Colossians 3:15

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.

Translation and Paraphrase

15. And let the peace which Christ gives rule (as an umpire directs a game) in your hearts; (for) you were called (by God) unto this (peace); and be ye thankful (for it).

Notes

1.

Peace has always been an outstanding characteristic of God's children, and a notable lack in sinners. I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war. (Psalms 120:7). There is no peace saith my God to the wicked. (Isaiah 57:20-21). Our God is a God of peace. (Romans 16:20).

2.

The peace of Christ (John 14:27) is to rule in our hearts, like an umpire or arbiter. Do not permit angry emotions to rule in our hearts. Let the peace of Christ rule your minds, will, emotions, and conscience.

3.

We were called to become Christians with the intention that we should permit the peace of Christ to rule in our own lives, and in our group as a whole. (1 Thessalonians 2:14). We are called individually to enjoy God's peace, and also called as a group in one body unto peace. The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace and only grows well in peace. (James 3:18). No good progress can be made while fighting is going on.

4.

Many Bible verses exhort us to be thankful. (1 Thessalonians 5:18). The context of Colossians 3:15 suggests that we should be thankful that we have been called in peace into one body. The peace of God is to arbitrate in our hearts, and in our group, whenever there are strains within the body that would tend to make it fly apart. For this we should be thankful.

Study and Review

42.

What is to rule in our hearts? (Colossians 3:15)

43.

To what were we called?

44.

What connection could there be between letting the peace of Christ rule in our hearts and being called in one body? (Colossians 3:15)