"And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him"
(Colossians 3:17 NKJV)

whatever we do or say must be by the authority of Jesus

In our permissive society, most people would ridicule this passage. Libertines would relegate it to a primitive time and an authoritarian mentality. Denominations give it lip service, at best. Religious leaders reject the plain admonitions of this passage, relying instead on their modern enlightenment — they simply despise authoritative pronouncements (though they do the same when they quote human authors to overturn Scriptural decrees).

Those who truly follow Christ, however, recognize the writing of the apostles as the message of Christ Himself. Guided by the Holy Spirit, the apostles took the words of Christ and gave them to His people (carefully read John 16:13-15).

Whatever is a comprehensive word: the synonym all says it all: everything we do must harmonize with the inspired word of God.

If we say it or do it, it must be in the name of the Lord Jesus. “In the name of” the Lord means by His authority. He is Lord; He speaks. Do we dare ignore Him or reject His orders? [This verse closely parallels 1 Peter 4:11— “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God…” Those who choose to go beyond His teaching do not have God (2 John 1:9). His word will judge us in the last day (John 12:48).

We should give thanks for the written Word that so clearly explains God’s plan for us. Obey it, follow it, and be saved.

– Rick Duggin