A word study of Colossians 2:6 / “παρελάβετε” (parelabete)
Colossians 2:6 states: “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him.”
The primary Greek word in focus here in this passage is the word “παρελάβετε” (parelabete), which is often translated (in many English versions) simply as “received.” This word (parelabete), conveys the idea of someone accepting Christ — simply by FAITH, into their life. To receive — to take in, take hold, embrace and welcome whole-heartedly. This expands far beyond just a mental acceptance of ideas, but rather speaks to the acceptance of Christ’s divine presence, His unfathomable love, His unending grace, His life-changing teaching, His sacrificial act upon the cross (and much more) — into one’s life.
Here’s a breakdown of the key word “παρελάβετε”:
- Root and Form: “παρελάβετε” is derived from the verb “παραλαμβάνω” (paralambano). The form used in this verse is the aorist active indicative, second person plural of the verb.
- Meaning: “παραλαμβάνω” can be translated as “to receive,” “to take,” or “to accept.” It often implies receiving something transmitted by tradition or teaching, and can mean to take into oneself, to receive in a formal sense, or to acknowledge.
- Context in Colossians: In the context of Colossians 2:6, “παρελάβετε” suggests not only the act of receiving Christ in a doctrinal sense but also embracing Him and the teachings about Him. It encompasses accepting the message of Christ and committing to living by it.
- Theological Implication: The use of “παρελάβετε” in this verse underscores a foundational moment of accepting Jesus Christ as Lord. It implies that the Colossian believers have accepted the teachings and authority of Jesus, which forms the basis for the exhortation to “continue to live your lives in him.”
To understand this verse in context, let’s break it down phrase by phrase:
- “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord”:
- Received Christ Jesus as Lord: This phrase refers to the initial act of accepting Jesus Christ as one’s personal Lord and Savior. In the context of the Colossian believers, it reflects their conversion experience, where they acknowledged Jesus’ lordship and committed to following Him.
- Just as you received: This emphasizes the importance of the manner in which they received Christ – likely with faith, sincerity, and commitment.
- “Continue to live your lives in him”:
- Continue: This implies ongoing action. The Christian life is not just a one-time event but a continual process.
- Live your lives in him: This phrase means to conduct one’s life in accordance with the teachings and example of Jesus. It involves maintaining a close, dynamic relationship with Christ, allowing Him to guide and influence one’s daily actions and decisions.
Context and Application
In the broader context of Colossians, Paul is addressing the church at Colossae, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith. He warns them against false teachings and philosophies that could lead them away from the truth of the Gospel (Colossians 2:8). By urging them to continue living in Christ as they initially received Him, Paul emphasizes the importance of maintaining their original commitment and not being swayed by external influences.
Practical Implications
- Consistency in Faith: Believers are encouraged to maintain the same level of faith and dedication throughout their lives as they had when they first believed.
- Growth and Maturity: Continuously living in Christ involves growing in spiritual maturity, understanding, and practice.
- Dependence on Christ: Living in Him suggests reliance on Christ for strength, guidance, and sustenance in all aspects of life.
- Guarding Against Deception: By rooting their lives in Christ, believers are better equipped to discern and reject false teachings and deceptive philosophies.
In summary, Colossians 2:6 is a call to Christians to maintain a consistent and growing relationship with Christ, rooted in the faith and commitment they had at the beginning of their spiritual journey.