What does Colossians 3:25 mean?

Paul concludes his words to bondservants with a promise regarding God's future justice toward those who are prejudiced. This serves more than one purpose. First, it comforts those bondservants who suffer under unfair, harsh, or abusive masters. Paul reminds them that a servant's obligation to obey does not mean their masters are justified, by God, for being evil. On the contrary, God sees no moral difference between the slave and the master.

Secondly, believers are not to show favoritism, partiality, or discrimination (James 2:1–7). God is not unfair, so we ought not be unfair. Yet when discrimination does happen, God sees it and has a much better way of dealing with it than human revenge (Romans 12:19). This is a crucial verse to remember in any discussion of slavery in the Bible. Regardless of what society may tell a person about their power over others, God shows no favoritism: those who do evil cannot point to society or culture as an excuse for what they have done.

Partiality or favoritism was a frequently mentioned sin in the Old Testament. It is often associated with corruption (Deuteronomy 16:19; 2 Chronicles 19:7; Proverbs 24:23; 28:21). It is sinful to show favoritism or unfairness in our obedience to God (Malachi 2:9). Jesus was known for not showing partiality (Luke 20:21), something Peter and Paul would come to understand regarding God's love for the Gentiles (Acts 10:34; Romans 2:11; Galatians 2:6; Ephesians 6:9; 1 Timothy 5:21).

Verse 1 of chapter 4 will compete these thoughts, warning masters to treat their servants fairly. Just as the bondservants have a master, there is a greater Master in heaven, who will judge all men based on their actions.