Colossians 3:5 — Self-Enrichment as Idolatry

Deaden, then, the members that are on the earth: prostitution, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and self-enrichment, which is idolatry.

After Paul has exhorted us to be disposed to that which is above, he now names what belongs to “the members that are on the earth.” These are desires that draw a person toward self. Prostitution, uncleanness, passion, and evil desire each have their own emphasis, but what they have in common is that one’s own desire takes center stage.

This also applies to what is commonly translated as “greed.” The Greek word (> more-having) indicates not so much the desire for more as taking more than one is entitled to. It is benefiting oneself at another’s expense. Elsewhere (1 Cor. 6:10), it is therefore mentioned in the same breath as theft and robbery. Paul equates such self-enrichment with idolatry, just as he does in Ephesians 5:5. That may seem like a strong term, but for someone intent on enriching himself, everything must give way to personal gain. His god does not stand in a temple, but in the mirror.

Where we as believers seek that which is above, where Christ is – our Life – these “members that are on the earth” naturally die away. The two do not go together. Where the heavenly is sought, the earthly loses its grip.

Share: