In this last section (3:18-4:18, today we only look at 3:18-25), Paul turned to practical interpersonal relations that should flow from a believer’s position in Christ. First, he exhorted each member in human families to perfect (mature in) their private life (wives, husbands, children, fathers, slaves, masters; 3:18–4:1). He then reminded believers to perfect their prayer lives (4:2–4) and their public lives (4:5–6). Then, he shared his concern for perfecting the personal lives of all the Colossian believers (4:7–18).

In accordance with the theme of Colossians, which is maturity in Christ (1:28), Paul exhorted believers to become mature in their private home relationships. Based on the kind of Christian life to which believers are called, Paul gives some practical guidance. General applications like “be good” or “love everybody” are difficult to put into practice, so Paul seeks to apply moral truths to the daily lives of the Colossians (cf. Eph 5:21-6:9). The Colossian home usually consisted of father, mother, children, and servants. Paul gives instructions to each group.