What does "complaint" mean in Colossians 3:13?
"Bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if someone happens to have a complaint against anyone else. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also forgive others."
Colossians 3:1 - 25
ASV - 1 If then ye were raised together with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated on the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on the things that are above, not on the things that are upon the earth.
Anonymous
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
Philip Davies
Supporter
The word "complaint" is explained in the context. (It's always better to define things from their context, then you know you haven't gone wrong) In this passage "complaint" means anything that needs forgiveness. To have a complaint against another person does not mean you dislike what they did, or you think they need to improve in some way or even that you find fault with their manners or behaviour in some way. Complaint means they have done something which has hurt you or harmed you in some way and needs to be forgiven. That is the context the Paul sets, the same as when we need to be forgiven by Jesus. And forgiveness should be readily given, because we all need it don't we?
Jack Gutknecht
Supporter
The exact word "complaint" only occurs once in the New Testament, technically: Concordance (1 entry).
Colossians 3:13
Bear with one another and forgive each other, should anyone have a complaint { momphēn | acc sg fem } against another. As the Lord has graciously forgiven you, so also you must forgive.
And it is right here in Colossians 3: "Complaints arise whenever people live in close quarters; Scripture calls for proactive forgiveness instead of passive resentment." bibehub
I might add that Scripture calls for proactive forgiveness instead of passive resentment or even contempt.
It literally comes from a Greek word meaning "blame."
[1. blame
2. (by implication), a fault]
In Strong's Exhaustive Concordance
quarrel, blame, fault
From memphomai; blame, i.e. (by implication), a fault -- quarrel.
Jesus said in the AMPC (Amplified Bible, Classic Edition),
"And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go), in order that your Father Who is in heaven may also forgive you your [own] failings and shortcomings and let them drop." Mark 11:25
In the GW (God's Word Translation) of Colossians 3:13, Paul wrote:
"Put up with each other, and forgive each other if anyone has a complaint. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible