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Book Chapter Verse ID SupportReference OrigQuote Occurrence GLQuote OccurrenceNote
-LUK front intro uk55 0 # Introduction to the Gospel of Luke
## Part 1: General Introduction
### Outline of the book of Luke
1. Dedication to Theophilus (1:1-4)
2. Prologue
* The birth of John the Baptist (1:5-80)
* The birth and youth of Jesus (2:1-51)
* The ministry of John the Baptist (3:1-20)
* The baptism, genealogy, and temptation of Jesus (3:21-4:13)
1. The teaching and healing ministry of Jesus in Galilee (4:14-9:50)
2. Jesus teaches along his journey to Jerusalem
* Judgment by God, and people’s judgments about Jesus (9:51-13:21)
* Who will be part of the kingdom of God (13:22-17:10)
* Responding to Jesus by welcoming or rejecting him (17:11-19:27)
1. Jesus in Jerusalem
* Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem (19:28-44)
* Jesus teaches in the temple: conflict over his identity and authority (19:45-21:38)
* Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection (22:1-24:53)
### What is the Gospel of Luke about?
The Gospel of Luke is one of four books in the New Testament that describe the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. These books are called “Gospels,” which means “good news.” Their authors wrote about different aspects of who Jesus was and what he did. Luke wrote his Gospel for a person named Theophilus and dedicated it to him. Luke wrote an accurate description of the life and teachings of Jesus so that Theophilus would be certain that what he had been taught about Jesus was true. However, Luke expected that what he wrote would encourage all followers of Jesus.
### How should the title of this book be translated?
Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “The Gospel of Luke” or “The Gospel According to Luke.” Or they may choose a different title, such as “The Good News About Jesus that Luke Wrote.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
### Who wrote the book of Luke?
This book does not give the name of its author. However, the same person who wrote this book also wrote the book of Acts, which is also dedicated to Theophilus. In parts of the book of Acts, the author uses the word “we.” This indicates that the author traveled with Paul. Most scholars think that Luke was this person traveling with Paul. Therefore, since early Christian times, most Christians have recognized Luke as the author of both the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts.
Luke was a medical doctor. His way of writing shows that he was an educated man. He was probably a Gentile. Luke himself probably did not witness what Jesus said and did. But he tells Theophilus in his dedication that he talked to many people who did.
## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts
### The kingdom of God
“The kingdom of God” is a major concept in the Gospel of Luke. It is very rich in meaning. It includes the idea of eternal life in the presence of God, but it also includes the idea of what the earth will be like in the future when God rules everything, and the idea of life on earth right now, when and where God’s wishes are carried out fully. The unifying concept behind all of these ideas is that of God ruling and of people embracing God’s rule over their lives. Wherever the expression “the kingdom of God” occurs, translation notes will suggest communicating the idea behind the abstract noun “kingdom” with some phrase that uses the verb “rule.” UST models this approach consistently. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
### Why does Luke write so much about the final week of Jesus’ life?
Luke wrote much about Jesus’ final week. He wanted his readers to think deeply about Jesus’ final week and his death on the cross. He wanted people to understand that Jesus willingly died on the cross so that God could forgive them for sinning against him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])
### What are the roles of women in the Gospel of Luke?
Luke described women in a very positive way in his Gospel. For example, he often showed women being more faithful to God than most men. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]])
## Part 3: Important Translation Issues
### What are the Synoptic Gospels?
The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the Synoptic Gospels because they tell the story of many of the same events. The word “synoptic” means to “see together.”
Passages are considered “parallel” when they are the same or almost the same among two or three Gospels. When translating parallel passages, translators should use the same wording and make them as similar as possible.
### Why does Jesus refer to himself as the “Son of Man”?
In the Gospels, Jesus calls himself the “Son of Man.” This is a reference to [Daniel 7:13-14](../dan/07/13.md). In that passage, there is a person who is described as like a “son of man.” That means that the person was someone who looked like a human being. God gave authority to this “son of man” to rule over the nations forever. All people will worship him forever.
Jews of Jesus’ time did not use “Son of Man” as a title for anyone. But Jesus used it for himself to help them understand who he truly was. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sonofman]])
Translating the title “Son of Man” can be difficult in many languages. Readers may misunderstand a literal translation. Translators can consider alternatives, such as “The Human One.” It may also be helpful to include a footnote to explain the title.
### Major issues in the text of the book of Luke
ULT follows the readings of the most accurate ancient manuscripts of the Bible. However, there may already be older versions of the Bible in the translators’ regions that follow the readings of other manuscripts. In the most significant cases, the General Notes to the chapters in which these differences occur will discuss them and recommend approaches. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
+LUK front intro uk55 0 # Introduction to the Gospel of Luke
## Part 1: General Introduction
### Outline of the book of Luke
1. Dedication to Theophilus (1:1-4)
2. Prologue
* The birth of John the Baptist (1:5-80)
* The birth and youth of Jesus (2:1-51)
* The ministry of John the Baptist (3:1-20)
* The baptism, genealogy, and temptation of Jesus (3:21-4:13)
1. The teaching and healing ministry of Jesus in Galilee (4:14-9:50)
2. Jesus teaches along his journey to Jerusalem
* Judgment by God, and people’s judgments about Jesus (9:51-13:21)
* Who will be part of the kingdom of God (13:22-17:10)
* Responding to Jesus by welcoming or rejecting him (17:11-19:27)
1. Jesus in Jerusalem
* Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem (19:28-44)
* Jesus teaches in the temple: conflict over his identity and authority (19:45-21:38)
* Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection (22:1-24:53)
### What is the Gospel of Luke about?
The Gospel of Luke is one of four books in the New Testament that describe the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. These books are called “Gospels,” which means “good news.” Their authors wrote about different aspects of who Jesus was and what he did. Luke wrote his Gospel for a person named Theophilus and dedicated it to him. Luke wrote an accurate description of the life and teachings of Jesus so that Theophilus would be certain that what he had been taught about Jesus was true. However, Luke expected that what he wrote would encourage all followers of Jesus.
### How should the title of this book be translated?
Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “The Gospel of Luke” or “The Gospel According to Luke.” Or they may choose a different title, such as “The Good News About Jesus that Luke Wrote.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
### Who wrote the book of Luke?
This book does not give the name of its author. However, the same person who wrote this book also wrote the book of Acts, which is also dedicated to Theophilus. In parts of the book of Acts, the author uses the word “we.” This indicates that the author traveled with Paul. Most scholars think that Luke was this person traveling with Paul. Therefore, since early Christian times, most Christians have recognized Luke as the author of both the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts.
Luke was a medical doctor. His way of writing shows that he was an educated man. He was probably a Gentile. Luke himself probably did not witness what Jesus said and did. But he tells Theophilus in his dedication that he talked to many people who did.
## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts
### The kingdom of God
“The kingdom of God” is a major concept in the Gospel of Luke. It is very rich in meaning. It includes the idea of eternal life in the presence of God, but it also includes the idea of what the earth will be like in the future when God rules everything, and the idea of life on earth right now, when and where God’s wishes are carried out fully. The unifying concept behind all of these ideas is that of God ruling and of people embracing God’s rule over their lives. Wherever the expression “the kingdom of God” occurs, translation notes will suggest communicating the idea behind the abstract noun “kingdom” with some phrase that uses the verb “rule.” UST models this approach consistently. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
### Why does Luke write so much about the final week of Jesus’ life?
Luke wrote much about Jesus’ final week. He wanted his readers to think deeply about Jesus’ final week and his death on the cross. He wanted people to understand that Jesus willingly died on the cross so that God could forgive them for sinning against him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])
### What are the roles of women in the Gospel of Luke?
Luke described women in a very positive way in his Gospel. For example, he often showed women being more faithful to God than most men. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]])
## Part 3: Important Translation Issues
### What are the Synoptic Gospels?
The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the Synoptic Gospels because they tell the story of many of the same events. The word “synoptic” means to “see together.”
Passages are considered “parallel” when they are the same or almost the same among two or three Gospels. When translating parallel passages, translators should use the same wording and make them as similar as possible.
### Why does Jesus refer to himself as the “Son of Man”?
In the Gospels, Jesus calls himself the “Son of Man.” This is a reference to [Daniel 7:13-14](../dan/07/13.md). In that passage, there is a person who is described as like a “son of man.” That means that the person was someone who looked like a human being. God gave authority to this “son of man” to rule over the nations forever. All people will worship him forever.
Jews of Jesus’ time did not use “Son of Man” as a title for anyone. But Jesus used it for himself to help them understand who he truly was. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sonofman]])
Translating the title “Son of Man” can be difficult in many languages. Readers may misunderstand a literal translation. Translators can consider alternatives, such as “The Human One.” It may also be helpful to include a footnote to explain the title.
### Major issues in the text of the book of Luke
ULT follows the readings of the most accurate ancient manuscripts of the Bible. However, there may already be older versions of the Bible in the translators’ regions that follow the readings of other manuscripts. In the most significant cases, the General Notes to the chapters in which these differences occur will discuss them and recommend approaches. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
LUK 1 intro f1b5 0 # Luke 1 General Notes
## Structure and formatting
1. Dedication to Theophilus (1:1-4)
2. The angel Gabriel announces to Zechariah that his wife Elizabeth is going to bear a son, John the Baptist (1:5-25)
3. The angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she is going to become the mother of Jesus (1:26-38)
4. Mary goes to visit Elizabeth (1:39-56)
5. John the Baptist is born (1:57-80)
Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. ULT does this with the poetry in Mary’s song about becoming the mother of Jesus in 1:46-55 and Zechariah’s song about the birth of his son John the Baptist in 1:68-79.
## Special concepts in this chapter
### “He will be called John”
Most people in the ancient Near East would give a child the same name as someone in their families. People were surprised that Elizabeth and Zechariah named their son John because there was no one else in their family with that name.
LUK 1 1 qhd9 figs-activepassive περὶ τῶν πεπληροφορημένων ἐν ἡμῖν πραγμάτων 1 concerning the things that have been fulfilled among us If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “about those things that have happened among us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
LUK 1 1 hyp6 figs-exclusive ἐν ἡμῖν 1 among us Luke dedicates this book to a man named Theophilus. It is no longer known exactly who he was. But since Luke says in [1:4](../01/04.md) that he wants Theophilus to know that the things he has been taught are reliable, it appears that he was a follower of Jesus. So here the word **us** would include him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
diff --git a/en_tn_52-COL.tsv b/en_tn_52-COL.tsv
index 68f3d50b29..227e99a6c7 100644
--- a/en_tn_52-COL.tsv
+++ b/en_tn_52-COL.tsv
@@ -1,9 +1,9 @@
Book Chapter Verse ID SupportReference OrigQuote Occurrence GLQuote OccurrenceNote
-COL front intro d9hy 0 # Introduction to Colossians
## Part 1: General Introduction
### Outline of the Book of Colossians
1. Letter Opening (1:1–12)
* Greeting (1:1–2)
* Prayer of Thanksgiving (1:3–8)
* Prayer of Petition (1:9–12)
2. Teaching Section (1:13–2:23)
* Christ and His Work (1:13–20)
* Christ’s Work Applied to the Colossians (1:21–23)
* Paul's Ministry (1:24–2:5)
* Effects of Christ’s Work (2:6–15)
* Freedom in Christ (2:16–23)
3. Exhortation Section
* Seek the Things Above (3:1–4)
* Take off Vices, Put on Virtues (3:5–17)
* Commands for the Household (3:18–4:1)
* Prayer Request and Behavior towards Outsiders (4:2–6)
4. Letter Closing (4:7–18)
* The Messengers (4:7–9)
* Greetings from Friends (4:10–14)
* Greetings and Instructions from Paul (4:15–17)
* Greeting in Paul’s Own Hand (4:18)
### Who wrote the Book of Colossians?
The author identifies himself as Paul the Apostle. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee, and he persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus. However, he had never met the Colossians in person (see [2:1](../02/01.md)).
Paul wrote this letter while in prison ([4:3](../04/03.md); [4:18](../04/18.md)). Paul was imprisoned many times, and he does not say where he is. Many scholars think he is in Rome.
### What is the Book of Colossians about?
Paul wrote this letter to the believers in city of Colossae, which is in Asia Minor (modern Turkey). When he heard from Epaphras about the believers in Colossae, he wrote to encourage them and to warn them against false teachers. These false teachers were telling people that they had to obey certain rules and know certain things to receive new life, and they boasted about their own power and experiences. Paul attacks this false teaching by showing the Colossians that Christ’s work accomplishes everything that they need and gives them new life. When they are united to Christ, they do not need anything else, including this false teaching.
### How should the title of this book be translated?
Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Colossians.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s Letter to the Church in Colossae” or “A Letter to the Christians in Colossae.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts
### Who were the false teachers that Paul warns the Colossians against?
Most likely, these false teachers were not part of one specific group or belief system. They probably believed and practiced things from several different belief systems. Because of this, it is hard to describe exactly what they believed and taught. Based on what Paul says about them, they had certain rules about food and drink, the calendar, and behavior; they had what Paul calls a “philosophy,” or a system of thinking about the word that they found sophisticated and that probably included the idea of “fullness”; and they based at least some of these beliefs and rules on visions and marvelous experiences that probably included encounters with angels. Paul argues that the people who hold to these views are not remaining faithful to Christ, and he wants the Colossians to focus on the work of Christ for them, which has accomplished everything this false teaching claims to do and more.
### What does Paul mean when he uses language for “heaven”?
Paul speaks of heaven as “above,” and he further defines it as the place where Christ is seated at God’s right hand and where blessings are stored up for believers. Most likely, the spiritual powers are also in heaven. When Paul tells the Colossians to focus on what is “above” ([3:1](../03/01.md)), that is not because heaven is good and earth is bad. Instead, it is because heaven is where Christ is, as he states in the same verse. The Colossians are supposed to focus on Christ and where he is.
### What are the spiritual powers that Paul speaks about?
Paul speaks of thrones, dominions, governments, and authorities in [1:16](../01/16.md), and he uses some of these words again in [2:10](../02/10.md); [2:15](../02/15.md). These words refer to people or things that have power and authority, and in Colossians they probably refer more specifically to powerful spiritual beings. The “elemental principles” in [2:8](../02/08.md); [2:20](../02/20.md) probably refer to the same kind of beings in a generic way. Paul never specifically says that these spiritual powers are evil, but he does say that Christ’s work frees the Colossians from them. Obeying these powers and focusing on them is thus opposed to the new life that Christ has given.
### Who are all the people that Paul mentions in the letter?
Most of the people who are mentioned at the end of the letter are either with Paul or are people that Paul knows in or near the city of Colossae. Epaphras is mentioned several times, since he is the one who first preached the good news to the Colossians and the one who told Paul about them. Tychicus and Onesimus are the ones who traveled from Paul to Colossae with the letter, and they are able to give more updates about Paul and the people with him.
### Why does Paul mention other towns in this letter?
Paul mentions Laodicea and Hierapolis because they are towns nearby in the same valley. If a person stood in Colossae, he or she could see Laodicea at the edge of the valley. Paul mentions these three towns (Colossae, Laodicea, and Hierapolis) because they were towns where Epaphras preached the good news, and Paul had never met any Christians in these places. Perhaps it is because of these similarities and because they were so close together that Paul wanted the Colossians and the Laodiceans to share their letters.
## Part 3: Important Translation Issues
### How does Paul identify Jesus as God?
Paul calls Jesus the “image” of God and the “firstborn” of all creation ([1:15](../01/15.md)). Neither of these descriptions are meant to describe Jesus as the first or best thing God created; instead, they put him outside the creation. This is clear from the next verse, which identifies him as creator ([1:16](../01/16.md)). If Jesus is not created, he is God. Being “before all things” and having “all things hold together” in him are statements that make the same affirmation ([1:17](../01/17.md)).
Paul twice describes Jesus as having the “fullness” of God ([1:19](../01/19.md); [2:9](../02/09.md)). This does not mean that Jesus was particularly close with God or had God living inside him. Instead, it means that Jesus is everything that God is (the “fullness” of God).
Finally, Jesus is seated at God’s right hand in heaven (3:1](../03/01.md)). This does not mean he is a powerful figure who obeys God. Instead, it means that he sits on the divine throne and is God.
### How does Paul identify Jesus as human?
Paul says that Jesus died in “the body of his flesh” ([1:22](../01/22.md)). Additionally, when he states that Jesus is the “fullness” of God, this is true of him “bodily” ([2:9](../02/09.md)). When Paul says that Jesus has a “body,” this does not mean that Jesus simply used a body to look human. Instead, he means that Jesus is an embodied human like us.
### What does Paul mean when he tells the Colossians they have died and come back to life?
Multiple times throughout the letter, Paul tells the Colossians that they have died and risen with Christ. This does not mean that the Colossians have physically died and then returned from the dead. This language also is not just a figure of speech that Paul does not really mean. Rather, he means that God included believers with Christ when he died and resurrected. While the Colossians had not yet physically died and been resurrected, they could already experience death to the world and its powers and new life with its blessings because of their union with Christ in his death and resurrection.
### What does Paul mean when he talks about knowledge?
Paul uses knowledge language throughout his letter, including words such as “knowing,” “knowledge,” and “understanding.” Perhaps the false teachers promised “knowledge” of God and his will to those who listened to them, and Paul intended to show the Colossians that all the knowledge they needed could be found in Christ and his work. Whether this is true or not, Paul does clearly intend to tell the Colossians that growing in their knowledge of God is important, and that this knowledge can be found in Christ. “Knowledge” refers to learning more about God, his will, and his work in the world, and “knowing” these things leads to new life and changed behavior.
### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of Colossians?
For the following verses, there are differences between some of the ancient manuscripts. The ULT text follows the reading that most scholars consider to be original and puts the other reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in the language of wider communication in the region, translators may want to consider using the reading found in that version. If not, translators are advised to follow the reading in the ULT.
* “Grace to you, and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” ([1:2](../01/02.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “Grace to you, and peace from God our Father.”
* “Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on our behalf” ([1:7](../01/07.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on your behalf.”
* “the Father, who has made you able to share the inheritance of the saints in the light” ([1:12](../01/12.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “the Father, who has made us able to share the inheritance of the saints in the light.”
* “in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” ([1:14](../01/14.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “in whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins.”
* “having forgiven us all of our trespasses” ([2:13](../02/13.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “having forgiven you all of your trespasses.”
* “When Christ, your life, is revealed” ([3:4](../03/04.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “When Christ, our life, is revealed.”
* “the wrath of God is coming” ([3:6](../03/06.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “the wrath of God is coming on the sons of disobedience.”
* “so that you might know the things concerning us” ([4:8](../04/08.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “so that he might know the things concerning you.”
(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
-COL 1 intro gtm3 0 # Colossians 1 General Notes
## Structure and formatting
1. Letter Opening (1:1–12)
* Greeting (1:1–2)
* Prayer of Thanksgiving (1:3–8)
* Prayer of Petition (1:9–12)
2. Teaching Section (1:13–2:23)
* Christ and His Work (1:13–20)
* Christ’s Work Applied to the Colossians (1:21–23)
* Paul's Ministry (1:24–2:5)
Paul begins this letter in [1:1–2](../01/01.md) by giving his and Timothy’s names, identifying the people to whom he is writing, and offering a greeting. This is the way people typically began letters at this time.
## Special concepts in this chapter
### Mystery
Paul refers to a “mystery” for the first time in this chapter ([1:26–27](../01/26.md)). This does not refer to some secret truth that is hard to understand and that only a few privileged individuals can learn about. Instead, it refers to God’s plans that once were unknown but are now known to all his people. What is the content of this mystery? It is Christ himself, his work, and his union with believers. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])
### Fullness
Paul refers to “filling” or “fullness” four times in this chapter. First, Paul prays that the Colossians are “filled” with the knowledge of God’s will ([1:9](../01/09.md)). Second, Jesus has all the “fullness” of God ([1:19](../01/19.md)). Third, Paul “fills up” in his flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ ([1:24](../01/24.md)). Fourth, Paul makes the word of God “fully” known ([1:25](../01/25.md)). It is possible that Paul uses “filling” and “fullness” so often because it was something that the false teachers promised. Paul wishes to show instead how “fullness” comes through the work of Christ and through his own work on their behalf. Christ has God’s fullness, and Paul works for Christ by “filling” the Colossians, who then are “filled” with the knowledge of God’s will.
## Important figures of speech in this chapter
### Images for Christian living
Paul uses many different images to describe Christian living. In this chapter, he uses the images of “walking” and “bearing fruit” ([1:10](../01/10.md)). These images show that Paul wants the Colossians to think about the Christian life as a directed towards a goal (either a destination, if one is walking, or fruit, if one is growing). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fruit]])
### Light versus Dark
Paul contrasts the “inheritance of the saints in the light” ([1:12](../01/12.md)) with the “authority of the darkness” ([1:12](../01/12.md)). The “light” describes what is good, desirable, and related to God’s favor. The “darkness” is describes what is distant from God, opposed to him, and evil.
### Head and Body
In this chapter, Paul introduces an image that he will develop more fully in chapter 2: that of Christ as the head of the body, which is his church. This image identifies Christ as the source of life and direction for his church, just like the head is the source of life and direction for the body.
## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
### The Lack of the Afflictions of Christ
In [1:24](../01/24.md), Paul speaks of “the lack of the afflictions of Christ,” a lack that he fills up by his sufferings. This does not mean that Christ somehow failed in his mission and work, and Paul has to fill in the missing pieces. Instead, “lack” refers to something that Christ intentionally left for this followers to complete. He has called them to suffer, just as he himself did, to continue the mission of the church.
### The "Christ-Hymn"
Many scholars think that [1:15–20](../01/15.md) is an early Christian hymn that Paul has quoted to remind the Colossians of what they believe in common with other Christians. If this is true, it does not mean that this section says something different than what Paul thinks. Instead, Paul chose to quote it because he fully affirmed it. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could format these verses in a way that shows that they are from a hymn or poem.
+COL front intro d9hy 0 # Introduction to Colossians
## Part 1: General Introduction
### Outline of the Book of Colossians
1. Letter Opening (1:1–12)
* Greeting (1:1–2)
* Prayer of Thanksgiving (1:3–8)
* Prayer of Petition (1:9–12)
2. Teaching Section (1:13–2:23)
* Christ and His Work (1:13–20)
* Christ’s Work Applied to the Colossians (1:21–23)
* Paul's Ministry (1:24–2:5)
* Effects of Christ’s Work (2:6–15)
* Freedom in Christ (2:16–23)
3. Exhortation Section
* Seek the Things Above (3:1–4)
* Take off Vices, Put on Virtues (3:5–17)
* Commands for the Household (3:18–4:1)
* Prayer Request and Behavior towards Outsiders (4:2–6)
4. Letter Closing (4:7–18)
* The Messengers (4:7–9)
* Greetings from Friends (4:10–14)
* Greetings and Instructions from Paul (4:15–17)
* Greeting in Paul’s Own Hand (4:18)
### Who wrote the Book of Colossians?
The author identifies himself as Paul the Apostle. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee, and he persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus. However, he had never met the Colossians in person (see [2:1](../02/01.md)).
Paul wrote this letter while in prison ([4:3](../04/03.md); [4:18](../04/18.md)). Paul was imprisoned many times, and he does not say where he is. Many scholars think he is in Rome.
### What is the Book of Colossians about?
Paul wrote this letter to the believers in city of Colossae, which is in Asia Minor (modern Turkey). When he heard from Epaphras about the believers in Colossae, he wrote to encourage them and to warn them against false teachers. These false teachers were telling people that they had to obey certain rules and know certain things to receive new life, and they boasted about their own power and experiences. Paul attacks this false teaching by showing the Colossians that Christ’s work accomplishes everything that they need and gives them new life. When they are united to Christ, they do not need anything else, including this false teaching.
