Colossians 3:7 (KJV)

What does Colossians 3:7 mean?

Colossians 3:7 reminds the readers that they once lived and acted in the ways described earlier, but that was part of their past. The verse points out that these behaviors were once normal for them when their lives were shaped by those things.

Paul is writing to believers in Colossae, reminding them of their former way of life before they followed Jesus. He refers back to a list of harmful behaviors in the previous verse, emphasizing that these were once part of their everyday lives. The verse serves as a gentle reminder of their past, setting up a contrast with their new identity.

The Greek behind Colossians 3:7

• "Walked" (περιεπατήσατε, periepatēsate): This word often means to conduct oneself or to live in a certain way. Here, it highlights that these behaviors were not just occasional but a regular pattern in their lives.
• "Lived" (ἐζῆτε, ezēte): This word means to exist or to have one’s life shaped by something. Paul uses it to show that their whole way of living was once centered around these things, not just their actions but their very lifestyle.
• "In" (ἐν, en): The Greek preposition here can mean "in" or "among." It underlines that these behaviors were the environment or sphere in which they existed, not just isolated actions.

Why Colossians 3:7 matters

• Colossians 3:7 helps clear up the idea that the changes Paul is calling for are not about minor adjustments but about a complete change from an old way of life.
• The verse connects the readers’ past to their present, showing that growth and change are possible and expected as part of following Jesus.
• By reminding the readers of their past, Paul emphasizes that the instructions he gives are not out of reach—they have already begun to leave these old patterns behind.