Colossians 3:23

23 Work from the heart for your real Master, for God,

Colossians 3:23 Meaning and Commentary

Colossians 3:23

And whatsoever ye do
Some have thought that these words, and the two following verses, regard the Colossians in general, and the performance of any, and all good works by them; but by their connection with the preceding verse, and with the beginning of the next chapter, they appear to concern servants only, and what they do under that character, and under the discharge of their duty:

do it heartily,
not by mere force and necessity, grudgingly, and with murmurings, but from the heart, and with good will, having a true, real, and hearty affection for their masters, having their good and interest at heart, and a delight in their service; like the Hebrew servant, that loved his master, as also his wife and children, and therefore would not depart from him, see ( Exodus 21:5 ) ,

as to the Lord, and not unto men; (See Gill on Ephesians 6:7).

Colossians 3:23 In-Context

21 Parents, don't come down too hard on your children or you'll crush their spirits.

22 Servants, do what you're told by your earthly masters. And don't just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best.

23 Work from the heart for your real Master, for God,

24 confident that you'll get paid in full when you come into your inheritance. Keep in mind always that the ultimate Master you're serving is Christ.

25 The sullen servant who does shoddy work will be held responsible. Being Christian doesn't cover up bad work.