We’re continuing through the book of Colossians. For the last few posts, I was talking about our spiritual clothing if we allow the Holy Spirit to have His way in us. Now Paul is bringing this section to a conclusion.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
Colossians 3:15 NIV
Let me start out with a disclaimer. I’ve heard many teaching about this verse. The majority of which deal with decision making. They say that if you have a major decision to make, just go with the choice that you’re at peace with.
I know that this sounds good, but it’s based upon the way word meanings have changed throughout church history. However, one thing that doesn’t change is the context of Scripture. So, at the risk of getting some people upset at me, I’m going with the context.
The first thing we need to understand is this word, peace. The problem is that the Greek language has a couple of different words that are translated as peace in English. I’ve heard people teach that it’s calm, quietness – like when Jesus said, “Peace. Be still”; and He calmed the storm. This isn’t that Greek word.
The word used for peace in this verse means harmony between two parties. In other words, it’s the opposite of war. This is something that can only be accomplished by the Holy Spirit.
Again, we need to look at the context in which we find this verse. Paul has just gone through a list of virtues that affect our relationships. It’s how we treat one another and live in a spirit of unity.
Even in this very verse the Apostle tells us that as members of one body, we are called to have harmony between us. That’s not even taking into account the fact that he just talked about forgiveness, love, compassion, and patience.
The other word we need to look at is the word, rule. I’ve heard it taught that if you follow where your heart has peace, you’ll always make the right decision. Is that true?
Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not always peaceful about God’s will for my life. He sometimes calls me to do things I’m not comfortable with. I don’t think Jonah had peace concerning going to Nineveh.
Understanding this word, rule, is important. It comes from a Greek word that literally means the umpire of a contest, who awards the prize. That brings a whole new light to this verse.
In the context of how we treat one another in the body of Christ, peace is the umpire. I allow the Holy Spirit to work His will in me with all of these virtues. Then, when I see the peace of God active in me – a harmony between me and other believers – that’s the proof that I’m qualified for the prize.
That brings me to the final sentence of this verse. Paul didn’t just add a random comment to the end of this. The word “and” should tell you that this is all one sentence in the original.
That word, grateful, has a primary meaning of being well-favored. If we follow through on Paul’s exhortation in verses 12-15, then we will be well-favored. Not only by God, but by our brothers and sisters around us.
So, as I’ve said before, context is everything. I hope you’ve had an open mind while reading this post. And I hope that it’s a blessing to you. My prayer is that by receiving it, you’ll be well-favored.
Question: How well do you allow the Holy Spirit to work His peace in your relationships?
© 2024 Nick Zaccardi