Colossians 1:21

French Bible (BBB) Bible Bovet Bonnet (1900)

Et vous, qui étiez autrefois étrangers, et ennemis par vos pensées et par vos mauvaises œuvres,

What Does This Mean?

This verse tells us that once we were far from God and even against Him because of our wrong actions, but now He has brought us back into a relationship with Himself through Jesus Christ. The speaker is Paul, the apostle.

Explained for Children

Imagine you had a big fight with your best friend and stopped talking to each other for a long time. You felt angry and didn't care about being friends anymore. But one day, your friend forgave you and became your friend again. That's like what God did for us in this verse.

Historical Background

The letter was written by the apostle Paul around AD 60-70 to Christians living in Colossae. At that time, many people combined Greek philosophy with their beliefs and practiced rituals to please spirits. The audience included both Jews and Gentiles who needed to be reminded of true faith.

Living It Out Today

Think about a situation where you deeply hurt someone's feelings or made mistakes that caused a rift in your relationship. Just like the verse says, God can bring reconciliation even when it seems impossible. This can inspire us to seek forgiveness and reconcile with others.

Topics

• forgiveness
• reconciliation
• salvation
• sin
• repentance
• enmity

Related Verses

• Ephesians 2:16
• Romans 5:10
• Isaiah 43:25
• Luke 19:9
• Jeremiah 31:33

Frequently Asked Questions

How does this verse relate to the concept of sin?

This verse shows that our sins separate us from God. The language used highlights that we were once alienated and enemies because of our wicked works, but now we are reconciled through Christ.

What does it mean to be 'reconciled' with God?

Being reconciled means restoring a relationship that was broken. In this context, it refers to the restoration of a loving relationship between God and humanity through Jesus Christ.

Can you explain what Paul meant by 'wicked works' in Colossians 1:21?

'Wicked works' refer to actions that go against God's will. It encompasses all the things we do or think that separate us from God and bring spiritual harm.

What role does faith play in understanding this verse?

Faith helps believers understand that reconciliation with God is a gift of grace through Jesus Christ, not something they earn. It's about trusting that God has made the way for us to be reconciled.