### How should the title of this book be translated?
Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Colossians.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s Letter to the Church in Colossae” or “A Letter to the Christians in Colossae.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts
### Who were the false teachers that Paul warns the Colossians against?
Most likely, these false teachers were not part of one specific group or belief system. They probably believed and practiced things from several different belief systems. Because of this, it is hard to describe exactly what they believed and taught. Based on what Paul says about them, they had certain rules about food and drink, the calendar, and behavior; they had what Paul calls a “philosophy,” or a system of thinking about the word that they found sophisticated and that probably included the idea of “fullness”; and they based at least some of these beliefs and rules on visions and marvelous experiences that probably included encounters with angels. Paul argues that the people who hold to these views are not remaining faithful to Christ, and he wants the Colossians to focus on the work of Christ for them, which has accomplished everything this false teaching claims to do and more.
### What does Paul mean when he uses language for “heaven”?
Paul speaks of heaven as “above,” and he further defines it as the place where Christ is seated at God’s right hand and where blessings are stored up for believers. Most likely, the spiritual powers are also in heaven. When Paul tells the Colossians to focus on what is “above” ([3:1](../03/01.md)), that is not because heaven is good and earth is bad. Instead, it is because heaven is where Christ is, as he states in the same verse. The Colossians are supposed to focus on Christ and where he is.
### What are the spiritual powers that Paul speaks about?
Paul speaks of thrones, dominions, governments, and authorities in [1:16](../01/16.md), and he uses some of these words again in [2:10](../02/10.md); [2:15](../02/15.md). These words refer to people or things that have power and authority, and in Colossians they probably refer more specifically to powerful spiritual beings. The “elemental principles” in [2:8](../02/08.md); [2:20](../02/20.md) probably refer to the same kind of beings in a generic way. Paul never specifically says that these spiritual powers are evil, but he does say that Christ’s work frees the Colossians from them. Obeying these powers and focusing on them is thus opposed to the new life that Christ has given.
### Who are all the people that Paul mentions in the letter?
Most of the people who are mentioned at the end of the letter are either with Paul or are people that Paul knows in or near the city of Colossae. Epaphras is mentioned several times, since he is the one who first preached the good news to the Colossians and the one who told Paul about them. Tychicus and Onesimus are the ones who traveled from Paul to Colossae with the letter, and they are able to give more updates about Paul and the people with him.
### Why does Paul mention other towns in this letter?
Paul mentions Laodicea and Hierapolis because they are towns nearby in the same valley. If a person stood in Colossae, he or she could see Laodicea at the edge of the valley. Paul mentions these three towns (Colossae, Laodicea, and Hierapolis) because they were towns where Epaphras preached the good news, and Paul had never met any Christians in these places. Perhaps it is because of these similarities and because they were so close together that Paul wanted the Colossians and the Laodiceans to share their letters.
## Part 3: Important Translation Issues
### How does Paul identify Jesus as God?
Paul calls Jesus the “image” of God and the “firstborn” of all creation ([1:15](../01/15.md)). Neither of these descriptions are meant to describe Jesus as the first or best thing God created; instead, they put him outside the creation. This is clear from the next verse, which identifies him as creator ([1:16](../01/16.md)). If Jesus is not created, he is God. Being “before all things” and having “all things hold together” in him are statements that make the same affirmation ([1:17](../01/17.md)).
Paul twice describes Jesus as having the “fullness” of God ([1:19](../01/19.md); [2:9](../02/09.md)). This does not mean that Jesus was particularly close with God or had God living inside him. Instead, it means that Jesus is everything that God is (the “fullness” of God).
Finally, Jesus is seated at God’s right hand in heaven ([3:1](../03/01.md)). This does not mean he is a powerful figure who obeys God. Instead, it means that he sits on the divine throne and is God.
### How does Paul identify Jesus as human?
Paul says that Jesus died in “the body of his flesh” ([1:22](../01/22.md)). Additionally, when he states that Jesus is the “fullness” of God, this is true of him “bodily” ([2:9](../02/09.md)). When Paul says that Jesus has a “body,” this does not mean that Jesus simply used a body to look human. Instead, he means that Jesus is an embodied human like us.
### What does Paul mean when he tells the Colossians they have died and come back to life?
Multiple times throughout the letter, Paul tells the Colossians that they have died and risen with Christ. This does not mean that the Colossians have physically died and then returned from the dead. This language also is not just a figure of speech that Paul does not really mean. Rather, he means that God included believers with Christ when he died and resurrected. While the Colossians had not yet physically died and been resurrected, they could already experience death to the world and its powers and new life with its blessings because of their union with Christ in his death and resurrection.
### What does Paul mean when he talks about knowledge?
Paul uses knowledge language throughout his letter, including words such as “knowing,” “knowledge,” and “understanding.” Perhaps the false teachers promised “knowledge” of God and his will to those who listened to them, and Paul intended to show the Colossians that all the knowledge they needed could be found in Christ and his work. Whether this is true or not, Paul does clearly intend to tell the Colossians that growing in their knowledge of God is important, and that this knowledge can be found in Christ. “Knowledge” refers to learning more about God, his will, and his work in the world, and “knowing” these things leads to new life and changed behavior.
### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of Colossians?
For the following verses, there are differences between some of the ancient manuscripts. The ULT text follows the reading that most scholars consider to be original and puts the other reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in the language of wider communication in the region, translators may want to consider using the reading found in that version. If not, translators are advised to follow the reading in the ULT.
* “Grace to you, and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” ([1:2](../01/02.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “Grace to you, and peace from God our Father.”
* “Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on our behalf” ([1:7](../01/07.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “Epaphras, our beloved fellow servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on your behalf.”
* “the Father, who has made you able to share the inheritance of the saints in the light” ([1:12](../01/12.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “the Father, who has made us able to share the inheritance of the saints in the light.”
* “in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” ([1:14](../01/14.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “in whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins.”
* “having forgiven us all of our trespasses” ([2:13](../02/13.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “having forgiven you all of your trespasses.”
* “When Christ, your life, is revealed” ([3:4](../03/04.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “When Christ, our life, is revealed.”
* “the wrath of God is coming” ([3:6](../03/06.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “the wrath of God is coming on the sons of disobedience.”
* “so that you might know the things concerning us” ([4:8](../04/08.md)). Some ancient manuscripts have this: “so that he might know the things concerning you.”
(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
+COL 1 intro gtm3 0 # Colossians 1 General Notes
## Structure and formatting
1. Letter Opening (1:1–12)
* Greeting (1:1–2)
* Prayer of Thanksgiving (1:3–8)
* Prayer of Petition (1:9–12)
2. Teaching Section (1:13–2:23)
* Christ and His Work (1:13–20)
* Christ’s Work Applied to the Colossians (1:21–23)
* Paul's Ministry (1:24–2:5)
Paul begins this letter in [1:1–2](../01/01.md) by giving his and Timothy’s names, identifying the people to whom he is writing, and offering a greeting. This is the way people typically began letters at this time.
## Special concepts in this chapter
### Mystery
Paul refers to a “mystery” for the first time in this chapter ([1:26–27](../01/26.md)). This does not refer to some secret truth that is hard to understand and that only a few privileged individuals can learn about. Instead, it refers to God’s plans that once were unknown but are now known to all his people. What is the content of this mystery? It is Christ himself, his work, and his union with believers. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])
### Fullness
Paul refers to “filling” or “fullness” four times in this chapter. First, Paul prays that the Colossians are “filled” with the knowledge of God’s will ([1:9](../01/09.md)). Second, Jesus has all the “fullness” of God ([1:19](../01/19.md)). Third, Paul “fills up” in his flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ ([1:24](../01/24.md)). Fourth, Paul makes the word of God “fully” known ([1:25](../01/25.md)). It is possible that Paul uses “filling” and “fullness” so often because it was something that the false teachers promised. Paul wishes to show instead how “fullness” comes through the work of Christ and through his own work on their behalf. Christ has God’s fullness, and Paul works for Christ by “filling” the Colossians, who then are “filled” with the knowledge of God’s will.
## Important figures of speech in this chapter
### Images for Christian living
Paul uses many different images to describe Christian living. In this chapter, he uses the images of “walking” and “bearing fruit” ([1:10](../01/10.md)). These images show that Paul wants the Colossians to think about the Christian life as a directed towards a goal (either a destination, if one is walking, or fruit, if one is growing). (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/fruit]])
### Light versus Dark
Paul contrasts the “inheritance of the saints in the light” ([1:12](../01/12.md)) with the “authority of the darkness” ([1:12](../01/12.md)). The “light” describes what is good, desirable, and related to God’s favor. The “darkness” is describes what is distant from God, opposed to him, and evil.
### Head and Body
In this chapter, Paul introduces an image that he will develop more fully in chapter 2: that of Christ as the head of the body, which is his church. This image identifies Christ as the source of life and direction for his church, just like the head is the source of life and direction for the body.
## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
### The Lack of the Afflictions of Christ
In [1:24](../01/24.md), Paul speaks of “the lack of the afflictions of Christ,” a lack that he fills up by his sufferings. This does not mean that Christ somehow failed in his mission and work, and Paul has to fill in the missing pieces. Instead, “lack” refers to something that Christ intentionally left for this followers to complete. He has called them to suffer, just as he himself did, to continue the mission of the church.
### The “Christ-Hymn”
Many scholars think that [1:15–20](../01/15.md) is an early Christian hymn that Paul has quoted to remind the Colossians of what they believe in common with other Christians. If this is true, it does not mean that this section says something different than what Paul thinks. Instead, Paul chose to quote it because he fully affirmed it. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could format these verses in a way that shows that they are from a hymn or poem.
