Colossians 4:5 - Meaning and Application

The apostle goes on to urge them to act wisely and properly toward everyone they met, especially the people outside the Christian church among whom they lived (Colossians 4:5). They were to walk in wisdom toward those who are without. That meant being careful in every interaction, so they would not be harmed by others or pick up their customs. Evil company can corrupt good morals, and they were also to avoid doing anything that would increase unbelievers’ prejudice against religion or give them a reason to dislike it.

At the same time, they were to do all the good they could to these people, using the best means and the right moments to recommend religion to them. Redeeming the time means either making full use of every chance to do them good and of every hour in proper duty, or living carefully and watchfully so they would not give others any reason to attack them or hate them (Ephesians 5:15, Ephesians 5:16). Walk carefully, redeeming the time, because the days are evil, meaning dangerous times or times of trouble and suffering.

Paul also applies this to speech, toward outsiders as well as fellow believers. “Let your speech always be gracious” (Colossians 4:6). All their conversation should fit Christians and match their calling, being wholesome, wise, and fitting for the moment. Even if every topic is not directly about grace, their words should always be spoken with grace. Their talk should have a Christian flavor, like salt seasoning food, so it is pleasant and does not spoil.

This also means knowing how to answer each person well. One reply fits one person, and another fits someone else (Proverbs 26:4, Proverbs 26:5). It takes much wisdom and grace to give the right answer to each person, especially when answering objections against the Christian faith. We must be ready to explain the reason for our hope, and do it with gentleness and respect, showing clearly why their objections are weak while causing the least harm to our own cause and to ourselves (1 Peter 3:15).