Colossians 4:1

Prayerful Speech and Actions · Colossians 4:1–6
Read Colossians 4

Translations

Modern
Masters, supply your slaves with what is right and fair, since you know that you also have a Master in heaven.
Traditional
Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.
Literal
Masters, provide to your slaves that which is right and that which is equal, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.
Latin
Domini, quod justum est et æquum, servis præstate: scientes quod et vos Dominum habetis in cælo.

Original

Greek
English
Masters, supply your slaves with what is right and fair, since you know that you also have a Master in heaven.

Notes

Masters: Christian slave owners needed to understand that they were also slaves who had to obey Jesus Christ, their Master in heaven. He treats everyone with dignity and kindness.

This series of teachings is called a household code. Paul instructs wives (3:18), husbands (3:19), children (3:20), fathers (3:21), slaves (3:22–25), and masters (4:1). Similar codes are found in Greco-Roman writings and other parts of the New Testament (see Ephesians 5:22–6:9; 1 Peter 2:18–3:7).

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul) The Household

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Biblical Concept of Law Letter to the Colossians Letter to the Ephesians Slave, Slavery

Topics

Employer: General Scriptures Concerning Employers Employment Freeing a Slave Justice: To be Done: To Servants Managing your Business Master: Scriptures Relating to Masters of Serv Ants Masters: Duty of, Toward Servants: To Act Justly Masters: Duty of, Toward Servants: To Deal with Them in the Fear of God Servant: Hired: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Treatment of Employees Wages: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To