What is the context?
This verse is part of the description of being filled with the Spirit in 5:18–21. Paul names singing alongside thanksgiving to the Father and submission to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Believers are to speak to one another through psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. They also sing and make music in their hearts to the Lord. Both directions belong to the verse: words shared with fellow believers and heartfelt praise to Him.
The parallel instruction in Colossians 3:16 connects teaching and admonishing one another with singing in gratitude to God. It helps explain how song can serve the life of the community.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christians commonly understand this verse as joining heartfelt praise to the Lord with song that serves fellow believers. Wesley’s note on verse 19 includes the voice as well as the heart in singing to the Lord. Colossians 3:16 supplies the explicit parallel of teaching and admonishing one another.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Acts 2:42–47 places praise within the shared life formed after the gift of the Spirit: learning, prayer, fellowship and care for those in need. Praise belongs within the life of a people gathered around Christ.
This is a supported parallel to the song described here. The Spirit’s work gives the community reasons to thank God and ways to strengthen one another as they live together.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.