John Calvin on Colossians 3:17

17. And whatsoever ye do. We have already explained these things, and what goes before, in the Epistle to the Ephesians, where the same things are said almost word for word. As he had already begun to discourse in reference to different parts of the Christian life, and had simply touched upon a few precepts, it would have been too tedious a thing to follow out the rest one by one, he therefore concludes in a summary way, that life must be regulated in such a manner, that whatever we say or do may be wholly governed by the authority of Christ, and may have an eye to his glory as the mark. “Comme a son but principal;” — “As to its chief aim.” For we shall fitly comprehend under this term the two following things — that all our aims “Toutes nos œuures et entreprinses;” — “All our works and enterprises.” may set out with invocation of Christ, and may be subservient to his glory. From invocation follows the act of blessing God, which supplies us with matter of thanksgiving. It is also to be observed, that he teaches that we must give thanks to the Father through Christ, as we obtain through him every good thing that God confers upon us.

Colossians 3:18-25

18. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.

18. Mulieres, subditae estote propriis maritis, quemadmodum decet in Domino.

19. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.

19. Viri, diligite uxores, et ne amari sitis adversus illas.

20. Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.

20. Filii, obedite parentibus vestris per omnia: hoc enim placet Domino.

21. Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.

21. Patres, ne provocetis liberos vestros, ne deiiciantur animis.

22. Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:

22. Servi, obedite per omnia iis, qui secundum carnem sunt domini: non exhibitis ad oculum obsequiis, tanquam hominibus placere studentes, sed in simplicitate cordis, ut qui timeatis Deum.

23. And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

23. Et quicquid feceritis, ex animo facite, tanquam Domino, et non hominibus:

24. Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

24. Scientes quod a Domino recipietis mercedem hereditatis, nam Domino Christo servitis.

25. But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.

25. Qui autem iniuste egerit, mercedem reportabit suae iniquitatis: et non est personarum acceptio. (Deuteronomy 10:17.)