Colossians 3:8 (KJV)

What does Colossians 3:8 mean?

Colossians 3:8 tells believers to stop practicing certain harmful behaviors, specifically listing anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, and filthy language. The verse urges a clear break from these attitudes and actions, treating them as things to be deliberately set aside.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Colossae, encouraging them to live differently now that they follow Christ. He names specific negative behaviors that were common in their culture, making it clear these do not fit with their new identity. The verse is part of a larger section where Paul describes what it looks like to leave behind an old way of life.

The Greek behind Colossians 3:8

• The word for "put off" (ἀποτίθημι, apotithēmi) carries the sense of taking off clothes, suggesting a complete removal of these behaviors, not just reducing them.
• "Anger" (ὀργή, orgē) and "wrath" (θυμός, thymos) are both strong words for intense emotion, but "wrath" often points to outbursts, while "anger" can be a settled feeling.
• "Malice" (κακία, kakia) refers to a general ill-will or desire to harm others, highlighting not just actions but the underlying attitude.
• "Blasphemy" (βλασφημία, blasphēmia) here means abusive or slanderous speech, not just against God but also against people.
• "Filthy communication" (αἰσχρολογία, aischrologia) refers to shameful or abusive language, emphasizing the importance of how believers speak.

Why Colossians 3:8 matters

• Colossians 3:8 clarifies that following Jesus involves a conscious choice to reject certain behaviors, not just believing new ideas.
• The verse highlights the importance of both inner attitudes (like anger and malice) and outward actions (like speech), showing that both matter in the Christian life.
• By listing specific behaviors, Paul makes the call to change very practical and concrete, connecting spiritual growth to everyday life and relationships.