disobedience
Living in disobedience to God leads to spiritual peril. Believers are called to examine their lives and turn away from sinful behaviors that provoke God's wrath.

The Call to Holiness
Christians are urged to live in a manner worthy of their calling, putting off the old self and embracing a life of holiness and obedience to God.

The Role of Repentance
Repentance is crucial in avoiding the wrath of God. It involves a sincere turning away from sin and a commitment to follow Christ.

Hope in Christ
While God's wrath is real, believers have hope in Christ, who provides salvation and deliverance from judgment for those who trust in Him.
Bible Study Questions
1. What does the term "sons of disobedience" imply about the nature of sin and its impact on our relationship with God?

2. How does understanding the concept of God's wrath influence your view of sin and holiness in your daily life?

3. In what ways can you actively put off behaviors that align with disobedience and instead cultivate a life of obedience to God?

4. How do other scriptures, such as Ephesians 5:6 and Romans 1:18, enhance your understanding of Colossians 3:6?

5. What steps can you take to ensure that you are living in the hope and deliverance offered through Jesus Christ, as mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 1:10?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Ephesians 5:6
This verse also warns against being deceived by empty words and highlights that God's wrath comes upon the disobedient, reinforcing the message in Colossians 3:6.

Romans 1:18
Discusses the revelation of God's wrath against all ungodliness and unrighteousness, providing a broader context for understanding God's response to sin.

1 Thessalonians 1:10
Speaks of Jesus delivering believers from the coming wrath, offering hope and a solution to the problem of sin and disobedience.
Sins of the Flesh and the Sin of CovetousnessE.S. Prout Colossians 3:5-7
The Duty of Mortifying the Old ManT. Croskery Colossians 3:5-7
AngerH. W. Beecher.Colossians 3:5-9
Blasphemy, its NatureJ. Daille.Colossians 3:5-9
Control of TemperW. Baxendale.Colossians 3:5-9
Conversion and the Old NatureH. W. Beecher.Colossians 3:5-9
Corruptions Overcome by GraceC. H. Spurgeon.Colossians 3:5-9
Corruptions Overcome GraduallyC. H. Spurgeon.Colossians 3:5-9
CovetousnessW. Arnot, D. D.Colossians 3:5-9
CovetousnessEdgar A. Poe.Colossians 3:5-9
Covetousness is IdolatryColossians 3:5-9
Denying TheColossians 3:5-9
Dissuasives from EvilBishop Davenant.Colossians 3:5-9
Effects of DisobedienceE. Foster.Colossians 3:5-9
Filthy ConversationJ. Daille.Colossians 3:5-9
Gold in the HeartColossians 3:5-9
MaliceJ. Daille.Colossians 3:5-9
Mortifying the FleshT. Hamilton, D. D.Colossians 3:5-9
Purity of ConversationChristian, BostonColossians 3:5-9
Slander Cannot be RecalledW. Baxendale.Colossians 3:5-9
Slaying SelfA. Maclaren, D. D.Colossians 3:5-9
The Believer's View of Past SinBishop Meade.Colossians 3:5-9
The Children of DisobedienceJ. Parker, D. D.Colossians 3:5-9
The Evil SpeakerJ. Daille.Colossians 3:5-9
The Evils of Bad TemperJ. Daille.Colossians 3:5-9
The Flesh to be CrucifiedColossians 3:5-9
The Idolatry of CovetousnessC. S. Robinson, D. D.Colossians 3:5-9
The Mortification of the Sinful Principle in ManG. Barlow.Colossians 3:5-9
The Wrath of GodJonathan Edwards.Colossians 3:5-9
The Wrath of God a Present ThingJ. Spence, D. D.Colossians 3:5-9
Death to EvilU.R. Thomas Colossians 3:5-11
Dying Before RisingR. Finlayson Colossians 3:5-11
Mortification After DeathR.M. Edgar Colossians 3:5-11
People
Christians, Colossians, Paul, Timothy
Places
Colossae
Topics
Account, Anger, Disobedience, God's, Orders, Sake, Sins, Sons, Wrath
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Colossians 3:6

     5484   punishment, by God

Colossians 3:1-17

     3254   Holy Spirit, fruit of

Colossians 3:5-6

     5790   anger, divine
     5909   motives, importance
     6166   flesh, sinful nature
     6188   immorality, sexual
     6237   sexual sin, nature of
     8245   ethics, incentives

Colossians 3:5-7

     8438   giving, of time

Colossians 3:5-10

     4030   world, behaviour in
     8255   fruit, spiritual
     8443   growth
     8466   reformation

Colossians 3:5-12

     8311   morality, and redemption

Colossians 3:5-14

     5441   philosophy

Library
The Peace of God
Baltimore, U.S., 1874. Westminster Abbey. November 8, 1874. Colossians. iii 15. "Let the peace of God rule in your hearts." The peace of God. That is what the priest will invoke for you all, when you leave this abbey. Do you know what it is? Whether you do or not, let me tell you in a few words, what I seem to myself to have learned concerning that peace. What it is? how we can obtain it? and why so many do not obtain it, and are, therefore, not at peace? It is worth while to do so. For
Charles Kingsley—All Saints' Day and Other Sermons

