◄ Colossians 3 ►
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Put On the New Self (Ephesians 4:17–32) 1Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4When Christ, who is youra life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. 5Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry. 6Because of these, the wrath of God is coming on the sons of disobedience.b 7When you lived among them, you also used to walk in these ways. 8But now you must put aside all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9Do not lie to one another, since you have taken off the old self with its practices, 10and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, or free, but Christ is all and is in all. 12Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity. 15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Christian Households (Ephesians 6:1–4) 18Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. 20Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord. 21Fathers, do not provoke your children, so they will not become discouraged. Serving with Honor (Ephesians 6:5–9; 1 Timothy 6:1–2) 22Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything, not only to please them while they are watching, but with sincerity of heart and fear of the Lord. 23Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, as for the Lord and not for men, 24because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25Whoever does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism. Footnotes: 4 a NE, WH, BYZ, and TR our 6 b NE, WH, and Tischendorf do not include on the sons of disobedience. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Colossians 3 Summary Put On the New Self Verses 1–4 – Seeking Things Above Paul reminds believers that, having been raised with Christ, they are to “set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God” (3:1). Their true life is hidden with Christ now, and it will be openly revealed when He returns in glory. Verses 5–11 – Putting Off the Old Self Because their identity is now in Christ, Christians must “put to death” every earthly desire—sexual sin, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed—which is idolatry. They are to lay aside anger, rage, malice, slander, filthy language, and lies. Old labels—Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free—no longer define them; “Christ is all and in all” (3:11). Verses 12–17 – Putting On the New Self As God’s chosen, holy, and beloved people, they are to “put on” compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, forgiving as the Lord forgave. Above everything stands love, which unites perfectly. The peace of Christ is to rule their hearts, and gratitude should overflow in teaching, singing “psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,” and doing everything “in the name of the Lord Jesus” (3:17). Verses 18–19 – Wives and Husbands Wives are called to submit to their husbands in a manner fitting in the Lord; husbands must love their wives and refuse to be harsh. Verses 20–21 – Children and Fathers Children please the Lord by obeying parents in everything, while fathers must avoid provoking their children, so they do not lose heart. Verses 22–25 – Bondservants and Masters Servants are to obey earthly masters “not only while being watched,” but with sincerity, serving the Lord Christ. The Lord will reward every good deed and repay all wrongdoing. Colossians 3 is a compelling chapter in the Bible, written by Paul to the church in Colossae. It provides robust guidance on Christian living, offering a spiritual roadmap for believers to renew themselves, adopt Christ-like characteristics, and maintain a harmony in household relationships. These teachings underscore the transformation that faith in Christ can bring to personal and communal life. Author and Setting • Colossians was written by the apostle Paul during his first Roman imprisonment (around AD 60–62). • Colossae lay in the Lycus Valley of Asia Minor (modern Turkey), a small but strategically located city on a trade route. • Epaphras had evangelized the area (1:7). Paul writes to stabilize the church against false teaching—likely a blend of mysticism, legalism, and asceticism (2:8–23). Colossians 3 responds with practical instructions built on the supremacy of Christ. Living with a Heavenly Mindset (3:1–4) • Union with Christ: “For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God” (3:3). The believer’s past (died), present (hidden), and future (revealed) are wrapped up in Jesus. • Cross references: Ephesians 2:6; Philippians 3:20–21; John 14:3. • Everyday impact: A raised mind reshapes priorities—work, family, money, ambitions—because eternal things now outweigh temporary ones (2 Corinthians 4:18). Killing Sinful Desires (3:5–11) • The call is active and decisive: “Put to death.” • Two sin lists: – Sexual sins (v. 5): immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, greed. – Social sins (vv. 8–9): anger, rage, malice, slander, filthy talk, lying. • Motivation: “Because of these, the wrath of God is coming” (3:6). Grace never cancels God’s moral standards (Romans 6:1–2). • Old versus new wardrobe metaphor connects with local culture—Colossae housed textile workers known for dyeing wool. • Parallels: Romans 6:11–13; 1 Peter 2:11; Galatians 5:19–21 (works of the flesh). The Wardrobe of Christlike Virtue (3:12–17) • Identity first: chosen, holy, beloved—echoes Deuteronomy 7:6–8 applied to the church. • Virtues listed in pairs that warm relationships: – Compassion & kindness (outward warmth) – Humility & gentleness (self-lowering kindness) – Patience (long-suffering with others’ faults) • Forgiveness standard: “as the Lord forgave you” (cf. Matthew 18:21–35). • Love (“agapē”) is the belt that “binds them all together in perfect unity.” • Peace of Christ rules (literally “umpires”) the heart—guides decision-making. • Word of Christ dwells richly when believers: – Teach each other Scripture – Correct each other gently – Sing truth in psalms (OT songs), hymns (Christ-exalting compositions), and spiritual songs (Spirit-prompted expressions). • Overflow of thankfulness marks three consecutive verses (15–17). The Christian Household Code (3:18–25) • Paul applies gospel order to the Roman household, the basic social unit. • Wives/husbands: Submission here is voluntary alignment, never coerced; husbands mirror Christ’s self-giving love (Ephesians 5:25). • Children/fathers: Obedience pleases God; fathers lead without crushing spirit (Ephesians 6:4). • Servants/masters: Roughly one-third of the Empire were bondservants. Paul doesn’t endorse slavery but seeds its undoing by placing master and servant under the same Lord (4:1). • Key phrase: “It is the Lord Christ you are serving” (3:24). Work becomes worship. Christ as the Center • Christ is named or implied eight times in fifteen verses. • Every command flows from who He is and what He has done. • The chapter illustrates Colossians 2:6: “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in Him.” Archaeological and Historical Notes • Colossae suffered a devastating earthquake in the early 60s AD, possibly near the time this letter arrived—Paul’s stress on eternal security would have been particularly comforting. • Inscriptions in nearby Laodicea mention household slaves and family rules, matching Paul’s household code. • Textile trade explains Paul’s vivid “put off”/“put on” clothing imagery. Key Words and Their Meaning • “Put to death” (nekroō): treat as a corpse—no negotiation with sin. • “Put off/put on” (apotithēmi/endysō): changing garments—habitual action. • “Peace” (eirēnē): wholeness, not mere absence of conflict. • “Rule” (brabeuō): act as umpire—deciding what is “in” or “out.” Connections to the Old Testament • Genesis 1:26–27—Being “renewed… in the image of the One who created” (3:10) echoes humanity’s original calling. • Psalm 103:12—The Lord’s forgiveness is the pattern for our own. • Leviticus 19:18—“Love your neighbor” finds fuller expression in 3:14. Connections to the New Testament • Ephesians 4:22–32—Parallel “put off/put on” language. • Romans 12:1–2—Living sacrifice, renewed mind. • 1 Corinthians 13—Love that binds everything together. • 1 Peter 2:18–25—Servants motivated by Christ’s example. • Revelation 19:7–8—Saints clothed in righteous deeds, prefigured here. Practical Application Today • Identity drives behavior: remember who you are in Christ before tackling what you must do. • Defeating old habits requires ruthless action—cut off the supply lines to sin (unfiltered media, toxic relationships, secret attitudes). • Replace, don’t just erase: virtues grow where vices once lived. • Let peace, Scripture, and thankful worship shape family life—marriage, parenting, and work relationships flourish when Christ is honored as the unseen Boss. • In workplaces, believers serve the Lord first, offering excellence even when supervisors are absent or unfair. Christ is all, and in all, and Colossians 3 shows what life looks like when that truth moves from creed to daily clothing. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Ephesians 4:22-24 Encourages believers to put off your old self and put on the new self. Philippians 4:8 Calls us to think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. Galatians 5:22-23 Lists the fruit of the Spirit, which aligns with the virtues in Colossians 3. Teaching Points Seek the Things Above Colossians 3:1-2 encourages believers to 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. This calls us to prioritize spiritual over worldly pursuits. Put to Death Earthly Nature Verses 5-9 list behaviors and attitudes to abandon, such as immorality, impurity, and anger. This is a call to actively reject sin and live in holiness. Put on the New Self In verses 10-11, Paul speaks of the renewal in knowledge and the unity in Christ, emphasizing that Christ is all, and is in all. Clothe