Colossians 4:1

“Masters, give unto your servants, etc.] This verse properly belongs to the preceding chapter, with which it should have been concluded. It is indeed strange, that those who made the division of chapters and verses should separate this from the former chapter, to which it so manifestly belongs, and begin a new one with it, when it has no connection with what follows; for the apostle having observed the duty of servants to their masters, proceeds to direct masters to the discharge of their duty to their servants, by giving them that which is just and equal: proper food and raiment, which is sufficient and fitting for them; the wages due unto them by law or contract; using them with gentleness…”

“EXHORTATIONS CONTINUED. TO PRAYER: WISDOM IN RELATION TO THE UNCONVERTED: AS TO THE BEARERS OF THE EPISTLE, TYCHICUS AND ONESIMUS: CLOSING SALUTATIONS. (Col. 4:1-18) give--Greek "render": literally, "afford." equal--that is, as the slaves owe their duties to you, so you equally owe to them your duties as masters. Compare "ye masters do the same things" (see on Eph 6:9). ALFORD translates, "fairness," "equity," which gives a large and liberal interpretation of justice in common matters (Plm 1:16). knowing-- (Col 3:24). ye also--as well as they.”

“Masters, give unto your servants ... - See the notes at Ephesians 6:9. That which is just and equal - What they ought to have; what is fairly their due. The apostle here, probably, refers to bondmen or slaves, and the propriety of this rule is apparent. Such persons were subject to their masters’ control; their time and services were at their disposal, and they could not enforce their just and equal claims by an appeal to the laws. They were, therefore, dependent on the equity and kindness of their masters. There can be no doubt that not a few who were converted to the Christian faith were held to involuntary servitude (see 1 Corinthians 7:0); and it is as clear that the apostles did not…”

“Just - According to your contract. Equitable - Even beyond the letter of your contract. Colossians 4:3”

“4:1 Masters: Christian slave owners had to recognize that they, too, were slaves bound to obey Jesus Christ, their Master in heaven who treats all people with dignity and grace.”

“give: Lev 19:13, Lev 25:39-43; Deu 15:12-15, Deu 24:14, Deu 24:15; Neh 5:5-13; Job 24:11, Job 24:12; Job 31:13-15; Isa 58:3, Isa 58:5-9; Jer 34:9-17; Mal 3:5; Jam 2:13, Jam 5:4 ye: Ecc 5:8; Mat 23:8, Mat 23:9, Mat 24:48-51; Luk 16:1-13, Luk 19:15; Eph 6:8, Eph 6:9-20; Rev 17:14, Rev 19:16 Colossians 4:2”