Colossians 2:20
"Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit..." — Colossians 2:20 reveals truths about God's character and His purposes. This passage has been a source of comfort, guidance, and inspiration for believers across generations.
“Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules:”Colossians 2:20 (NIV)
Compare NIV, KJV, ESV, NLT, MSG, and NASB side by side →
Surrounding verses
Read Colossians 2:20 with the verses next to it, then open Colossians 2 in full.
When people use this verse
People often open Colossians 2:20 when they are looking for Scripture on humility.
Related topics
Get another verse
Same randomizer as the rest of the site — tap for another NIV verse from this book, a related topic, or the priority collection.
“The Word Became FleshIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
— John 1:1
What is this verse about?
Colossians 2:20 is found in the New Testament, in the book of Colossians. This verse comes from chapter 2, which can be read in full at the Colossians chapter 2 page. Understanding the surrounding passages helps illuminate the deeper meaning of this verse.
How people apply it
As you reflect on Colossians 2:20, consider how God's truth applies to your current circumstances. Scripture is living and active — it speaks into every season of life. Let this verse shape your thoughts, decisions, and relationships as you walk in faith.
Related verses
Curated from this site's topic lists — not a keyword scan of the verse text.
Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
1 Peter 5:6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.
Ephesians 4:2Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
James 1:9The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position.
Matthew 5:5Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Proverbs 3:34He mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble.
Romans 8:7the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so.
Zephaniah 2:3Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, you who do what he commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the Lord’s anger.
A short prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the truth revealed in Colossians 2:20. Open my heart to receive Your Word and transform my life. Help me apply this Scripture faithfully and share its hope with others. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Quick answers
What does Colossians 2:20 mean?
"Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit..." — Colossians 2:20 reveals truths about God's character and His purposes. This passage has been a source of comfort, guidance, and inspiration for believers across generations. The original biblical context enriches our understanding of how this verse applies today.
What is the context of Colossians 2:20?
Colossians 2:20 is found in the New Testament, in the book of Colossians. This verse comes from chapter 2, which can be read in full at the Colossians chapter 2 page. Understanding the surrounding passages helps illuminate the deeper meaning of this verse.
How does Colossians 2:20 read in other translations?
Colossians 2:20 is available in NIV, KJV, ESV, NLT, MSG, and NASB on this page. Open the compare view to read them side by side.