Colossians 3:6 – “Because of these, the wrath of God is coming.”

Extended Explanation

This verse follows Paul’s command in Colossians 3:5, where he tells believers to “put to death” sinful behaviors such as sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed. Here, Paul gives a strong warning: God’s wrath is coming because of these sins.

“Wrath” in the Bible refers to God’s righteous judgment against sin. It is not like human anger, which is often emotional and unpredictable. Instead, God’s wrath is His holy and just response to evil. Sin is not just a personal struggle-it is an offense against a holy God, and it will be judged.

Paul is reminding the Colossians that sin is serious. It is not something to excuse, ignore, or downplay. Because of sin, God’s judgment is coming upon those who live apart from Him. This verse is meant to be a wake-up call for believers-to take sin seriously and live in obedience to God.

Historical Context

The city of Colossae, like much of the Roman world, was full of idol worship, sexual immorality, greed, and other sinful practices. Many false religions promoted sinful behavior as part of their rituals. People worshiped gods of pleasure, wealth, and power, and morality was often ignored.

In this culture, the idea of God’s wrath would have been a strong contrast to what many people believed. The Romans and Greeks had gods who were flawed, selfish, and often unconcerned with human behavior. But the God of the Bible is different-He is holy, just, and will bring judgment against sin.

For the Colossian believers, this was an important reminder. Even though they were saved by grace, they were still living in a world filled with temptation. Paul wanted them to understand that sin is not a small issue-it has real consequences.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several important truths about God and sin:

1. God is holy and just – He cannot ignore sin or treat it lightly (Psalm 5:4).
2. Sin has consequences – God’s judgment is not an empty threat; it is a reality (Romans 6:23).
3. God’s wrath is coming – Judgment is not just a thing of the past; it is something still to come in the future (Revelation 20:11-15).
4. God’s grace is the only escape – While God’s wrath is real, He has also provided a way of salvation through Jesus (Romans 5:9).

Many people today try to ignore the idea of God’s wrath, focusing only on His love. But the Bible teaches that God’s love and justice go together. If He did not punish sin, He would not be truly just.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording in this verse is brief but powerful. “Because of these” refers back to the list of sins in the previous verse (Colossians 3:5), making it clear that sin leads to judgment.

The phrase “the wrath of God is coming” is in the present tense, emphasizing that God’s judgment is not just something from the past (like in the flood of Noah’s time) but is an ongoing reality. This includes both present consequences of sin and the final judgment that will come at the end of time.

Paul’s wording is meant to create urgency. He does not say “might come” or “could come.” He says it is coming. This should motivate believers to take their faith seriously and live in obedience to God.

Biblical Cross-References

• Romans 1:18 – “The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness.”
• Ephesians 5:6 – “Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient.”
• John 3:36 – “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.”
• Revelation 20:11-15 – The final judgment, where those who reject God will face eternal separation from Him.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Many people today downplay sin or act as if it has no real consequences. But this verse is a sobering reminder that God takes sin seriously.

For believers, this should lead to holy living. If we have been saved from God’s judgment through Jesus, why would we continue in the very sins that bring His wrath? Paul is urging Christians to live differently from the world-to reject sin and pursue holiness.

This verse is also a warning to those who do not know Christ. God’s judgment is real, and ignoring it does not make it go away. The only escape from His wrath is through faith in Jesus, who took the punishment for sin on the cross.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

At first glance, God’s wrath may not seem like an expression of His love. But in reality, His wrath proves His love.

A loving God cannot ignore evil. Just as a good judge must punish crime, God must punish sin. If He did not, He would not be truly good.

At the same time, God’s love provides a way of salvation. Instead of letting us face His wrath, He sent Jesus to take the punishment for our sins. God’s justice and love meet at the cross.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

The reality of God’s wrath makes the work of Jesus even more incredible:

1. Jesus took God’s wrath on the cross – Instead of letting us face judgment, Jesus bore it in our place (Isaiah 53:5).
2. Through Jesus, we are saved from wrath – Romans 5:9 says, “Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!”
3. Jesus will return as Judge – While He came first as Savior, Jesus will one day return to bring justice to the world (Acts 17:31).

This verse reminds us why the gospel is so important. Without Christ, people are under God’s judgment. But because of Him, we have forgiveness, freedom, and the promise of eternal life.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Do you take sin as seriously as God does? Why or why not?
2. How does understanding God’s wrath deepen your appreciation for Jesus’ sacrifice?
3. In what ways does this verse challenge the way you live your daily life?
4. How can you lovingly warn others about God’s judgment while also pointing them to His grace?
5. How does this verse encourage you to share the gospel with those who do not yet know Christ?

This verse is a powerful reminder that sin is not something to be ignored or taken lightly. But it is also a reminder that God, in His love, provided a way for us to be saved from His wrath. Through Jesus, we are forgiven, made new, and given the promise of eternal life. May we live in a way that reflects the holiness of the God who has rescued us.