Paul has taught the Colossians (and us) what it means to be “hidden in Christ.” He has illustrated this concept and many others to this point to implore those who would be the children of God the supremacy of his giving of his Son and the supremacy of that son in providing all we need spiritually to gain eternal life. Now, Paul illustrates the hidden life in Christ as it is exemplified in our earthly relationships.

One of the modern difficulties for wives in handling the command of vs. 18 is the false belief that submission means getting permission. Husbands can neither demand nor enforce the submission of their wives. Such is not a Biblical precept. Wives are to yield to their husbands because they wish for them to be, support them as the leaders in the home.

How many husbands delight in the idea of yielding to their wife’s best interests and submitting his life to her in love? Loving means to treat as you wish to be treated. Loving means looking to her before yourself. Provide. Secure. Meet needs. Do not be bitter/harsh. The wife/husband relationship reveals lives hidden in Christ or not.

“Obey…in everything.” That sounds like fun, right kids? Kids have a tendency to obey what they agree to, but not everything. That is sin. Children must understand when they obey godly parents, they obey and serve God. A necessary distinction. Children must not rule the household, parents must not make excuses for children who try.

Notice, as we have studied before that “Dad” gets a double-dose here? Another illustration of the preeminent importance of men leaders in godly homes. Notice what Proverbs 29:15 says. That shame comes from a house divided, make no mistake. Therefore, fathers need to know the differences in discipline. Try to distinguish immaturity from rebelliousness and discipline both correctly and in love.

Interestingly, we like to distinguish this command modernly, but such is not just. God’s law applies in any workplace, whether supportive or oppressive. The bottom line here is, God is our “boss” regardless of human intervention. When we work, we work as to him none other. Same for “masters.” You will be treated by God as those subordinate to you are treated.

Listen to the Invitation of the Lord: Isaiah 55; Matthew 11: Listen to the Invitation of the Lord: Isaiah 55; Matthew 11: Believe the gospel of Christ: John 8:24; 20:30-31; Rom 1:16; 10:10 Believe the gospel of Christ: John 8:24; 20:30-31; Rom 1:16; 10:10 Repent or turn from your sins: Luke 24:46-47; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 17:30-31 Repent or turn from your sins: Luke 24:46-47; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 17:30-31 Confess your faith in Christ: Matt 10:32-33; Rom 10:9-10 Confess your faith in Christ: Matt 10:32-33; Rom 10:9-10 Be immersed in water: Matt 28:19; Mk 16:16; Acts 2:38; Rom 6:3-4; 1 Pet 3:21 Be immersed in water: Matt 28:19; Mk 16:16; Acts 2:38; Rom 6:3-4; 1 Pet 3:21 Live in obedient faith: 1 Peter 1:14; Rev 2:10 Live in obedient faith: 1 Peter 1:14; Rev 2:10