Life in Christ (Colossians 3:1-4)

Setting Hearts on Things Above

Paul begins by urging believers to seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. This instruction emphasizes a mindset focused on divine, eternal values rather than earthly concerns. The followers of Christ are called to set their minds on things above, not on earthly things, reflecting a profound spiritual orientation that defines Christian identity and conduct (Colossians 3:1-2).

Hidden Life with Christ

Paul reminds believers that they have died with Christ, and their life is now hidden with Christ in God. This hidden life promises that when Christ, who is their life, appears, they too will appear with Him in glory. This future hope profoundly impacts how believers live in the present (Colossians 3:3-4).

Putting Off the Old Self (Colossians 3:5-11)

Mortifying Sin

Paul commands the believers to put to death whatever belongs to their earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry. These are the things that invoke God’s wrath on the disobedient. He reminds them of their past ways when they walked in these sins before knowing Christ (Colossians 3:5-7).

Renewal in Knowledge

As believers have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, they are being renewed in knowledge in the image of their Creator. This renewal erases social and cultural distinctions—like Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, and free—making Christ all, and in all (Colossians 3:9-11).

Christian Virtues and Community Life (Colossians 3:12-17)

Embracing New Virtues

Paul instructs believers to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. He emphasizes forgiveness, just as the Lord forgave them, and above all these virtues to put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity (Colossians 3:12-14).

Letting Peace Rule

The peace of Christ is to rule in their hearts, to which they were called in one body. Paul encourages thankfulness and admonishes the community to let the word of Christ dwell in them richly as they teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing to God with gratitude in their hearts (Colossians 3:15-16).

Doing All in Jesus’ Name

Paul concludes this section by encouraging every action or word to be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. This directive sets the standard for Christian behavior that reflects the character and authority of Christ (Colossians 3:17).

Household Codes (Colossians 3:18-4:1)

Instructions for Families

Paul provides specific instructions for family members: wives are to submit to their husbands as is fitting in the Lord, husbands are to love their wives and not be harsh with them, children are to obey their parents as this pleases the Lord, and fathers are not to embitter their children, lest they become discouraged (Colossians 3:18-21).

Directives for Slaves and Masters

He also addresses slaves to obey their earthly masters in everything, not just to please them when they are watching, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Masters are reminded to provide their slaves with what is right and fair, knowing that they also have a Master in heaven (Colossians 3:22-4:1).

Theological Significance

Connection to Jesus Christ

Colossians 3 deeply connects to Jesus Christ by centering Christian life and morality in Him. Christ is the reference point for the transformation from the old self to the new self, guiding believers in how they should live, relate, and treat one another within the Christian community.

God’s Love for the World

This chapter illustrates God’s love by demonstrating how it transforms relationships and personal conduct. The renewal process not only reflects a change in individual behavior but also fosters a community built on love, peace, and mutual respect, embodying the kingdom of God on earth.

Contemporary Relevance

Colossians 3 remains highly relevant as it addresses practical aspects of Christian living and interpersonal relationships. It challenges believers today to evaluate their lives against the standards set by Christ, encouraging a lifestyle that transcends cultural norms and reflects the transformative power of the Gospel.

Conclusion

Colossians 3 provides a comprehensive guide for living out one’s faith in everyday actions and relationships. It blends theological depth with practical advice, showing how the principles rooted in Christ’s lordship should distinctly shape the believer’s life, promoting a community characterized by love, harmony, and mutual edification.