Colossians 3:1-17 is about setting our hearts and minds on things above, focusing on the virtues of compassion, kindness, humility, patience, forgiveness, and love, while letting go of earthly desires and renewing ourselves in the image of God.
1 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
4 When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
5 Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
6 On account of these the wrath of God is coming.
7 In these you too once walked, when you were living in them.
8 But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.
9 Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices.
10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.
11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.
12 Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,
13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Setting the Scene for Colossians 3:1-17
The scene in Colossians 3:1-17 is set in a bustling marketplace in the ancient city of Colossae. The apostle Paul is addressing a diverse group of early Christians who have gathered in a large open area surrounded by merchants selling their goods. The air is filled with the sounds of bargaining, the smell of spices, and the colorful sights of fabrics and pottery on display.
Among the crowd are men and women from different backgrounds, including Jews, Greeks, and Romans, who have come together to hear Paul’s teachings on living a life in accordance with the teachings of Christ. Some have traveled from neighboring towns to attend this gathering, while others are local residents who have been drawn to the message of hope and salvation.
As Paul speaks passionately about putting off the old self and putting on the new self in Christ, his words resonate with the listeners, challenging them to live in love, unity, and gratitude. The scene is a vivid reminder of the transformative power of the gospel and the call to live out the teachings of Jesus in every aspect of life.
What is Colossians 3:1-17 about?
Oh, what a beautiful passage to reflect upon! Colossians 3:1-17 is a powerful reminder for us as believers to continually strive towards living a transformed life in Christ. When we accept Jesus into our hearts, we are called to set our minds on things above, prioritizing heavenly values over earthly desires. This verse challenges us to constantly seek spiritual growth and renewal, letting go of our old sinful habits and embracing a new way of living that aligns with God’s will.
The passage also emphasizes the importance of putting on virtues such as compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and love. These qualities reflect the character of Christ and are at the core of our new identity in Him. We become living testimonies of God’s grace and love to those around us as we allow these virtues to guide our thoughts, words, and actions. We should take to heart the message of Colossians 3:1-17, striving each day to live as true followers of Christ, casting away our old selves and embracing the beauty of our new life in Him.
Understanding what Colossians 3:1-17 really means
In Colossians 3:1-17, we delve into a portion of Paul’s letter to the Colossians, where he delves into the essence of Christian living and the transformative power that comes from being united with Christ. This passage serves as a guide for believers, urging them to shift their focus from earthly concerns to heavenly matters, setting their hearts on things above. It’s a reminder that amidst the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we must not lose sight of our spiritual journey and eternal perspective. Just as Matthew 6:33 and Philippians 3:20 echo the sentiment of seeking God’s kingdom first, Colossians 3:1-4 calls us to prioritize our faith over fleeting worldly pursuits.
Moving on to verses 5-11, Paul urges believers to rid themselves of behaviors and attitudes that stem from their earthly nature. This call to moral and ethical transformation is crucial in a society where values can often be distorted or compromised. Ephesians 4:22-24 aligns with this message, emphasizing the shedding of the old self and embracing a new way of living in righteousness and holiness. Stories abound of individuals who have experienced profound change by turning away from destructive habits and embracing a life aligned with God’s will.
In verses 12-14, Paul paints a picture of the virtues that should adorn a Christian’s life – compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. These virtues, as highlighted in Galatians 5:22-23, are foundational for fostering healthy relationships and nurturing thriving communities. The anecdotal evidence of how these virtues have transformed relationships and communities serves as a testament to their enduring relevance and impact.
Lastly, in verses 15-17, Paul emphasizes the significance of peace, gratitude, and harmonious living among believers. The peace of Christ, as mentioned in Philippians 4:7, offers a sense of stability and hope that transcends worldly understanding. In a world rife with discord and unrest, the peace found in Christ can be a beacon of light amidst the darkness. Stories of individuals finding inner peace through their faith despite external turmoil serve as a powerful reminder of the peace that surpasses all understanding.
In conclusion, Colossians 3:1-17 encapsulates the essence of Christian living – a life transformed by the power of Christ, characterized by moral uprightness, virtuous living, and inner peace. As we reflect on these teachings, may we be inspired to embody compassion, kindness, and gratitude in our interactions, and may the peace of Christ reign in our hearts, guiding us in all aspects of our lives. Let us strive to live out these principles daily, seeking transformation and renewal through our union with Christ.
How can we let God’s peace rule in our hearts?
We can let God’s peace rule in our hearts by setting our minds on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. This means focusing on heavenly things and aligning our thoughts and desires with God’s will. By seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, we allow His peace to reign in our hearts, guiding us in all aspects of our lives.
Furthermore, we are encouraged to let the word of Christ dwell in us richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom. This involves immersing ourselves in God’s Word, allowing it to shape our thoughts and actions. His peace will guard our hearts and minds as we grow in understanding and obedience to the teachings of Christ, keeping us anchored in the truth and free from anxiety and fear. We reflect the nature of Christ to the world as we put on the new self created in the image of God, characterized by love, compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Living in harmony and unity with fellow believers, forgiving one another as the Lord has forgiven us, allows God’s peace to rule in our hearts and permeate our relationships. We experience the deep sense of peace that surpasses all understanding by abiding in Christ and walking in His ways, even in the midst of life’s challenges and uncertainties.
Application
Imagine navigating your daily grind at work or cherishing moments with your family, fueled by compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Picture every interaction enriched by these qualities. Let the wisdom and gratitude of Christ fill your heart and guide your actions, teaching and supporting those around you. Are you ready to transform your everyday life by embodying these values and making a real difference?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.