Colossians 3 provides practical guidance for living out the new life that believers have in Christ. Paul’s emphasis is on shifting focus from earthly concerns to heavenly realities, while also putting off sinful habits and embracing Christ-like virtues. This chapter gives a clear call to live a transformed life that reflects the character of Christ.
Setting Your Mind on Things Above (Colossians 3:1-4)
Paul begins with a powerful exhortation: “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Col. 3:1-2). Believers are called to adopt a heavenly perspective, one that prioritizes the eternal over the temporary.
This mindset shift requires intentional effort. It means focusing on Christ, who is the ultimate source of life and purpose. Paul reminds us that our lives are now hidden with Christ in God (Col. 3:3), and when Christ appears, we will share in His glory (Col. 3:4). This assurance of future glory motivates us to live differently in the present.
Putting to Death the Old Self (Colossians 3:5-10)
Paul continues by urging believers to “put to death” the sinful behaviors that characterized their former lives: “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry” (Col. 3:5). These sins represent the old self, which no longer has power over believers who are in Christ.
Paul stresses that these behaviors belong to the old nature, which has been crucified with Christ. He calls believers to put off their old selves and “put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (Col. 3:9-10). This transformation is an ongoing process, as believers grow in their understanding of God’s truth and reflect His image more fully.
Clothing Yourself with Christ-like Virtues (Colossians 3:12-14)
In contrast to the old self, Paul lists the virtues that should characterize the new life in Christ: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Col. 3:12). These qualities reflect the heart of Christ and should be evident in the lives of His followers.
Paul emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and love: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity” (Col. 3:13-14). Love is the defining characteristic of the new life, holding all other virtues together.
Letting Christ’s Peace Rule (Colossians 3:15-17)
Finally, Paul urges believers to “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Col. 3:15). Christ’s peace should govern our actions, guiding us in relationships and decisions. Paul also encourages thankfulness and letting the word of Christ dwell richly among believers through teaching, singing, and worship (Col. 3:16).
The chapter closes with a reminder that everything we do should be done in the name of Christ: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Col. 3:17). This verse is a call to live every aspect of life for Christ’s glory.
Application
Reflection Questions
Setting Your Mind on Things Above (Colossians 3:1-4)
Paul begins with a powerful exhortation: “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Col. 3:1-2). Believers are called to adopt a heavenly perspective, one that prioritizes the eternal over the temporary.
This mindset shift requires intentional effort. It means focusing on Christ, who is the ultimate source of life and purpose. Paul reminds us that our lives are now hidden with Christ in God (Col. 3:3), and when Christ appears, we will share in His glory (Col. 3:4). This assurance of future glory motivates us to live differently in the present.
Putting to Death the Old Self (Colossians 3:5-10)
Paul continues by urging believers to “put to death” the sinful behaviors that characterized their former lives: “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry” (Col. 3:5). These sins represent the old self, which no longer has power over believers who are in Christ.
Paul stresses that these behaviors belong to the old nature, which has been crucified with Christ. He calls believers to put off their old selves and “put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (Col. 3:9-10). This transformation is an ongoing process, as believers grow in their understanding of God’s truth and reflect His image more fully.
Clothing Yourself with Christ-like Virtues (Colossians 3:12-14)
In contrast to the old self, Paul lists the virtues that should characterize the new life in Christ: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Col. 3:12). These qualities reflect the heart of Christ and should be evident in the lives of His followers.
Paul emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and love: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity” (Col. 3:13-14). Love is the defining characteristic of the new life, holding all other virtues together.
Letting Christ’s Peace Rule (Colossians 3:15-17)
Finally, Paul urges believers to “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts” (Col. 3:15). Christ’s peace should govern our actions, guiding us in relationships and decisions. Paul also encourages thankfulness and letting the word of Christ dwell richly among believers through teaching, singing, and worship (Col. 3:16).
The chapter closes with a reminder that everything we do should be done in the name of Christ: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Col. 3:17). This verse is a call to live every aspect of life for Christ’s glory.
Application
- Focus on the Eternal
Shift your mindset from earthly concerns to heavenly priorities. Practically, this could mean spending more time in prayer or Scripture, seeking God’s guidance for your decisions. - Put Off Sinful Habits
Identify areas of your life where you struggle with the sins listed in Colossians 3:5-9, and take active steps to put them to death. This might involve accountability, confession, or lifestyle changes. - Clothe Yourself with Christ’s Character
Embrace virtues like compassion, kindness, and patience in your daily interactions. Look for opportunities to show forgiveness and love to those around you.
Reflection Questions
- What practical steps can you take to set your mind on things above in your daily life?
- What old habits or sins do you need to “put to death” in your life?
- How can you cultivate virtues like kindness and humility in your relationships with others?
Posted in In Christ