Colossians 3:5-6 (KJV) states, "Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience."

This passage from the Book of Colossians exhorts believers to live a life that is set apart from the darkness and sin of the world. The terminology used in this verse is quite strong, emphasizing the seriousness of the topic at hand. The word "mortify" means to put to death or to subdue, while "members" refers to the various parts of the body. Thus, this verse is instructing believers to put to death the sinful desires and actions of their physical bodies that are rooted in the fallen nature of humanity.

The passage then lists a number of specific sins that believers are called to mortify: fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry. These sins can be categorized into two groups: sexual immorality and greed. Fornication refers to any sexual activity outside of marriage, while uncleanness encompasses impurity and moral filth. Inordinate affection refers to unnatural or excessive affection, and evil concupiscence refers to intense and unrestrained lust. Finally, covetousness, which is equated with idolatry, refers to an insatiable desire for possessions and wealth.

The passage then warns that the wrath of God comes upon the "children of disobedience" because of these very sins. This phrase refers to those who continue to walk in disobedience to God and His commandments, choosing to live in sin rather than in obedience to His will. In contrast, believers are called to live according to the Spirit, and as such, they must put to death these sinful desires and actions.

The themes of this passage are clear: it emphasizes the importance of holy living and the necessity of putting to death sinful desires. It also underscores the severity of sin in the eyes of God and the impending judgment that awaits those who continue to walk in disobedience.

The context of the Book of Colossians is significant in understanding the meaning of this passage. The letter was written by the apostle Paul to the church in Colossae, a city in Asia Minor. Paul had heard of the faith of the Colossian believers and wanted to encourage them in their walk with Christ. However, he also wanted to address the various heresies and false teachings that were creeping into the church.

In Colossians 2:8, Paul warns the believers to beware of philosophy and empty deceit, which were promoting traditions of men and the basic principles of the world rather than according to Christ. This sets the stage for the exhortation in chapter 3 to put off the old self and to put on the new self in Christ (Colossians 3:9-10). The specific sins listed in verses 5 and 6 were likely issues that the Colossian believers were struggling with due to the influence of the surrounding culture.

The symbolism in this passage lies in the contrast between the old self and the new self. The old self is characterized by sinful desires and actions, while the new self is characterized by righteousness and holiness. It also underscores the battle that believers face in overcoming the desires of the flesh and living according to the Spirit.

In conclusion, Colossians 3:5-6 is a powerful exhortation to believers to put to death the sinful desires and actions of the flesh, and to live in obedience to God. It is a stark reminder of the severity of sin and the impending judgment that awaits those who refuse to turn from their disobedience. The context of the letter to the Colossians and the symbolism of the old self versus the new self add depth and meaning to this passage, highlighting the importance of holy living and the ongoing struggle against sin.