Yourselves with Virtues Verses 12-14 instruct believers to embody compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, and to put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity. Let the Peace of Christ Rule Verse 15 encourages us to let Christ's peace govern our hearts, fostering unity and thankfulness. The Word of Christ Verse 16 highlights the importance of letting the word of Christ dwell in you richly, through teaching, admonishing, and worship. Do Everything in the Name of the Lord Verse 17 calls us to do all things in Jesus' name, giving thanks to God the Father. Practical Applications Daily Devotion Begin each day by setting your mind on things above through prayer and Scripture reading. Self-Examination Regularly assess your life for any behaviors or attitudes that need to be put to death. Cultivate Virtues Intentionally practice compassion, kindness, and patience in your interactions with others. Seek Unity Strive for peace and unity within your family, church, and community, reflecting the peace of Christ. Worship and Gratitude Incorporate worship and thankfulness into your daily routine, acknowledging God's presence and blessings. People 1. Christ Christ is central to the chapter, as believers are instructed to set their hearts and minds on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God (Colossians 3:1). The Greek term "Χριστός" (Christos) emphasizes His role as the Anointed One, the Messiah. 2. Believers The chapter addresses believers, urging them to live a life that reflects their new identity in Christ. They are called to put to death earthly nature and to clothe themselves with virtues such as compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience (Colossians 3:12). 3. God God is referenced as the one who has chosen believers and loves them (Colossians 3:12). The Greek word "Θεός" (Theos) is used, highlighting His divine nature and authority. 4. Wives Wives are instructed to submit to their husbands, as is fitting in the Lord (Colossians 3:18). This reflects the Greek term "γυναῖκες" (gynaikes), meaning women or wives, emphasizing their role within the family structure. 5. Husbands Husbands are commanded to love their wives and not be harsh with them (Colossians 3:19). The Greek word "ἄνδρες" (andres) refers to men or husbands, highlighting their responsibility to love sacrificially. 6. Children Children are told to obey their parents in everything, as this pleases the Lord (Colossians 3:20). The Greek term "τέκνα" (tekna) is used, meaning children, emphasizing their role in the family. 7. Fathers Fathers are advised not to provoke their children, lest they become discouraged (Colossians 3:21). The Greek word "πατέρες" (pateres) refers to fathers, underscoring their influence on their children's well-being. 8. Slaves Slaves are instructed to obey their earthly masters in everything, working with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord (Colossians 3:22). The Greek term "δοῦλοι" (douloi) is used, meaning slaves or servants, reflecting the social context of the time. 9. Masters Although not directly mentioned in Colossians 3, the context implies that masters are part of the household structure, as instructions to slaves are given. The Greek term "κύριοι" (kurioi) would be relevant, meaning lords or masters, indicating their authority over slaves. Places 1. Heavenly Realms Paul urges believers to "set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God" (Colossians 3:1). This refers to a spiritual focus on heavenly matters rather than earthly concerns. The Greek word for "above" (ἄνω) emphasizes a higher, spiritual realm. 2. Earthly Nature In contrast to the heavenly focus, Paul instructs believers to "put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature" (Colossians 3:5). This "place" represents the sinful aspects of human nature that are to be abandoned. 3. Old Self Paul speaks of the "old self" as something to be discarded: "You have taken off the old self with its practices" (Colossians 3:9). This metaphorical place represents the former way of life before accepting Christ. 4. New Self Believers are encouraged to "put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator" (Colossians 3:10). This "place" signifies the transformation and renewal that occurs through faith in Christ. 5. Peace of Christ Paul advises, "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts" (Colossians 3:15). This "place" is a state of inner tranquility and harmony that comes from Christ's presence. 6. Word of Christ The apostle encourages believers to "Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you" (Colossians 3:16). This "place" is the internalization and meditation on Christ's teachings. Events 1. Seek the Things Above (Colossians 3:1-2) Believers are instructed to "set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God." The Greek word for "seek" (ζητέω, zēteō) implies a continuous, diligent pursuit. 2. Put to Death Earthly Nature (Colossians 3:5) Christians are called to "put to death" their earthly nature, including immorality and greed. The Greek term "νεκρόω" (nekroō) means to render something as dead or inactive. 3. Rid Yourselves of Anger and Malice (Colossians 3:8) Believers are urged to "rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language." The Greek word "ἀποτίθημι" (apotithēmi) suggests a deliberate action of laying aside or discarding. 4. Put on the New Self (Colossians 3:10) Christians are encouraged to "put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator." The Greek "ἀνακαινόω" (anakainoō) indicates a process of renewal or transformation. 5. Unity in Christ (Colossians 3:11) The passage emphasizes that "Christ is all, and is in all," highlighting the unity among believers regardless of ethnic or social distinctions. 6. Clothe Yourselves with Virtues (Colossians 3:12-14) Believers are instructed to "clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." The Greek "ἐνδύω" (endyo) means to put on or be enveloped in these virtues. 7. Let the Peace of Christ Rule (Colossians 3:15) Christians are called to "let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts." The Greek "βραβεύω" (brabeuō) suggests an umpire or decision-maker, indicating that Christ's peace should govern decisions. 8. Let the Word of Christ Dwell Richly (Colossians 3:16) The passage encourages believers to "let the word of Christ dwell in you richly," with the Greek "ἐνοικέω" (enoikeō) meaning to inhabit or take residence. 9. Do Everything in the Name of the Lord (Colossians 3:17) Christians are instructed to "do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." This emphasizes living a life that reflects Christ's authority and character. Lessons from Colossians 3 1. Set Your Minds on Things Above In Colossians 3:2, we are encouraged to "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." This is a call to focus on the eternal rather than the temporary. By prioritizing heavenly values, we align our daily actions with God's purpose, leading to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. This mindset shift can transform how we approach challenges, reminding us that our ultimate goal is to glorify God in all we do. 2. Put to Death Earthly Nature Colossians 3:5 instructs us to "Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature." This means actively rejecting behaviors and desires that pull us away from God. By doing so, we create space for spiritual growth and allow the Holy Spirit to work more effectively in our lives. It's about making conscious choices that reflect our commitment to living a life that honors God. 3. Clothe Yourself with Compassion Verse 12 of Colossians 3 tells us to "clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." These virtues are not just nice-to-haves; they are essential for building strong, loving relationships. By embodying these qualities, we reflect Christ's love to those around us, creating a ripple effect of positivity and grace in our communities. 4. Forgive as the Lord Forgave You Forgiveness is a powerful theme in Colossians 3:13, which says, "Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Holding onto grudges can weigh us down, but when we choose to forgive, we experience freedom and peace. Remembering how much we have been forgiven by God can inspire us to extend that same grace to others, fostering healing and reconciliation. 5. Let the Peace of Christ Rule in Your Hearts In verse 15, we are reminded to "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts." This peace is not just the absence of conflict but a deep, abiding sense of well-being that comes from trusting in God's sovereignty. By allowing Christ's peace to guide our decisions and interactions, we can navigate life's ups and downs with confidence and calm. 6. Be Thankful Colossians 3:15 also encourages us to "be thankful." Gratitude is a powerful tool for shifting our perspective and enhancing our well-being. By regularly counting our blessings and expressing thanks, we cultivate a positive outlook that can transform our daily experiences and deepen our relationship with God. 7. Let the Word of Christ Dwell Richly Verse 16 urges us to "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly." Immersing ourselves in Scripture equips us with wisdom and guidance for every situation. By making Bible study a regular part of our routine, we allow God's truth to shape our thoughts and actions, leading to a more Christ-centered life. 8. Teach and Admonish One Another Colossians 3:16 also highlights the importance of community: "Teach and admonish one another with all wisdom." We are called to support and encourage each other in our faith journeys. By sharing insights and holding each other accountable, we grow stronger together, building a community that reflects God's love and truth. 