Colossians 4:1
“Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Masters are to treat their servants justly and fairly, knowing that they too have a Master in heaven.
What Does Colossians 4:1 Mean?
Paul completes the household instructions by turning to masters. Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal -- those with authority owe their servants justice and fairness, not merely the right to command.
The grounding is humbling: knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven. The master is himself under a Master, accountable to the Lord above for how he treats those below him. This single thought levels the household before God. Earthly authority is real but never absolute; everyone answers to Christ. For the Colossians who held power over others, this is a sober and gracious reminder to wield it with fairness, remembering their own accountability. The God who shows no favoritism watches how the strong treat the weak. To rule justly is to honor the heavenly Master who rules over all, masters and servants alike.