COL 1 1 nlf1 figs-exclusive 0 General Information: Throughout this letter the words “we,” “us,” “our,” and “ours” include the Colossian believers unless noted otherwise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
COL 1 1 bqvt figs-yousingular 0 General Information: The words “you,” “your,” and “yours” refer to the Colossian believers and so are plural unless noted otherwise. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
-COL 1 1 xnhq figs-123person Παῦλος
1 In this culture, letter writers would give their own names first, referring to themselves in the third person. If that is confusing in your language, you can use the first person here. Or if your language has a particular way of introducing the author of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “From Paul. I write this letter to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
+COL 1 1 xnhq figs-123person Παῦλος 1 In this culture, letter writers would give their own names first, referring to themselves in the third person. If that is confusing in your language, you can use the first person here. Or if your language has a particular way of introducing the author of a letter, and if it would be helpful to your readers, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “From Paul. I write this letter to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
COL 1 1 v9jr translate-names Παῦλος 1 Here and throughout the letter, this is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
COL 1 1 yzlo figs-explicit καὶ Τιμόθεος ὁ ἀδελφὸς 1 This phrase does not mean that Timothy was the scribe who wrote the letter down. It is also does not mean that Timothy dictated the letter with Paul, since Paul often uses the first person singular in the letter. What it does mean is that Timothy is with Paul, and Paul writes the letter for both of them. If there is a way in your language to indicate that Paul writes in behalf of Timothy, you can use it here. Alternate translation: “and I write in behalf of Timothy, our fellow believer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 1 1 f3ki translate-names Τιμόθεος 1 This is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
@@ -55,9 +55,9 @@ COL 1 13 z8b5 figs-possession τῆς ἐξουσίας τοῦ σκότους 1
COL 1 13 kgvf figs-metaphor μετέστησεν 1 Here, Paul speaks about a change in who rules over believers as if they were moving from one location to another. If this is not clear in your language, you could express this idea in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “made us subject instead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 13 l2ex figs-abstractnouns εἰς τὴν βασιλείαν τοῦ Υἱοῦ τῆς ἀγάπης αὐτοῦ 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **kingdom** with a verb such as “rule” or “reign.” Alternate translation: “so that his beloved Son reigns over us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 13 o1pl figs-possession τοῦ Υἱοῦ τῆς ἀγάπης αὐτοῦ 1 Paul uses the possessive form to characterize the **Son** as **his beloved**. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the the idea behind **his beloved** with a relative clause. Alternate translation: “of the Son he loves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
-COL 1 13 zav6 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τοῦ Υἱοῦ τῆς ἀγάπης αὐτοῦ 1 of his beloved Son **Son** is an important title that describes the relationship between God the Father (who is mentioned in the previous verse ([1:12](../01/12.md)) and Jesus. Alternate translation: “of Jesus, God the Father’s beloved Son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
+COL 1 13 zav6 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τοῦ Υἱοῦ τῆς ἀγάπης αὐτοῦ 1 of his beloved Son **Son** is an important title that describes the relationship between God the Father (who is mentioned in the previous verse ([1:12](../01/12.md))) and Jesus. Alternate translation: “of Jesus, God the Father’s beloved Son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
COL 1 14 wh6q translate-unknown ἔχομεν τὴν ἀπολύτρωσιν 1 in whom Here, the word **redemption** does not refer to a payment or to the act of redeeming. Instead, it refers to the result of the act of redeeming. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a word such as “freedom” to express this idea. Alternate translation: “we have freedom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
-COL 1 14 v5d8 figs-abstractnouns ἔχομεν τὴν ἀπολύτρωσιν, τὴν ἄφεσιν τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν 1 we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins If it would be clearer in your language, the abstract nouns **redemption** and **forgiveness** can be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: “God has redeemed us; that is, he has forgiven our sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
+COL 1 14 v5d8 figs-abstractnouns ἔχομεν τὴν ἀπολύτρωσιν, τὴν ἄφεσιν τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν 1 we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins If it would be clearer in your language, the abstract nouns **redemption** and **forgiveness** can be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: “God has redeemed us; that is, he has forgiven our sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 14 pbmh figs-possession τὴν ἄφεσιν τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν 1 Here, Paul uses the possessive form to indicate that the **forgiveness** concerns **sins**. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a verb for **forgiveness** and make **sins** its object or complement. Alternate translation: “; that is, God has forgiven us for our sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
COL 1 15 j5u9 figs-metaphor ὅς ἐστιν εἰκὼν τοῦ Θεοῦ τοῦ ἀοράτου 1 He is the image of the invisible God Here, **image** does not mean a representation of something that is visible, like a photo or a reflection. Instead, **image** refers to how the Son perfectly reveals the Father. If this is not clear in your language, you could replace **image** with an expression that emphasizes how the Son reveals the Father. Alternate translation: “The Son shows exactly what the God the Father, whom no one can see, is like” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 15 rgb7 translate-unknown τοῦ Θεοῦ τοῦ ἀοράτου 1 The word **invisible** does not mean that God the Father could be seen by people but hides himself. Instead, it means that human sight is unable to perceive God the Father, since he is not part of the created world. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a phrase to clarify the idea. Alternate translation: “of God, whom humans are unable to see” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
@@ -87,7 +87,7 @@ COL 1 20 as3p figs-possession τοῦ αἵματος τοῦ σταυροῦ α
COL 1 20 x5av figs-metonymy τοῦ αἵματος τοῦ σταυροῦ αὐτοῦ 1 the blood of his cross Here, **blood** stands for the death of Christ on the cross. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a comparable word that stands for death or express the idea in non-figurative language. Alternate translation: “his death on the cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
COL 1 20 mbra figs-infostructure τὰ πάντα εἰς αὐτόν…εἴτε τὰ ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς, εἴτε τὰ ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς 1 The last part of this verse (**whether the things on the earth or the things in the heavens**) describes **all things** from near the beginning of the verse. If it would be clearer in your language, you could move the description next to **all things**. Alternate translation: “all things, whether the things on the earth or the things in the heavens, to himself” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)
COL 1 20 quxc figs-merism εἴτε τὰ ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς, εἴτε τὰ ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς 1 Paul refers to the **things on the earth** and **the things in the heavens** to include them and everything in between, that is, everything in all of creation. If this is not clear in your language, you could express this idea in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “everything in the whole creation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
-COL 1 21 kv5u grammar-connect-time-sequential ποτε 1 Connecting Statement: The phrase **At one time** does not refer to one specific instance in time when the Colossians were alienated from God. Instead, it refers to all the time before they believed in Jesus. Alternate translation: “During the time before you believed” [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])
+COL 1 21 kv5u grammar-connect-time-sequential ποτε 1 Connecting Statement: The phrase **At one time** does not refer to one specific instance in time when the Colossians were alienated from God. Instead, it refers to all the time before they believed in Jesus. Alternate translation: “During the time before you believed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])
COL 1 21 wp3t figs-activepassive ὄντας ἀπηλλοτριωμένους 1 alienated If it would be clearer in your language, you could describe the Colossians’ state with an active form. Alternate translation: “were people who did not want to be near God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 1 21 rn6l figs-explicit ἀπηλλοτριωμένους, καὶ ἐχθροὺς 1 Paul assumes that the Colossians will know from whom they were **alienated** and with whom they were **enemies**: God. If this is not clear in your translation, you could specify this with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “alienated from God and his enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 1 21 wa9m figs-abstractnouns τῇ διανοίᾳ ἐν τοῖς ἔργοις τοῖς πονηροῖς, 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns **thought** and **deeds** with relative clauses. Alternate translation: “in what you thought, in what you did that was evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
@@ -136,7 +136,7 @@ COL 1 28 uk2i translate-unknown τέλειον 1 complete The word translated **
COL 1 29 ejqu figs-metaphor κοπιῶ, ἀγωνιζόμενος 1 Here, Paul uses two words to describe how hard he works. The first, **labor**, means to “work hard” or “strive.” The second, **striving**, is usually used for attempting to win a contest, whether that is athletic, military, or legal. While Paul is not actually participating in an athletic or military contest, he uses the metaphor to explain how hard he works towards his goal. If it is clearer in your language, you could (1) express the ideas behind these two words with one phrase. Alternate translation: “I exert myself” (2) express the ideas with two comparable words. Alternate translation: “I work hard, exerting myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 1 29 n1h2 figs-abstractnouns κατὰ τὴν ἐνέργειαν αὐτοῦ, τὴν ἐνεργουμένην 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **working** with a verb. Alternate translation: “according to how God works, who works” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 1 29 f397 ἐν δυνάμει 1 Alternate translation: “with power” or “powerfully”
-COL 2 intro p3uc 0 # Colossians 2 General Notes
## Structure and Formatting
2. Teaching Section (1:13–2:23)
* Paul's Ministry (1:24–2:5)
* Effects of Christ’s Work (2:6–15)
* Freedom in Christ (2:16–23)
## Special concepts in this chapter
### Philosophy
Paul speaks of “philosophy” in [2:8](../02/08.md). He is not referring to all attempts by humans to understand the world around them. Instead, he makes it clear that he is referring to thinking that is “empty” and full of “deceit,” that comes from traditions of humans and the “elemental principles.” All this “philosophy” is bad because it is not “according to Christ.” The “philosophy” that Paul attacks, then, is any attempt to make sense of the world that does not do so in line with Christ and his work.
### Fullness
Just as in the last chapter, “fullness” is an important idea that Paul refers to [2:9–10](../02/9–10.md). Again, Christ has the divine “fullness,” and he “fills” the Colossians. No other source of “fullness” is needed.
## Important figures of speech in this chapter
### Head and Body
As in the last chapter, Christ is called the “head,” both of powerful rulers ([2:10](../02/10.md)) and of his church [2:19](../02/19.md). Paul uses this language to identify Christ as the supreme ruler, just as the head rules over the body, and the source of life for the church, just as a body is dead without its head. Paul also identifies the church as the body of Christ in [2:19](../02/19.md). Here, his point is that the church cannot survive and grow without being connected to Christ, just as a body does not live or grow without a head. Finally, Paul refers to a “body” in [2:17](../02/17.md), but here the metaphor is different. The word “body” refers to any object that can cast a shadow (not primarily to an organic, human body) and here the “body” (the object) is Christ, who casts a shadow, which is identified as old covenant regulations.
### Circumcision and baptism
In [2:11–13](../02/11.md), Paul uses the old covenant sign of circumcision to refer to removing the “the body of flesh” and the new covenant sign of baptism to refer to “being buried” with Christ. He uses these two signs to show how Christians are united with Christ, freed from sin, and given new life.
## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
### Flesh
In Colossians, Paul uses “flesh” to refer to human existence in the world before resurrection and the new heavens and earth. He uses “flesh” neutrally to refer to physical presence in [2:1](../02/01.md); [2:5](../02/05.md). In many other places, however, he uses “flesh” to refer to the weakness and sinfulness of humans as they live in ways that fit with this broken world ([2:11](../02/11.md), [13](../02/13.md), [18](../02/18.md), [23](../02/23.md)). Often, “flesh” in these situations is translated with something like “sinful nature.” However, it is perhaps better to emphasize both weakness and sinfulness, and the term “nature” can be confusing. For examples of some ways to translate “flesh,” see the UST and notes in this chapter.
### The false teaching
In this chapter, Paul gives some information about what the false teachers are saying and doing. However, it is not enough to give us a full picture of who they were and what they taught. What is clear is that they spoke about extraordinary experiences, were interested in spiritual beings, and gave commands about behavior that at least sometimes were related to Old Testament law. If possible, keep your translation as vague as Paul’s own description of the false teachers.
+COL 2 intro p3uc 0 # Colossians 2 General Notes
## Structure and Formatting
2. Teaching Section (1:13–2:23)
* Paul's Ministry (1:24–2:5)
* Effects of Christ’s Work (2:6–15)
* Freedom in Christ (2:16–23)
## Special concepts in this chapter
### Philosophy
Paul speaks of “philosophy” in [2:8](../02/08.md). He is not referring to all attempts by humans to understand the world around them. Instead, he makes it clear that he is referring to thinking that is “empty” and full of “deceit,” that comes from traditions of humans and the “elemental principles.” All this “philosophy” is bad because it is not “according to Christ.” The “philosophy” that Paul attacks, then, is any attempt to make sense of the world that does not do so in line with Christ and his work.
### Fullness
Just as in the last chapter, “fullness” is an important idea that Paul refers to [2:9–10](../02/9.md). Again, Christ has the divine “fullness,” and he “fills” the Colossians. No other source of “fullness” is needed.
## Important figures of speech in this chapter
### Head and Body
As in the last chapter, Christ is called the “head,” both of powerful rulers ([2:10](../02/10.md)) and of his church [2:19](../02/19.md). Paul uses this language to identify Christ as the supreme ruler, just as the head rules over the body, and the source of life for the church, just as a body is dead without its head. Paul also identifies the church as the body of Christ in [2:19](../02/19.md). Here, his point is that the church cannot survive and grow without being connected to Christ, just as a body does not live or grow without a head. Finally, Paul refers to a “body” in [2:17](../02/17.md), but here the metaphor is different. The word “body” refers to any object that can cast a shadow (not primarily to an organic, human body) and here the “body” (the object) is Christ, who casts a shadow, which is identified as old covenant regulations.
### Circumcision and baptism
In [2:11–13](../02/11.md), Paul uses the old covenant sign of circumcision to refer to removing the “the body of flesh” and the new covenant sign of baptism to refer to “being buried” with Christ. He uses these two signs to show how Christians are united with Christ, freed from sin, and given new life.
## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter
### Flesh
In Colossians, Paul uses “flesh” to refer to human existence in the world before resurrection and the new heavens and earth. He uses “flesh” neutrally to refer to physical presence in [2:1](../02/01.md); [2:5](../02/05.md). In many other places, however, he uses “flesh” to refer to the weakness and sinfulness of humans as they live in ways that fit with this broken world ([2:11](../02/11.md), [13](../02/13.md), [18](../02/18.md), [23](../02/23.md)). Often, “flesh” in these situations is translated with something like “sinful nature.” However, it is perhaps better to emphasize both weakness and sinfulness, and the term “nature” can be confusing. For examples of some ways to translate “flesh,” see the UST and notes in this chapter.
### The false teaching
In this chapter, Paul gives some information about what the false teachers are saying and doing. However, it is not enough to give us a full picture of who they were and what they taught. What is clear is that they spoke about extraordinary experiences, were interested in spiritual beings, and gave commands about behavior that at least sometimes were related to Old Testament law. If possible, keep your translation as vague as Paul’s own description of the false teachers.
