Devine Scripture

Colossians 3:17

What does Colossians 3:17 mean?

A plain-English look at Colossians 3:17 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Colossians 3:17 means

This verse provides a comprehensive rule: whatever believers do—speech or action—must be done “in the name of the Lord Jesus,” consciously representing Him, under His authority, and for His honor. Gratitude frames this life, as thanks rise “to God the Father through him,” acknowledging continual dependence on Christ as mediator. This principle sanctifies all of life, not only worship gatherings. Work, family, conversation—everything becomes an arena for serving Christ. Living in His name checks motives, purifies methods, and sets the aim at God’s glory. Gratitude keeps the heart warm and humble, recognizing that every good we enjoy and every service we offer comes through the Lord Jesus.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And whatsoever ye do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And whatsoever ye do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And whatever you do, in word or in act, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving praise to God the Father through him.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and all, whatever ye may do in word or in work, <FI>do<Fi> all things in the name of the Lord Jesus--giving thanks to the God and Father, through him.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And everything, whatever ye may do in word or in deed, [do] all things in [the] name of [the] Lord Jesus, giving thanks toGod the Father by him.

Context

Verses 15–16 established the community’s atmosphere (peace) and nourishment (the word). Verse 17 universalizes the ethic: all of life is to be Christ-centered and thankful. With this compass in place, Paul turns to specific roles within the household (verses 18–25), showing how the lordship of Jesus dignifies and directs marriage, parenting, and servanthood. The sequence illustrates that spirituality is not abstract; it is worked out in the most ordinary relationships and tasks, all under the banner of Christ’s name.

v.16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts unto God.

v.17This passage

v.18Wives, be in subjection to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Philippians 2:11

    and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

  • Acts 4:30

    while thou stretchest forth thy hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of thy holy Servant Jesus.

  • Proverbs 3:6

    In all thy ways acknowledge him, And he will direct thy paths.

  • 1 Peter 2:5

    ye also, as living stones, are built up a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

  • Colossians 2:7

    rooted and builded up in him, and established in your faith, even as ye were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.

  • Micah 4:5

    For all the peoples walk every one in the name of his god; and we will walk in the name of Jehovah our God for ever and ever.

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