Colossians 3:12 (KJV)

What does Colossians 3:12 mean?

Colossians 3:12 calls believers, described as God’s chosen, holy, and loved people, to actively adopt attitudes of deep compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. The verse uses the image of “putting on” these qualities, as if clothing oneself with them in daily life.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Colossae, encouraging them to live in a way that reflects their new identity in Christ. The verse comes in a section where Paul contrasts old, harmful behaviors with the new character traits that should mark God’s people, urging them to let these virtues shape their relationships.

The Greek behind Colossians 3:12

• ἐκλεκτοί (eklektoi, “elect”): This word means “chosen” or “selected.” Paul is reminding the Colossians that their new way of living is rooted in being specially chosen by God, which gives weight to the call for a transformed character.
• σπλάγχνα (splanchna, “bowels”): In Greek, this word refers to the inner organs, but it was commonly used to mean the seat of deep emotions or compassion. The phrase “bowels of mercies” means heartfelt compassion, not just surface-level sympathy.
• χρηστότης (chrēstotēs, “kindness”): This word points to a genuine goodness and generosity in dealing with others, not merely polite behavior.
• ταπεινοφροσύνη (tapeinophrosynē, “humbleness of mind”): This term describes a true humility, an attitude that does not seek to elevate oneself above others.
• πραΰτης (prautēs, “meekness”): Often misunderstood, this word means gentle strength—power under control, not weakness.
• μακροθυμία (makrothymia, “longsuffering”): This word means patience, especially the ability to endure difficult people or situations without giving in to irritation or anger.

Why Colossians 3:12 matters

• Colossians 3:12 clarifies that Christian character is not automatic but something to be intentionally “put on,” like clothing, as a daily choice.
• The verse roots these virtues in God’s love and calling, not just as moral ideals but as a response to being chosen and cherished by God.
• This verse helps set the tone for Christian community, showing that relationships among believers should be marked by compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, contrasting with the negative traits listed earlier in the chapter.