COL 2 1 tt6v figs-explicit γὰρ 1 Connecting Statement: The word translated **for** introduces the reason why Paul told them about how hard he works in [1:29](../01/29.md). If this is not clear in your language, you could make the transition more explicit. Alternate translation: “I tell you about my hard work because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 2 1 dqg5 figs-metaphor ἡλίκον ἀγῶνα ἔχω 1 how great a struggle I have for you Here, the word translated **struggle** is directly related to the word translated “striving” in [1:29](../01/29.md). Just as in that verse, it is usually used for striving to win a contest, whether athletic, legal, or military, and Paul uses the word here to indicate how much he cares for the Colossians and how hard he works for them. If this is not clear in your language, you could express the idea in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “how much care I have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 2 1 xoih figs-abstractnouns ἡλίκον ἀγῶνα ἔχω 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate the abstract noun **struggle** by combining it with the verb **have**. Alternate translation: “how much I struggle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
@@ -158,7 +158,7 @@ COL 2 4 j8di figs-explicit τοῦτο 1 might deceive The word translated **thi
COL 2 4 m3lr grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 The word translated **so that** introduces Paul’s goal or purpose in saying what he has just said. Use a word or phrase that indicates goal or purpose in your language. Alternate translation: “in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
COL 2 4 ksh8 μηδεὶς ὑμᾶς παραλογίζηται 1 Alternate translation: “people cannot deceive you”
COL 2 4 y4r3 translate-unknown πιθανολογίᾳ 1 persuasive speech The word translated **persuasive speech** refers to arguments that appear plausible. The word itself does not suggest that the arguments are true or false, but the context here suggests that the arguments are false, even though they sound believable. If would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable expression or a short phrase that expresses this idea. Alternate translation: “plausible arguments” or “words that sound true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
-COL 2 5 ydw1 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 The word translated **for** introduces further reason support for why the Colossians should not be “deceived” ([2:4](../02/04.md)): even if Paul is physically absent, he is thinking about them and caring for them. If it would be helpful in your translation, you could specify what the word **for** is supporting. Alternate translation: “This persuasive speech is wrong because,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
+COL 2 5 ydw1 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 The word translated **for** introduces further reason support for why the Colossians should not be “deceived” ([2:4](../02/04.md)): even if Paul is physically absent, he is thinking about them and caring for them. If it would be helpful in your translation, you could specify what the word **for** is supporting. Alternate translation: “This persuasive speech is wrong because,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
COL 2 5 ubd9 grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ…καὶ 1 Paul speaks as if being “absent” were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language would not use a conditional statement for something that is a current fact, you could translate these words as an affirmation. Alternate translation: “while” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
COL 2 5 g1rp figs-idiom τῇ σαρκὶ ἄπειμι 1 I am absent in the flesh Being **absent in the flesh** is an idiom for not being present in person. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a comparable expression or translate the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “I am not there with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 2 5 fz3t grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 The word translated **yet** introduces a contrast with “absent in the flesh.” While the Colossians might expect that, since Paul is “absent in the flesh,” he is also absent “in the spirit,” Paul says the opposite: he is with them “in the spirit.” Use a word that indicates contrast or contraexpectation in your language. Alternate translation: “despite this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
@@ -167,7 +167,7 @@ COL 2 5 w0ye grammar-connect-time-simultaneous χαίρων καὶ βλέπων
COL 2 5 t8mc figs-hendiadys χαίρων καὶ βλέπων 1 Paul here expresses a single idea with the two words **rejoicing** and **seeing**. He means that he “rejoices” when he “sees.” If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea by translating **rejoicing** as an adverb or prepositional phrase. Alternate translation: “joyfully seeing” or “seeing with joy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
COL 2 5 ev9p translate-unknown τὴν τάξιν 1 good order The word translated **good order** refers to behavior that properly fits into a larger pattern or arrangement. In the context, that larger pattern is what God expects of his people. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a comparable term or translate the idea with a phrase. Alternate translation: “behavior that is according to God’s standards” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 2 5 hth1 figs-possession τὸ στερέωμα…πίστεως ὑμῶν 1 the strength of your faith Paul uses the possessive form to describe the Colossians’ **faith** as something that has **strength**. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea by translating **strength** with an adjective such as “strong.” Alternate translation: “your strong faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
-COL 2 6 a6cr grammar-connect-words-phrases οὖν 1 The word translated **therefore** draws an inference or conclusion from what Paul has said in [2:1–5](../05/01.md), which primarily dealt with the truth about Paul and the benefits that flow from knowing the Messiah. If it would be clearer in your language, you could specify what Paul draws his inference from. Alternate translation: “Because of what I have told you about myself and about the Messiah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
+COL 2 6 a6cr grammar-connect-words-phrases οὖν 1 The word translated **therefore** draws an inference or conclusion from what Paul has said in [2:1–5](../02/01.md), which primarily dealt with the truth about Paul and the benefits that flow from knowing the Messiah. If it would be clearer in your language, you could specify what Paul draws his inference from. Alternate translation: “Because of what I have told you about myself and about the Messiah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
COL 2 6 wqwi figs-infostructure ὡς…παρελάβετε τὸν Χριστὸν Ἰησοῦν τὸν Κύριον, ἐν αὐτῷ περιπατεῖτε, 1 Paul here draws a comparison between the way in which the Colossians received the Messiah and the way in which he wishes them to behave now. If it would be clearer in your language to put the comparison second, you could reverse the two clauses. Alternate translation: “walk in Christ Jesus the Lord just as you received him” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)
COL 2 6 s99k figs-metaphor παρελάβετε τὸν Χριστὸν 1 Paul says that the Colossians **received Christ** as if they had welcomed him into their homes or received him as a gift. What this means is that they believed in Jesus and the teachings about him. If it would be clearer, you could use a phrase from your language that refers to coming to believe in Jesus or you could express this idea in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “you first believed in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 2 6 m3f1 figs-metaphor ἐν αὐτῷ περιπατεῖτε 1 walk in him This command does not require the Colossians to walk around inside Jesus. Rather, to **walk** is a common metaphor for how people live their lives, and the words **in him** refer to being in close relationship with Christ. If it would be clearer in your language, use a verb that refers to behavior in life and connect it with how you have translated “in Christ” elsewhere. Alternate translation: “live your life united to the Messiah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
@@ -181,7 +181,7 @@ COL 2 7 j47d περισσεύοντες ἐν εὐχαριστίᾳ 1 aboundin
COL 2 8 cbw5 figs-idiom βλέπετε, μή τις ὑμᾶς ἔσται ὁ συλαγωγῶν 1 Connecting Statement: Paul uses this clause to warn the Colossians against any person who wishes to take them captive. If it would be clearer in your language, you could simplify or restructure the clause so that it does not include both **someone** and **the one**. Alternate translation: “Beware lest anyone take you captive” or “Make sure that no one takes you captive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 2 8 ga9l figs-metaphor ὑμᾶς…ὁ συλαγωγῶν 1 will be the one who takes you captive Paul speaks of those who are trying to deceive the Colossians as if they were capturing the Colossians as prisoners. He uses this language to portray the false teachers as enemies who do not care about the Colossians but only want to benefit from them. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea in non-figurative language. Alternate translation: “the one who convinces you to believe a lie” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 2 8 p3vx figs-hendiadys τῆς φιλοσοφίας καὶ κενῆς ἀπάτης 1 philosophy The words **philosophy** and **empty deceit** work together to give one idea: human philosophy that is empty of content and deceitful. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine the two nouns into one phrase by using adjectives such as “meaningless” and “deceptive.” Alternate translation: “empty, deceitful philosophy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
-COL 2 8 t8xx figs-metaphor κενῆς ἀπάτης 1 empty deceit Paul speaks of deceitful philosophy as if it was a container that had nothing in it. He means that the deceitful philosophy has nothing important or meaningful to contribute. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea in non-figurative language. Alternate translation: “valueless deceit” or “deceit with no content” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
+COL 2 8 t8xx figs-metaphor κενῆς ἀπάτης 1 empty deceit Paul speaks of deceitful philosophy as if it was a container that had nothing in it. He means that the deceitful philosophy has nothing important or meaningful to contribute. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea in non-figurative language. Alternate translation: “valueless deceit” or “deceit with no content” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 2 8 l9jt translate-unknown τὴν παράδοσιν τῶν ἀνθρώπων 1 the tradition of men … the elemental teaching of the world The **tradition of men** refers to the ways in which humans behave that they learned from their families and pass on to their children. You can make this clear by using a phrase that refers to traditions that are passed on from parents to children. Alternate translation: “customary human thinking and behavior” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 2 8 jg16 translate-unknown τὰ στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου 1 The word translated **elemental teaching** could refer to (1) basic human opinions about how the world works. Alternate translation: “human worldviews” (2) the spiritual powers of this world. Alternate translation: “spirit beings that rule the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 2 9 slg7 grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 The word translated **for** introduces a reason why the Colossians need to watch out for anyone provides teaching that is “not according to Christ” ([2:8](../02/08.md)): Christ is God and provides access to God. If it would be clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “Beware of any teaching without Christ because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
@@ -200,7 +200,7 @@ COL 2 12 s2a0 figs-synecdoche συνταφέντες 1 Here, Paul refers only t
COL 2 12 r8l8 figs-activepassive συνταφέντες αὐτῷ 1 having been buried with him in baptism If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this phrase in active form with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God burying you with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 2 12 g1rq figs-metaphor ἐν ᾧ…συνηγέρθητε 1 in whom you were raised up Paul here explains that believers are not only united to Christ in his burial but also in his resurrection. It is by being united to him in his resurrection that believers receive new life. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “in union with the Messiah in his resurrection you received new life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 2 12 yp7u figs-activepassive συνηγέρθητε 1 in whom you were raised up If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this in its active form with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God raised you up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
-COL 2 12 rec6 figs-idiom συνηγέρθητε…τοῦ ἐγείραντος αὐτὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 you were raised up Paul uses the words translated **raised up** and **raised him from the dead** to refer to someone who had died coming back to life. If this is not clear in your language, use a comparable idiom or a short phrase. Alternate translation: “you were restored to life … who restored him to life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
