Colossians 3:9 (KJV)

What does Colossians 3:9 mean?

Colossians 3:9 tells believers not to lie to each other, because they have set aside their old, sinful ways and the behaviors that went with them. The verse connects honest living with the idea that followers of Jesus have left behind their former selves and habits.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Colossae, urging them to live differently now that they belong to Christ. The instruction not to lie is part of a larger section where Paul describes how believers should “put off” their old way of life and “put on” new qualities that reflect their new identity. The verse uses the image of taking off old clothes to describe leaving behind past behaviors.

The Greek behind Colossians 3:9

• "Lie" (ψεύδομαι, pseudomai): This word means to speak falsely or deceive. Paul’s use of it highlights that honesty is a key part of the new life believers are called to live.
• "Old" (παλαιός, palaios) and "man" (ἄνθρωπος, anthrōpos): Together, these refer to the “old self” or “old person,” meaning the former way of living before following Jesus. The phrase paints a picture of leaving behind an entire way of being, not just a few bad habits.
• "Put off" (ἀπεκδύομαι, apekduomai): This word means to strip off or take away, like removing clothing. Paul uses it to show that leaving behind the old self is a decisive, intentional act.

Why Colossians 3:9 matters

• Colossians 3:9 clarifies that honesty is not just a moral rule, but a sign of a changed life for Christians—lying belongs to the “old self” that has been set aside.
• The verse connects personal behavior (truthfulness) to a bigger spiritual reality (being made new in Christ), showing that faith is meant to affect everyday relationships.
• This verse fits into Paul’s wider teaching in Colossians 3, where he contrasts old and new ways of living, helping readers see that following Jesus involves a complete transformation, not just surface changes.