May 5. "If Ye Then be Risen" (Col. Iii. 1).
"If ye then be risen" (Col. iii. 1). God is waiting this morning to mark the opening hours for every ready and willing heart with a touch of life and power that will lift our lives to higher pleasures and offer to our vision grander horizons of hope and holy service. We shall not need to seek far to discover our risen Lord. He was in advance even of the earliest seeker that Easter morning, and He will be waiting for us before the break of day with His glad "All Hail," if we have only eyes to see
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

February 17. "Your Life is Hid" (Col. Iii. 3).
"Your life is hid" (Col. iii. 3). Some Christians loom up in larger proportion than is becoming. They can tell, and others can tell, how many souls they bring to Christ. Their labor seems to crystallize and become its own memorial. Others again seem to blend so wholly with other workers that their own individuality can scarcely be traced. And yet, after all, this is the most Christ-like ministry of all, for the Master Himself does not even appear in the work of the church except as her hidden Life
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

May 18. "For Ye are Dead" (Col. Iii. 3).
"For ye are dead" (Col. iii. 3). Now, this definite, absolute and final putting off of ourselves in an act of death, is something we cannot do ourselves. It is not self-mortifying, but it is dying with Christ. There is nothing can do it but the Cross of Christ and the Spirit of God. The church is full of half dead people who have been trying, like poor Nero, to slay themselves for years, and have not had the courage to strike the fatal blow. Oh, if they would just put themselves at Jesus' feet, and
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
Text: Colossians 3, 12-17. 12 Put on therefore, as God's elect, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, meekness, longsuffering; 13 forbearing one another, and forgiving each other, if any man have a complaint against any; even as the Lord forgave you, so also do ye: 14 and above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfectness. 15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to the which also ye were called in one body; and be ye thankful. 16 Let the Word
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. II

Easter Wednesday Also Suited to Easter Tuesday.
Text: Colossians 3, 1-7. 1 If then ye were raised together with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated on the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on the things that are above, not on the things that are upon the earth. 3 For ye died, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall be manifested, then shall ye also with him be manifested in glory. 5 Put to death therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, passion,
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. II

Risen with Christ
'If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory. 5. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Christian Training of Children.
TEXT: COL. iii. 21. MY devout hearers! Christian families, founded on the holy bond of marriage, are appointed, in the divine order of things, to be the nurseries of the future generation. It is there that the young souls who are to be our successors in cultivating the vineyard of God are to be trained and developed; it is there the process is to begin of restraining and cleansing away the corruption inherent in them as the children of sinful men; there that their earliest longings after fellowship
Friedrich Schleiermacher—Selected Sermons of Schleiermacher

Unity and Peace.
Preached February 9, 1851. UNITY AND PEACE. "And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful."--Colossians iii. 15. There is something in these words that might surprise us. It might surprise us to find that peace is urged on us as a duty. There can be no duty except where there is a matter of obedience; and it might seem to us that peace is a something over which we have no power. It is a privilege to have peace, but it would appear
Frederick W. Robertson—Sermons Preached at Brighton

Christ is All
Observe in this chapter that he begins by reminding the saints of their having risen with Christ. If they indeed have risen with him, he argues that they should leave the grave of iniquity and the graveclothes of their sins behind, and act as those who are endowed with that superior life, which accounts sin to be death and corruption. He then goes on to declare that the believer's life is in Christ, "for ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God." He infers holiness from this also. Shall
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871

Christ is All
MY text is so very short that you cannot forget it; and, I am quite certain, if you are Christians at all, you will be sure to agree with it. What a multitude of religions there is in this poor wicked world of ours! Men have taken it into their heads to invent various systems of religion and if you look round the world, you will see scores of different sects; but it is a great fact that, while there is a multitude of false religions, there is but one that is true. While there are many falsehoods,
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 61: 1915

Some General Uses.
Before we come to speak of some particular cases of deadness, wherein believers are to make use of Christ as the Life, we shall first propose some useful consequences and deductions from what hath been spoken of this life; and, I. The faith of those things, which have been mentioned, would be of great use and advantage to believers; and therefore they should study to have the faith of this truth fixed on their hearts, and a deep impression thereof on their spirits, to the end, that, 1. Be their case
John Brown (of Wamphray)—Christ The Way, The Truth, and The Life

Cups Running Over
Brokenness, however, is but the beginning of Revival. Revival itself is being absolutely filled to overflowing with the Holy Spirit, and that is victorious living. If we were asked this moment if we were filled with the Holy Spirit, how many of us would dare to answer "yes"? Revival is when we can say "yes" at any moment of the day. It is not egoistic to say so, for filling to overflowing is utterly and completely God's work--it is all of grace. All we have to do is to present our empty, broken self
Roy Hession and Revel Hession—The Calvary Road

