Colossians 3:17
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Context
This verse summarizes the practical section of chapter 3, bringing all conduct -- not just worship -- under the lordship of Christ and framing it with thanksgiving to God through Him.
What Does Colossians 3:17 Mean?
Paul's instruction is sweeping: let everything you say and do be done as a representative of the Lord Jesus, with gratitude to God offered through Him. The word "whatsoever" leaves nothing out. It is not only the explicitly religious acts but the whole of life -- "word or deed," speech and action alike -- that is to be brought under this single principle. There is no division here between sacred and secular; the ordinary tasks of work, home, and conversation are all included.
To do something "in the name of the Lord Jesus" means to act as one who belongs to Him and represents Him -- under His authority, in keeping with His character, and for His honor. It is a searching test: could this word or this deed be done as His representative? That single question reshapes how a believer speaks, works, and treats others. Paul attaches gratitude once more: "giving thanks to God and the Father by him." A life lived in Christ's name is also a life of continual thanksgiving offered through Christ. This verse gathers up everything in the chapter and sets it under one banner. The whole of life, down to its smallest words and deeds, becomes an act of devotion when it is done in the name of the Lord Jesus and crowned with thanks.
In the Original Language
The Greek "pan" (all/whatsoever) is comprehensive, covering everything. "En onomati" (in the name) means under the authority and representation of the one named. "Eucharistountes" (giving thanks) is the present-tense language of continual gratitude.
Cross References
“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
- 1 Corinthians 10:31
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;”
- Colossians 3:23
“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
- 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Application
Bring every word and action of your ordinary day under one simple test -- can it be done as a representative of the Lord Jesus? -- and offer it with thanks to God through Him.