+COL 2 12 rec6 figs-idiom συνηγέρθητε…τοῦ ἐγείραντος αὐτὸν ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 you were raised up Paul uses the words translated **raised up** and **raised him from the dead** to refer to someone who had died coming back to life. If this is not clear in your language, use a comparable idiom or a short phrase. Alternate translation: “you were restored to life … who restored him to life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 2 12 j4uy figs-nominaladj νεκρῶν 1 Paul is using the adjective **dead** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “among the dead people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
COL 2 13 c40c grammar-connect-time-background νεκροὺς ὄντας ἐν τοῖς παραπτώμασιν καὶ τῇ ἀκροβυστίᾳ τῆς σαρκὸς ὑμῶν 1 This clause does not refer to the current situation of the Colossians but rather describes their situation before God acted to make them alive, as expressed in the rest of the verse. If it would be clearer in your language, you could clarify that this clause describes a time before “he made you alive.” Alternate translation: “who used to be dead in the trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background]])
COL 2 13 v6vi figs-metaphor ὑμᾶς νεκροὺς ὄντας 1 you, being dead Paul speaks of people who are without Christ as if they are dead. By this he means that those who lack any relationship with God and are not united to Christ are spiritually dead. If it would be clearer in your language, you could clarify that Paul speaks of spiritual death or express the idea with a simile or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “you, being like dead people” or “you, being totally separated from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
@@ -208,7 +208,7 @@ COL 2 13 emdw figs-metaphor νεκροὺς ὄντας ἐν τοῖς παρα
COL 2 13 pphm translate-unknown τῇ ἀκροβυστίᾳ τῆς σαρκὸς ὑμῶν 1 This **uncircumcision** could refer (1) to how the Colossians were not circumcised Jews and thus not part of God’s people. Alternate translation: “among the non-Jews without God’s promises” (2) to the metaphor about circumcision in [2:11](../02/11.md). Alternate translation: “apart from God’s saving work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 2 13 f9ms figs-metaphor συνεζωοποίησεν ὑμᾶς σὺν αὐτῷ 1 you, being dead … he made you alive together Here, Paul speaks of God’s work in restoring people to himself as if he brought these people back to life physically. If it would be clearer in your language, you could clarify that Paul speaks of spiritual life or express the idea with a simile or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “he did something like making you alive together with him” or “he restored you to proper relationship with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 2 13 upyk writing-pronouns συνεζωοποίησεν ὑμᾶς σὺν αὐτῷ 1 The word translated **he** refers to God the Father, while the word translated **him** refers to God the Son. If it would be clearer in your language, you could clarify the antecedent of one or both of these pronouns. Alternate translation: “he made you alive together with the Messiah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
-COL 2 14 w22z figs-metaphor ἐξαλείψας τὸ καθ’ ἡμῶν χειρόγραφον τοῖς δόγμασιν, ὃ ἦν ὑπεναντίον ἡμῖν, καὶ αὐτὸ ἦρκεν ἐκ τοῦ μέσου, προσηλώσας αὐτὸ τῷ σταυρῷ 1 having canceled the written record of the decrees against us, which were opposed to us Paul speaks of the way God forgives our sins as if God **canceled** debts that we owed him. In the metaphor, God has crossed out or erased the **written record** of those debts and thus removed any impact these debts have on our relationship to him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “having taken away the guilt from our sins, he has kept them from impacting our relationship with him, having nailed them to the cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
+COL 2 14 w22z figs-metaphor ἐξαλείψας τὸ καθ’ ἡμῶν χειρόγραφον τοῖς δόγμασιν, ὃ ἦν ὑπεναντίον ἡμῖν, καὶ αὐτὸ ἦρκεν ἐκ τοῦ μέσου, προσηλώσας αὐτὸ τῷ σταυρῷ 1 having canceled the written record of the decrees against us, which were opposed to us Paul speaks of the way God forgives our sins as if God **canceled** debts that we owed him. In the metaphor, God has crossed out or erased the **written record** of those debts and thus removed any impact these debts have on our relationship to him. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “having taken away the guilt from our sins, he has kept them from impacting our relationship with him, having nailed them to the cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 2 14 k0fg figs-explicitinfo καθ’ ἡμῶν…ὃ ἦν ὑπεναντίον ἡμῖν 1 The phrases translated **against us** and **opposed to us** might be considered redundant in your language. If this is the case, you could combine the two phrases into one. Alternate translation: “which were opposed to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinfo]])
COL 2 14 phgg figs-metaphor αὐτὸ ἦρκεν ἐκ τοῦ μέσου 1 Paul speaks as if the “written record” was within the community of believers, and God takes it away. What he means by this is that the “written record” of our sins no longer affects our relationship with God and each other. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “he has kept it from affecting our relationship with him and others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 2 14 o5mx figs-metaphor προσηλώσας αὐτὸ τῷ σταυρῷ 1 Here, Paul speaks as if God had nailed the “written record” to the cross. He means that Christ’s death on the cross “canceled” the “written record” as surely as if it had been nailed to the cross and died with him. If it would be clearly in your language, you could express this idea using a simile or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “destroying it through the Messiah’s death on the cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
@@ -238,7 +238,7 @@ COL 2 18 if94 figs-possession τοῦ νοὸς τῆς σαρκὸς αὐτο
COL 2 19 m2dz figs-metaphor οὐ κρατῶν τὴν κεφαλήν 1 not holding on to the head Paul describes the false teachers as if they had let go of the **head**, which is Christ. This means that they have stopped treating Christ as the source and authority behind their teaching. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a comparable expression or translate the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “not staying connected to the head” or “not treating Christ as most important” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 2 19 r4ca figs-exmetaphor τὴν κεφαλήν, ἐξ οὗ πᾶν τὸ σῶμα διὰ τῶν ἁφῶν καὶ συνδέσμων ἐπιχορηγούμενον καὶ συμβιβαζόμενον, αὔξει τὴν αὔξησιν τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 from which the whole body throughout the joints and ligaments is being supplied and held together In this verse, Paul uses an extended metaphor in which Christ is the **head** of the **body**, which is his church, which has **joints** and **ligaments**, and which **grows**. Paul uses this metaphor to describe how Christ leads, directs, nourishes, and unifies his church to help it become what he wants it to be. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea using the language of analogy or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “to the Messiah, from whom the whole church receives nourishment and leadership and in whom the church is united as it grows with the growth from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
COL 2 19 i2yd figs-activepassive ἐξ οὗ πᾶν τὸ σῶμα διὰ τῶν ἁφῶν καὶ συνδέσμων ἐπιχορηγούμενον καὶ συμβιβαζόμενον 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this in active form. Alternate translation: “which supplies and holds the whole body together throughout the joints and ligaments” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
-COL 2 19 qnsp translate-unknown τῶν ἁφῶν καὶ συνδέσμων 1 The word translated **joints** refers to where parts of the body are connected together, while the word translated **ligaments** refers to what holds these parts together. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use technical terms that correspond to **joints** and **ligaments** or you could use more general language for what holds the body together. Alternate translation: “what holds it together” or “all its parts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
+COL 2 19 qnsp translate-unknown τῶν ἁφῶν καὶ συνδέσμων 1 The word translated **joints** refers to where parts of the body are connected together, while the word translated **ligaments** refers to what holds these parts together. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could use technical terms that correspond to **joints** and **ligaments** or you could use more general language for what holds the body together. Alternate translation: “what holds it together” or “all its parts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 2 19 wcds figs-doublet αὔξει τὴν αὔξησιν 1 The words translated **grows** and **growth** are directly related and may be redundant in your language. If it would be clearer, you could use just one form of “grow.” Alternate translation: “experiences the growth from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
COL 2 19 n3y4 figs-possession τὴν αὔξησιν τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Paul here speaks of **growth** that is **from God** to show that the church’s **growth** is given by **God** and fits with what **God** desires. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea with a relative clause. Alternate translation: “with the growth that God gives” or “with the growth that God enables” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
COL 2 20 cpki grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ ἀπεθάνετε σὺν Χριστῷ 1 Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, then you could translate the clause as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Since you died with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
@@ -247,7 +247,7 @@ COL 2 20 oshk figs-idiom ἀπεθάνετε…ἀπὸ 1 To “die from” som
COL 2 20 ydqo translate-unknown τῶν στοιχείων τοῦ κόσμου 1 As in [2:8](../02/08.md), the word translated **elemental principles** could refer to (1) the spiritual powers of this world. Alternate translation: “the powerful spiritual beings of the world” (2) basic human opinions about how the world works. Alternate translation: “the elemental human teaching about the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 2 20 uu77 figs-infostructure τί ὡς ζῶντες ἐν κόσμῳ δογματίζεσθε 1 as living in the world, are you being subjected to its decrees If it would be clearer in your language, you could move the phrase **as living in the world** to the end of the sentence. Alternate translation: “why are you being subjected to its decrees as living in the world” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)
COL 2 20 xm1v grammar-connect-condition-contrary ὡς ζῶντες ἐν κόσμῳ 1 In this context, the word translated **as** introduces something that is not true: the Colossians actually do not live **in the world**. If it would be clearer in your language, you could clarify that **living in the world** is not true of the Colossians with a phrase such as “as if.” Alternate translation: “as if living in the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-contrary]])
-COL 2 20 ywkx figs-idiom ζῶντες ἐν κόσμῳ 1 Paul uses the verb **living** to describe the Colossian’s way of life. They are indeed alive and in the world, but he wants them to behave in ways that do not match what people in the world normally do. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea with a verbal phrase such as “belonging to” or “conforming to.” Alternate translation: “belonging to the world” or “conforming to the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
+COL 2 20 ywkx figs-idiom ζῶντες ἐν κόσμῳ 1 Paul uses the verb **living** to describe the Colossian’s way of life. They are indeed alive and in the world, but he wants them to behave in ways that do not match what people in the world normally do. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea with a verbal phrase such as “belonging to” or “conforming to.” Alternate translation: “belonging to the world” or “conforming to the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 2 20 fe1k figs-rquestion τί ὡς ζῶντες ἐν κόσμῳ δογματίζεσθε 1 of the world Paul is using the question form to make the Colossians think about what they are doing, not because he wants an answer. The question is intended to show the Colossians that **being subjected** to the world’s **decrees** is clearly wrong because it does not match with how they have “died with Christ.” If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this question as a command or statement. Alternate translation: “do not, as living in the world, be subjected to its decrees” or “you should not, as living in the world, be subjected to its decrees” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
COL 2 20 g0jz figs-activepassive δογματίζεσθε 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this in its active form, perhaps by using a similar verb. Alternate translation: “do you submit to its decrees” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 2 21 v9e7 0 Connecting Statement: This verse gives three commands that are not from Paul but rather are examples of the “decrees” from [2:20](../02/20.md). If it would be clearer in your language, you could introduce these commands with a phrase such as “for example” that shows that they connected to the “decrees” in the previous verse.
@@ -258,7 +258,7 @@ COL 2 22 ogj7 translate-unknown εἰς φθορὰν τῇ ἀποχρήσει
COL 2 22 klsg figs-possession τὰ ἐντάλματα καὶ διδασκαλίας τῶν ἀνθρώπων 1 Paul here uses the possessive form to describe **commands and teachings** that come from **men**. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea by translating **commands and teachings** with verbs, or you could clarify that these teachings “come from” **men**. Alternate translation: “how men command and teach” or “the commands and teachings that come from men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
COL 2 22 oqmf figs-gendernotations τῶν ἀνθρώπων 1 The word translated **men** does not refer to only male people but rather to all humans. Alternate translation: “of humans” or “of people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
COL 2 23 r2m8 figs-idiom λόγον μὲν ἔχοντα σοφίας 1 Commands that have **a word of wisdom** are commands that come from wise thinking or require wise behavior. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this idiom with a comparable expression or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “are indeed characterized by wisdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
-COL 2 23 y2dc grammar-connect-condition-hypo ἅτινά…λόγον μὲν ἔχοντα σοφίας ἐν ἐθελοθρησκείᾳ καὶ ταπεινοφροσύνῃ, ἀφειδίᾳ σώματος 1 These, having indeed a word of wisdom in self-made religion and false humility and severity of the body While there is no grammatical marker for a condition here, the word **in** functionally introduces a condition: these commands have a **word of wisdom** if one values **self-made religion and false humility and severity of the body**. It is only if one values these things that the commands have wisdom. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this idea with a conditional or use the word “seem.” Alternate translation: “which, having indeed a word of wisdom if one values self-made religion and false humility and severity of the body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
+COL 2 23 y2dc figs-hypo ἅτινά…λόγον μὲν ἔχοντα σοφίας ἐν ἐθελοθρησκείᾳ καὶ ταπεινοφροσύνῃ, ἀφειδίᾳ σώματος 1 These, having indeed a word of wisdom in self-made religion and false humility and severity of the body While there is no grammatical marker for a condition here, the word **in** functionally introduces a condition: these commands have a **word of wisdom** if one values **self-made religion and false humility and severity of the body**. It is only if one values these things that the commands have wisdom. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this idea with a conditional or use the word “seem.” Alternate translation: “which, having indeed a word of wisdom if one values self-made religion and false humility and severity of the body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
COL 2 23 vr8p translate-unknown ἐθελοθρησκείᾳ 1 The word translated **self-made religion** could describe (1) people who worship God however they want to. Alternate translation: “invented religion” (2) people who pretend to worship God but do not. Alternate translation: “mock worship” or “false worship” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 2 23 g9i8 translate-unknown ἀφειδίᾳ σώματος 1 The phrase **severity of the body** refers to treating one’s body harshly as part of one's religious practice. This could include beating oneself, not eating enough, or other ascetic practices. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use an expression that has this meaning or translate the idea with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “and wounding one’s body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 2 23 e7p5 figs-abstractnouns ἐστιν…οὐκ ἐν τιμῇ τινι 1 are not of any value against the indulgence of the flesh If it would be clearer, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **value** by combining it with the verbal phrase **are not** to create a phrase such as “do nothing” or “are ineffective.” Alternate translation: “do nothing” or “are ineffective” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
@@ -268,7 +268,7 @@ COL 3 intro qtl2 0 # Colossians 3 General Notes
## Structure and forma
COL 3 1 r5yh grammar-connect-words-phrases οὖν 1 If, therefore The word translated **therefore** introduces an inference or, in this case, an exhortation based on what Paul has already said about being “raised with Christ” in [2:12](../02/12.md). Use a word or phrase that introduces an inference or concluding command based on what has already been said. Alternate translation: “then” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
COL 3 1 oav8 grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ…συνηγέρθητε τῷ Χριστῷ 1 Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Since … you were raised with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
COL 3 1 t1jv figs-metaphor συνηγέρθητε τῷ Χριστῷ 1 you were raised with Christ Paul again states that believers have been raised from the dead with Christ. By this, he means that, by being united to Christ in his resurrection, believers receive new life. If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “in union with the Messiah in his resurrection you received new life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
-COL 3 1 qmzv figs-idiom συνηγέρθητε 1 you were raised with Christ Paul uses the word translated **raised** to refer to someone who had died coming back to life. If this is not clear in your language, use a comparable idiom or a short phrase. Alternate translation: “you were restored to life with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
+COL 3 1 qmzv figs-idiom συνηγέρθητε 1 you were raised with Christ Paul uses the word translated **raised** to refer to someone who had died coming back to life. If this is not clear in your language, use a comparable idiom or a short phrase. Alternate translation: “you were restored to life with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 3 1 sl1f figs-activepassive συνηγέρθητε 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could translate this in active form with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God the Father raised you with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 3 1 vuct τὰ ἄνω ζητεῖτε 1 Alternate translation: “direct your attention to the things above” or “focus on the things above”
COL 3 1 p3fw translate-unknown τὰ ἄνω 1 the things above The **things above** is another term for heavenly things, which is clear from the next phrase. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could clarify that **things above** refers specifically to things in heaven. Alternate translation: “the heavenly things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
@@ -293,7 +293,7 @@ COL 3 5 p9w9 translate-unknown ἀκαθαρσίαν 1 uncleanness The Word tran
COL 3 5 e65k translate-unknown πάθος 1 passion The word translated **passion** refers to negative emotions that are triggered by outside events. Examples would include forms of anger and jealousy. If it would clearer for your readers, you could clarify that these are improper emotions, since Paul is not saying that all emotions are wrong. Alternate translation: “improper emotions” or “evil passions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 5 l9rv translate-unknown ἐπιθυμίαν κακήν 1 The word translated **desire** refers to longing after something, often in a sexual context. If it would be clearer for your readers, you could use a comparable word or express the idea with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “evil lust” or “evil longing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 5 h5v4 translate-unknown τὴν πλεονεξίαν 1 envy, which is idolatry The word translated **envy** refers to wanting more than one has. Paul uses it to refer to wanting more than one needs, especially wanting more than what others have. If you have a comparable term, you could use if here, or you could express the idea with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “desiring to have more than what others have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
-COL 3 6 dj6g grammar-connect-logic-result δι’ ἃ 1 With this phrase, Paul identifies the sins listed in the previous verse as the reason why God’s “wrath” is coming. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could clarify this idea by including a word such as “sins” in the phrase. Alternate translation: “because of these sins” [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
+COL 3 6 dj6g grammar-connect-logic-result δι’ ἃ 1 With this phrase, Paul identifies the sins listed in the previous verse as the reason why God’s “wrath” is coming. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could clarify this idea by including a word such as “sins” in the phrase. Alternate translation: “because of these sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
COL 3 6 s9lm figs-metaphor ἔρχεται ἡ ὀργὴ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the wrath of God Here, Paul speaks of **the wrath of God** as if it were a person or package that can arrive somewhere. By this, he means that **the wrath of God** has not yet been acted upon but that it will soon, just like a package that is arriving soon. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “God will act upon his wrath soon” or “the wrath of God will be enacted soon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 6 ygaj figs-explicit ἔρχεται ἡ ὀργὴ τοῦ Θεοῦ, 1 When the **wrath of God** “comes,” it must arrive somewhere and be against certain people. If it would be helpful for you readers, you could clarify that the **wrath** of God comes on earth and against those who do the sins listed in the previous verse. Alternate translation: “the wrath of God is coming against those who do these things on earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
COL 3 6 xb24 figs-metonymy ἡ ὀργὴ τοῦ Θεοῦ, 1 The **wrath of God** does not refer simply to an emotion. Rather this phrase primarily refers to God action against the sin he hates (examples of which appear in the previous verse). If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a word or phrase that indicates action and not just emotion. Alternate translation: “punishment from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
@@ -326,7 +326,7 @@ COL 3 10 jep5 τοῦ κτίσαντος 1 Alternate translation: “of God, w
COL 3 10 xnc0 writing-pronouns αὐτόν 1 The pronoun translated **it** refers to “the new man.” If this is not clear in your language, you could translate **it** with a phrase that more clearly refers back to “the new man.” Alternate translation: “this new man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
COL 3 11 wnmm figs-metaphor ὅπου 1 Here, Paul refers to the “new man” from the previous verse as if it were a place one could be in. This means that the word translated **where** refers to the new situation of those who have put on this “new man.” If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea by identifying those who have put on the “new man” as the ones addressed by this verse. Alternate translation: (start a new sentence) “For those who have put on the new man,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 11 mrpc figs-hyperbole οὐκ ἔνι 1 Here, Paul speaks as if none of the kinds of people he mentions exist in this new situation. He speaks in this way to emphasize how little the differences between all these kinds of people matter once they have died and risen with Christ; they all fit into the category of the “new man” now. If it would clearer in your language, you could express this idea without the hyperbole by emphasizing the new unity of people from all these categories. Alternate translation: “all people are the same,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
-COL 3 11 t2w2 grammar-collectivenouns Ἕλλην καὶ Ἰουδαῖος, περιτομὴ καὶ ἀκροβυστία, βάρβαρος, Σκύθης, δοῦλος, ἐλεύθερος 1 there is no Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave, freeman All these terms are nouns that refer to groups of people that are characterized by the trait that the noun names. If your language has a way to categorize people by characteristics, you could use that form here. Alternate translation: “Greek and Jewish people, circumcised and uncircumcised people, barbaric people, Scythian people, enslaved people, free people”
+COL 3 11 t2w2 grammar-collectivenouns Ἕλλην καὶ Ἰουδαῖος, περιτομὴ καὶ ἀκροβυστία, βάρβαρος, Σκύθης, δοῦλος, ἐλεύθερος 1 there is no Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave, freeman All these terms are nouns that refer to groups of people that are characterized by the trait that the noun names. If your language has a way to categorize people by characteristics, you could use that form here. Alternate translation: “Greek and Jewish people, circumcised and uncircumcised people, barbaric people, Scythian people, enslaved people, free people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
COL 3 11 vt4t translate-unknown βάρβαρος 1 barbarian The word translated **barbarian** was used by people who spoke Greek to describe anyone who did not speak Greek. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea with a word such as “foreign.” Alternate translation: “alien” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 11 n7by translate-unknown Σκύθης 1 Scythian The word translated **Scythian** was used to describe a nomadic group of people who were fierce warriors. It was also used to describe those who behaved in similar ways, often considered rough or rude. If it would be clearer in your language, you could add an adjective before **Scythian** to clarify its connotation. Alternate translation: “uncivilized Scythian” or “rough Scythian” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 11 i964 figs-metaphor πάντα καὶ…Χριστός 1 but Christ is all, and in all Here, Paul speaks **Christ** as if he himself were **all** things. By this, he means that none of the categories he just listed matter because Christ is the only thing that matters. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea with a verb such as “matters” or noun such as of “importance.” Alternate translation: “Christ is all that matters, and he is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
@@ -342,7 +342,7 @@ COL 3 12 dzuj translate-unknown πραΰτητα 1 put on inward parts of mercy,
COL 3 12 yn05 translate-unknown μακροθυμίαν 1 put on inward parts of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience In this context, the word translated **patience** refers to the ability to remain calm and even-tempered even when others do things that provoke one to anger. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable word or express the idea with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “and forbearance” or “and the ability to remain calm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 13 m1d9 figs-infostructure ἀνεχόμενοι ἀλλήλων καὶ χαριζόμενοι ἑαυτοῖς, ἐάν τις πρός τινα ἔχῃ μομφήν 1 bearing with one another If it would be clearer in your language to have the conditional statement first, you could move the **if** clause to the beginning, starting a new sentence. Alternate translation: “If someone may have a complaint against someone else, bear with one another and be gracious to each other” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)
COL 3 13 r8iy figs-idiom ἀνεχόμενοι ἀλλήλων 1 bearing with one another The phrase translated **bearing with one another** was used by Greek speakers to refer to being patient with others, even when they do things that are annoying or strange. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “putting up with one another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
-COL 3 13 rts1 grammar-connect-condition-hypo ἐάν 1 being gracious to each other Paul uses **if** to introduce a hypothetical situation that he thinks will happen to the Colossians at many times. It is in this kind of situation that he wants them to “bear with one another and be gracious to each other.” If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express this idea by using a word or phrase that refers to any time something happens. Alternate translation: “whenever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
+COL 3 13 rts1 figs-hypo ἐάν 1 being gracious to each other Paul uses **if** to introduce a hypothetical situation that he thinks will happen to the Colossians at many times. It is in this kind of situation that he wants them to “bear with one another and be gracious to each other.” If it would be clearer for your readers, you could express this idea by using a word or phrase that refers to any time something happens. Alternate translation: “whenever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
COL 3 13 f5f9 figs-idiom τις πρός τινα ἔχῃ μομφήν 1 being gracious to each other This phrase indicates a situation in which one person feels offended or hurt by another person. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or an expression that indicates that one party has been offended or hurt by another. Alternate translation: “a person has been offended by another person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 3 13 p474 figs-abstractnouns πρός…ἔχῃ μομφήν 1 may have a complaint against If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **complaint** by combining it with the verb **have** into a verb such as “complain.” Alternate translation: “may complain against” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 3 13 lp1o figs-infostructure καθὼς καὶ ὁ Κύριος ἐχαρίσατο ὑμῖν, οὕτως καὶ ὑμεῖς 1 may have a complaint against If it would be clearer in your language to have the comparison after the command, you could switch them in your translation, including “forgive” in the new first clause. Alternate translation: “you should forgive others, just as the Lord forgave you” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)
@@ -352,7 +352,7 @@ COL 3 14 l1ik figs-metaphor ἐπὶ πᾶσιν δὲ τούτοις, τὴν
COL 3 14 c5o7 figs-abstractnouns τὴν ἀγάπην 1 love, which is the bond of perfection If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **love** with a verb, with (1) other believers as the object. Alternate translation: “love each other” (2) other believers and God as the object. Alternate translation: “love God and each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 3 14 x5g8 figs-metaphor ὅ ἐστιν σύνδεσμος τῆς τελειότητος 1 love, which is the bond of perfection Here, **the bond of perfection** is a metaphor for something brings things together in perfect unity. This could refer to (1) the perfect unity in community that Paul wishes for believers. Alternate translation: “which brings you together in perfect unity” (2) the perfect unity that love brings to all Christian virtues. Alternate translation: “which brings all these virtues together to perfection” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 15 gtz3 figs-imperative ἡ εἰρήνη τοῦ Χριστοῦ βραβευέτω ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν 1 let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts Here, Paul uses a third person imperative. If you have third person imperatives in your language, you could use one here. If you do not have third person imperatives, you translate this imperative in the second person, with the Colossians as the subject of a verb such as “obey” and the **peace of Christ** as the object. Alternate translation: “in your hearts obey the peace of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
-COL 3 15 hdg5 figs-metaphor ἡ εἰρήνη τοῦ Χριστοῦ βραβευέτω ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν 1 let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts Paul speaks of the **peace of Christ** as if it should be the “ruler” in the Colossians’ hearts. The word translated **rule** is closely related to the word translated **deprive of your prize** Paul uses in [2:18](../02/18.md): both are used of a judge or an umpire making a decision, although in [2:18](../02/18.md), the judge or umpire decides against the Colossians. Here, the idea is that the **peace of Christ** acts as the judge or umpire in the **hearts** of the Colossians, which means that this **peace** helps them decide what to feel and do. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “let the peace of Christ make your decisions in your hearts (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
+COL 3 15 hdg5 figs-metaphor ἡ εἰρήνη τοῦ Χριστοῦ βραβευέτω ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ὑμῶν 1 let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts Paul speaks of the **peace of Christ** as if it should be the “ruler” in the Colossians’ hearts. The word translated **rule** is closely related to the word translated **deprive of your prize** Paul uses in [2:18](../02/18.md): both are used of a judge or an umpire making a decision, although in [2:18](../02/18.md), the judge or umpire decides against the Colossians. Here, the idea is that the **peace of Christ** acts as the judge or umpire in the **hearts** of the Colossians, which means that this **peace** helps them decide what to feel and do. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “let the peace of Christ make your decisions in your hearts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 3 15 okpr writing-pronouns ἣν 1 in your hearts The pronoun translated **which** refers to “the peace of Christ.” If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this explicitly. Alternate translation: “which peace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
COL 3 15 nj4e figs-activepassive καὶ ἐκλήθητε 1 in your hearts If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this in active form with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “God also called you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
COL 3 15 pod6 figs-metaphor ἐν ἑνὶ σώματι 1 in your hearts Paul speaks of the Colossians as if they were **in**, or part of, **one body**. With this metaphor, he clarifies the situation in which they have been called to peace: in the **one body**, which is the church. Just as the parts of a body are at “peace” with each other (when the body is working properly), so also the Colossians are to be at peace with each other in the church. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “as you together make up the church” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
@@ -378,7 +378,7 @@ COL 3 18 b2y3 translate-unknown ἀνῆκεν 1 is fitting The word translated
COL 3 19 apyy οἱ ἄνδρες 1 do not be embittered against Here, Paul directly addresses the **husbands** in the audience. Use a form in your language that indicates that the speaker is singling out a specific group of people as the intended audience of the following words. Alternate translation: “You husbands”
COL 3 19 lc4a translate-unknown μὴ πικραίνεσθε πρὸς 1 do not be embittered against The word translated **be embittered** could refer to (1) the husband doing or saying things that cause his wife to be bitter or upset with him. Alternate translation: “do not do what makes them bitter against you” (2) the husband becoming bitter or upside with his wife for doing or saying certain things. Alternate translation: “do not become bitter against them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 20 mlu2 τὰ τέκνα 1 do not be embittered against Here, Paul directly addresses the **Children** in the audience. Use a form in your language that indicates that the speaker is singling out a specific group of people as the intended audience of the following words. Alternate translation: “You children”
-COL 3 20 gu2o figs-idiom κατὰ πάντα 1 do not be embittered against The phrase translated **in all things** is an idiom that indicates that children should obey “everything their parents command” or “in every situation.” If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or indicate what the **things** are. Alternate translation: “in everything they tell you to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
+COL 3 20 gu2o figs-idiom κατὰ πάντα 1 do not be embittered against The phrase translated **in all things** is an idiom that indicates that children should obey “everything their parents command” or “in every situation.” If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or indicate what the **things** are. Alternate translation: “in everything they tell you to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 3 20 kadq grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 do not be embittered against The word translated **for** introduces the basis or reason for something, here Paul’s command to children. Use a word that indicates the reason for a command in your language. Alternate translation: “since” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
COL 3 20 vbad translate-unknown εὐάρεστόν ἐστιν 1 do not be embittered against If something **is pleasing**, that means that the person it “pleases” finds that thing acceptable, agreeable, or pleasant. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could use a word that emphasizes that obedience to parents is something that is acceptable to God. Alternate translation: “is acceptable” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 20 vps1 figs-explicit εὐάρεστόν 1 do not be embittered against Paul does not state to whom obedience to parents is **pleasing**, but it is clear that it pleases God. If it would be clearer in your language, you could expressly state that it is God who is pleased. Alternate translation: “pleasing to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
@@ -388,7 +388,7 @@ COL 3 21 ozeh grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα μὴ ἀθυμῶσιν 1 do n
COL 3 21 bjk2 translate-unknown ἀθυμῶσιν 1 do not provoke your children The word translated **they may … be discouraged** describes the feeling of despair or hopelessness. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a word or idiom that expresses this idea. Alternate translation: “they may … despair” or “they may … lose heart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 22 lf6k οἱ δοῦλοι 1 all things, not with eyeservice as people pleasers Here, Paul directly addresses the **Slaves** in the audience. Use a form in your language that indicates that the speaker is singling out a specific group of people as the intended audience of the following words. Alternate translation: “You slaves”
COL 3 22 cx6a figs-idiom τοῖς κατὰ σάρκα κυρίοις 1 obey your masters according to the flesh The idiom **according to the flesh** refers to humans on this earth. Paul uses this idiom to describe these **masters** because he is already setting up a contrast with the “Master” over these masters: Jesus (see [4:1](../04/01.md)). If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or express the idea with an adjective such as “human” or “earthly.” Alternate translation: “your earthly masters” or “your human masters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
-COL 3 22 iy1n figs-idiom κατὰ πάντα 1 all things, not with eyeservice as people pleasers Just as in [3:20](../03/20.md), the phrase translated **in all things** is an idiom that indicates that slaves should obey “everything their masters command” or “in every situation.” If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or indicate what the **things** are. Alternate translation: “in everything they tell you to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
+COL 3 22 iy1n figs-idiom κατὰ πάντα 1 all things, not with eyeservice as people pleasers Just as in [3:20](../03/20.md), the phrase translated **in all things** is an idiom that indicates that slaves should obey “everything their masters command” or “in every situation.” If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable idiom or indicate what the **things** are. Alternate translation: “in everything they tell you to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
COL 3 22 p36t translate-unknown μὴ ἐν ὀφθαλμοδουλεία 1 all things, not with eyeservice as people pleasers The word translated **eyeservice** describes how people sometimes behave more to look good than to do the right thing. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable expression or a short phrase such as “wanting to look impressive.” Alternate translation: “not focusing on how you appear to others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 22 b5en translate-unknown ὡς ἀνθρωπάρεσκοι 1 all things, not with eyeservice as people pleasers The word translated **people pleasers** describes the kind of people who care about “eyeservice.” **People pleasers** are those who focus on impressing humans rather than doing what God desires. If it would be clearer in your language, you could emphasize that that **people pleasers** want to please humans only, not God. Alternate translation: “as people who want to please humans rather than God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 3 22 r22m figs-possession ἐν ἁπλότητι καρδίας 1 with sincerity of heart Paul here uses the possessive form to describe a **heart** that is characterized by its **sincerity**. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea by translating **sincerity** with an adjective such as “sincere.” Alternate translation: “with a sincere heart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
@@ -434,7 +434,7 @@ COL 4 5 nvqu grammar-connect-time-simultaneous ἐξαγοραζόμενοι 1 W
COL 4 5 b525 figs-metaphor τὸν καιρὸν ἐξαγοραζόμενοι 1 redeeming the time Here, Paul speaks of **time** as something that one could be **redeeming**. The picture is of a person buying time from someone else. Paul uses this picture to describe making the most of (**redeeming**) one’s opportunities (**the time**). If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea with a comparable metaphor or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “making the most of every chance you have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 4 6 bza7 0 your words always with grace, seasoned with salt This verse provides one way in which Paul wants the Colossians to “walk in wisdom toward those outside” ([4:5](../04/05.md)). They are to speak with words that are compelling and carefully chosen to fit the situation.
COL 4 6 v14n figs-ellipsis ὁ λόγος ὑμῶν πάντοτε ἐν χάριτι 1 your words always with grace, seasoned with salt Paul has not included a verb for “speaking” in this phrase because it was not necessary in his language. If your language would require a verb of speaking here, you could include it. Alternate translation: “speaking your words always with grace” or “your words always spoken with grace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
-COL 4 6 u9mh figs-abstractnouns ἐν χάριτι 1 your words always with grace, seasoned with salt If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun with an adjective such as “gracious” or “pleasant.” Alternate translation: “gracious” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
+COL 4 6 u9mh figs-abstractnouns ἐν χάριτι 1 your words always with grace, seasoned with salt If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun with an adjective such as “gracious” or “pleasant.” Alternate translation: “gracious” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 4 6 fuv5 figs-metaphor ἅλατι ἠρτυμένος 1 your words always with grace, seasoned with salt In this culture, when food is **seasoned with salt**, it tastes good and is nourishing. Paul is thus speaking of making one’s “words” **seasoned with salt**, which means that the words should be interesting (like food that tastes good) and helpful (like food that is nourishing). If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea with a comparable idiom or non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “both compelling and helpful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 4 6 c1w4 grammar-connect-logic-result εἰδέναι 1 to know how it is necessary for you to answer Here, Paul uses the word translated **to know** to tell the Colossians what the result will be if they speak words “with grace” and “seasoned with salt.” If it would be clearer, you could use a word or phrase in your language that more clearly expresses that Paul is speaking about a result. Alternate translation: “with the result that you will know” or “so that you might know” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
COL 4 6 jdtx πῶς δεῖ ὑμᾶς…ἀποκρίνεσθαι 1 to know how it is necessary for you to answer Alternate translation: “how to best answer” or “the right answer to give to”
@@ -478,7 +478,7 @@ COL 4 12 p8ff figs-metaphor ἀγωνιζόμενος ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν ἐ
COL 4 12 sn23 grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 you may stand complete and fully assured The word translated **so that** could introduce (1) the purpose or goal of Epaphras’s prayers. Alternate translation: “in order that” (2) the content of Epaphras’s prayers. Alternate translation: “asking that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
COL 4 12 nuh9 figs-metaphor σταθῆτε τέλειοι καὶ πεπληροφορημένοι ἐν παντὶ θελήματι τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 you may stand complete and fully assured Here, Paul speaks as if the Colossians can **stand … in all the will of God**. By this, he means that they should consistently do God’s will, just as if God’s will was something that they kept their feet on without moving. The words translated **complete and fully assured** explain the way in which they are supposed to **stand**, or continue to obey. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a comparable metaphor or express the idea non-figuratively. Alternate translation: “you may be complete and fully assured as you consistently do all the will of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
COL 4 12 t6o3 translate-unknown τέλειοι 1 you may stand complete and fully assured The word translated **complete** in this context means that a person is what he or she is supposed to be and is able to do what he or she is called to do. If this is not clear in your language, you could use a word that has this meaning, such as “perfect” or “excellent,” or translate **complete** with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “fit for what God has called you to be” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown)
-COL 4 12 ojtu translate-unkown πεπληροφορημένοι 1 you may stand complete and fully assured The word translated **fully assured** describes people who are confident or sure of what they believe and do. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “convinced about what you know” or “without doubts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
+COL 4 12 ojtu translate-unknown πεπληροφορημένοι 1 you may stand complete and fully assured The word translated **fully assured** describes people who are confident or sure of what they believe and do. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this idea with a short phrase. Alternate translation: “convinced about what you know” or “without doubts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
COL 4 13 sg4h grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 I testify for him, that he has much hard labor on behalf of you The word translated **For** introduces further support for Paul’s statements about Epaphras in the previous verse. In [4:12](../04/12.md), Paul says that Epaphras is “always striving” for them, and he supports that here by giving his own testimony about how hard Epaphras has worked for the Colossians and other believers who live near them. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use a word or phrase that introduces support for a previous statement or refer back to what Paul is supporting. Alternate translation: “You can be sure that he does this because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
COL 4 13 k8vv figs-abstractnouns ἔχει πολὺν πόνον 1 I testify for him, that he has much hard labor on behalf of you If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **labor** by combining it with **has** to create one verb such as “labor.” Alternate translation: “he labors diligently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
COL 4 13 zzc8 figs-ellipsis τῶν ἐν Λαοδικίᾳ, καὶ τῶν ἐν Ἱεραπόλει 1 I testify for him, that he has much hard labor on behalf of you Here, Paul leaves out who **those** refers to, since in his language it was clear that **those** refers to people who live in the cities he mentions. If it would be clearer in your language, you could clarify that **those** refers to believers who live in these two towns. Alternate translation: “of believers who live in Laodicea, and of believers who live in Hierapolis” or “of believers who live in Laodicea and Hierapolis” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])