What have I to do with Idols?
MUCH is said in reproof of Ephraim by the prophet Hosea. All the wicked dealings and defilement of Ephraim is uncovered--and the Lord said: "I will be unto Ephraim as a lion." Again Jehovah said: "Ephraim is like a cake not turned." "Ephraim is like a silly dove without heart." "Ephraim hath made many altars to sin." "Ephraim is joined to idols, let him alone." But all reproof and chastisement did not bring Ephraim back. Nothing seemed to be able to draw Ephraim's heart away from the idols. At the
Arno Gaebelein—The Lord of Glory

Christ Our Life.
Colossians 3:4.--Christ who is our life. One question that rises in every mind is this: "How can I live that life of perfect trust in God?" Many do not know the right answer, or the full answer. It is this: "Christ must live it in me." That is what He became man for; as a man to live a life of trust in God, and so to show to us how we ought to live. When He had done that upon earth, He went to heaven, that He might do more than show us, might give us, and live in us that life of trust. It is as we
Andrew Murray—The Master's Indwelling

Meditations of the Misery of a Man not Reconciled to God in Christ.
O wretched Man! where shall I begin to describe thine endless misery, who art condemned as soon as conceived; and adjudged to eternal death, before thou wast born to a temporal life? A beginning indeed, I find, but no end of thy miseries. For when Adam and Eve, being created after God's own image, and placed in Paradise, that they and their posterity might live in a blessed state of life immortal, having dominion over all earthly creatures, and only restrained from the fruit of one tree, as a sign
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

Christ all and in All.
(Colossians iii. 11.) Christ is all to us that we make Him to be. I want to emphasize that word "all." Some men make Him to be "a root out of a dry ground," "without form or comeliness." He is nothing to them; they do not want Him. Some Christians have a very small Saviour, for they are not willing to receive Him fully, and let Him do great and mighty things for them. Others have a mighty Saviour, because they make Him to be great and mighty. If we would know what Christ wants to be to us, we
Dwight L. Moody—The Way to God and How to Find It

But, after that He had Made Mention of These Evils...
30. But, after that he had made mention of these evils, he added and said, "On account of which cometh the wrath of God on the sons of unbelief." [1923] Surely it was a wholesome alarm that believers might not think that they could be saved on account of their faith alone, even although they should live in these evils: the Apostle James with most clear speech crying out against that notion, and saying, "If any say that he have faith, and have not works, shall his faith be able to save him?" [1924]
St. Augustine—On Continence

"But Now do Ye Also," Saith He, "Put Down All...
31. "But now do ye also," saith he, "put down all;" [1927] and he makes mention of several more evils of that sort. But what is it, that it is not enough for him to say, "Do ye put down all," but that he added the conjunction and said, "ye also?" save that lest they should not think that they did those evils and lived in them with impunity on this account, because their faith set them free from wrath, which cometh upon the sons of unbelief, doing these things, and living in them without faith. Do
St. Augustine—On Continence

Epistle xxxiii. To Dominicus.
To Dominicus. Gregory to Dominicus, Bishop of Carthage. The letter of your Holiness, which we received at the hands of the bearer of these presents, so expressed priestly moderation as to soothe us, in a manner, with the bodily presence of its author. Nor indeed does infrequency of communication cause any harm where the affection of love remains uninterrupted in one's mind. Great, moreover, is the power of charity, beloved brother, which binds hearts one to another in mutual affection with the
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

How Servants and Masters are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 6). Differently to be admonished are servants and masters. Servants, to wit, that they ever keep in view the humility of their condition; but masters, that they lose not recollection of their nature, in which they are constituted on an equality with servants. Servants are to be admonished that they despise not their masters, lest they offend God, if by behaving themselves proudly they gainsay His ordinance: masters, too, are to be admonished, that they are proud against God with respect
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

How Subjects and Prelates are to be Admonished.
(Admonition 5.) Differently to be admonished are subjects and prelates: the former that subjection crush them not, the latter that superior place elate them not: the former that they fail not to fulfil what is commanded them, the latter that they command not more to be fulfilled than is just: the former that they submit humbly, the latter that they preside temperately. For this, which may be understood also figuratively, is said to the former, Children, obey your parents in the Lord: but to
Leo the Great—Writings of Leo the Great

Third Sunday after Trinity Humility, Trust, Watchfulness, Suffering
Text: 1 Peter 5, 5-11. 5 Likewise, ye younger, be subject unto the elder. Yea, all of you gird yourselves with humility, to serve one another: for God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble. 6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time; 7 casting all your anxiety upon him, because he careth for you. 8 Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 whom withstand stedfast
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. III

What the Scriptures Principally Teach: the Ruin and Recovery of Man. Faith and Love Towards Christ.
2 Tim. i. 13.--"Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus." Here is the sum of religion. Here you have a compend of the doctrine of the Scriptures. All divine truths may be reduced to these two heads,--faith and love; what we ought to believe, and what we ought to do. This is all the Scriptures teach, and this is all we have to learn. What have we to know, but what God hath revealed of himself to us? And what have we to do, but what
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

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