Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Colossians 1:21

"And you, being in time past alienated and enemies in your mind in your evil works," — Colossians 1:21 (ASV)

Verse 20 has presented the general aspect of the reconciling work of Christ; vv.21–23 show how this applies personally and specifically to the Colossians. Prior to their conversion to Christianity they had been “alienated” or estranged from God and were “enemies” (GK 2398) in their minds. The latter word affirms the Colossians’ hostility to God. This hostility, Paul explains, affected their “minds” (i.e., their thoughts and disposition) and was outwardly expressed in their wicked deeds.