Instructions for Christian Households(A)

18 Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands,(B) as is fitting in the Lord.

19 Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.

20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.

21 Fathers,[a] do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

22 Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance(C) from the Lord as a reward.(D) It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.(E)

Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair,(F) because you know that you also have a Master in heaven.

Further Instructions

Devote yourselves to prayer,(G) being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door(H) for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery(I) of Christ, for which I am in chains.(J) Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise(K) in the way you act toward outsiders;(L) make the most of every opportunity.(M) Let your conversation be always full of grace,(N) seasoned with salt,(O) so that you may know how to answer everyone.(P)

Footnotes

  1. Colossians 3:21 Or Parents

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