Imagine waking up every day with a clear purpose, driven by love and kindness. Colossians 3 nudges us in that direction, reminding us of our new life in Christ.
The Reading: Colossians 3
World English Bible1 If then you were raised together with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated on the right hand of God.
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2 Set your mind on the things that are above, not on the things that are on the earth.
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3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
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4 When Christ, our life, is revealed, then you will also be revealed with him in glory.
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5 Put to death therefore your members which are on the earth: sexual immorality, uncleanness, depraved passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry;
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6 for which things’ sake the wrath of God comes on the children of disobedience.
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7 You also once walked in those, when you lived in them;
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8 but now you also put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and shameful speaking out of your mouth.
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9 Don’t lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old man with his doings,
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10 and have put on the new man, who is being renewed in knowledge after the image of his Creator,
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11 where there can’t be Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, bondservant, freeman; but Christ is all, and in all.
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12 Put on therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, humility, and perseverance;
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13 bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, if any man has a complaint against any; even as Christ forgave you, so you also do.
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14 Above all these things, walk in love, which is the bond of perfection.
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15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.
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16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your heart to the Lord.
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17 Whatever you do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father, through him.
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18 Wives, be in subjection to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.
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19 Husbands, love your wives, and don’t be bitter against them.
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20 Children, obey your parents in all things, for this pleases the Lord.
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21 Fathers, don’t provoke your children, so that they won’t be discouraged.
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22 Servants, obey in all things those who are your masters according to the flesh, not just when they are looking, as men pleasers, but in singleness of heart, fearing God.
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23 And whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord, and not for men,
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24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.
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25 But he who does wrong will receive again for the wrong that he has done, and there is no partiality.
What This Chapter Is Really Saying
In Colossians 3, the apostle Paul challenges believers to set their minds on higher things - specifically, the values that reflect their new life with Christ. He emphasizes that if you identify with Christ, you should seek what truly matters, directing your focus away from earthly distractions.
A New Identity
Paul reminds us that our old ways have died; our true lives are hidden with Christ in God. This transformation is not just about behavior but involves adopting a whole new identity.
Letting Go of the Old
He lists behaviors to abandon: sexual immorality, anger, malice, and lying. These are seen as remnants of a life before Christ and have no place in a believer's life. Instead, we are encouraged to embrace virtues like compassion, kindness, humility, and patience.
The Power of Love
Walking in love is highlighted as the ultimate virtue, creating harmony among us. Paul urges us to let the peace of God rule in our hearts, where gratitude takes center stage.
Relationships and Responsibilities
Paul also gives practical advice for relationships. He speaks directly to wives, husbands, children, and servants, encouraging mutual respect and understanding. The essence of these instructions is to work heartily, knowing that our service is ultimately for Christ.
Why It Matters
Colossians 3 provides rich insights for our modern lives.
Embracing Change
The chapter emphasizes that our identity in Christ calls us to change. It invites us to examine our actions and thoughts, encouraging us to let go of negativity and embrace a life centered on love.
Building Community
Forgiveness and compassion are crucial for healthy relationships. By fostering these qualities, we create a community that reflects Christ's love, making our churches and homes places of grace and support.
Living With Purpose
Whatever we do, whether in word or deed, should bring honor to Christ. This idea of purposeful living resonates deeply; it means that every action can be an expression of faith. As you navigate your daily life, consider how your choices and interactions reflect your faith. To find a supportive community, you might want to find a church near you that encourages this kind of living.
Coming Up Next: Colossians 4
As we continue our journey into Colossians 4, Paul will delve into prayer and the significance of our words and actions. Don't miss the next part of our exploration as we uncover more about living a Christ-centered life!