9. Do Everything in the Name of the Lord Jesus Verse 17 challenges us to "do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus." This means that every action, no matter how small, should be done with the intention of honoring God. By keeping this perspective, we infuse our daily tasks with purpose and meaning, transforming the mundane into acts of worship. 10. Love Binds Everything Together Finally, Colossians 3:14 reminds us that "love binds everything together in perfect unity." Love is the foundation of all the virtues mentioned in this chapter. It is the glue that holds our relationships and communities together. By prioritizing love in all we do, we reflect the heart of Christ and create a harmonious environment where everyone can thrive. Topics 1. Seek the Things Above (Colossians 3:1-2) Believers are encouraged to focus on heavenly things rather than earthly matters. The Greek word "ζητεῖτε" (zēteite) implies an active, continuous seeking of things above. 2. Put to Death Earthly Nature (Colossians 3:5-7) Christians are called to "put to death" sinful behaviors such as immorality and greed. The Greek term "νεκρώσατε" (nekrosate) suggests a decisive action to eliminate these traits. 3. Put Off the Old Self (Colossians 3:8-9) The passage instructs believers to rid themselves of anger, malice, and slander. The Greek "ἀποτίθεσθε" (apotithesthe) means to lay aside or cast off these behaviors. 4. Put On the New Self (Colossians 3:10-11) Christians are to embrace a renewed self, characterized by knowledge and unity in Christ. The Greek "ἐνδύσασθε" (endysasthe) indicates putting on new virtues like clothing. 5. Characteristics of the New Life (Colossians 3:12-14) Believers are urged to embody compassion, kindness, humility, and love. The Greek "ἀγάπη" (agapē) for love is highlighted as the bond of perfection. 6. Let the Peace of Christ Rule (Colossians 3:15) The peace of Christ should govern believers' hearts. The Greek "βραβευέτω" (brabeuetō) suggests an umpire or decision-maker role for peace. 7. Let the Word of Christ Dwell Richly (Colossians 3:16) The Word of Christ should inhabit believers abundantly, teaching and admonishing one another. The Greek "ἐνοικείτω" (enoikeitō) implies a deep, indwelling presence. 8. Do Everything in the Name of the Lord (Colossians 3:17) All actions and words should be done in Jesus' name, giving thanks to God. The Greek "πάντα" (panta) emphasizes the totality of actions. 9. Instructions for Christian Households (Colossians 3:18-21) Specific roles and behaviors are outlined for wives, husbands, children, and fathers, promoting harmony and respect within the family unit. 10. Instructions for Slaves and Masters (Colossians 3:22-25) Slaves are instructed to obey their earthly masters sincerely, as serving the Lord, while masters are reminded of their accountability to God. Themes 1. Heavenly Focus Colossians 3:1-2 encourages believers to "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." This theme emphasizes the importance of prioritizing spiritual and eternal matters over worldly concerns. The Greek word for "set" (ζητέω, zēteō) implies an active pursuit or seeking, indicating a deliberate focus on heavenly realities. 2. New Life in Christ Verses 3-4 highlight the believer's new identity: "For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory." This theme underscores the transformation and security found in Christ, with the Greek term "hidden" (κρύπτω, kryptō) suggesting protection and concealment in God. 3. Putting to Death Earthly Nature In verses 5-9, Paul instructs believers to "put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature." This includes a list of sins such as sexual immorality and greed. The Greek word for "put to death" (νεκρόω, nekroō) conveys a decisive action to eliminate sinful behaviors. 4. Renewal in the Image of the Creator Verse 10 speaks of putting on the new self, "which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator." This theme highlights the ongoing process of spiritual renewal and growth, with the Greek word for "renewed" (ἀνακαινόω, anakainoō) indicating a continuous transformation. 5. Unity in Christ Colossians 3:11 emphasizes unity among believers: "Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all." This theme stresses the breaking down of social and cultural barriers in the body of Christ. 6. Christian Virtues Verses 12-14 list virtues such as compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, urging believers to "put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." The Greek word for "put on" (ἐνδύω, endyō) suggests clothing oneself with these virtues, indicating an intentional adoption of Christ-like qualities. 7. Peace and Gratitude Verse 15 encourages letting "the peace of Christ rule in your hearts" and being thankful. The Greek word for "rule" (βραβεύω, brabeuō) implies acting as an umpire, suggesting that Christ's peace should govern decisions and relationships. 8. The Word of Christ In verse 16, believers are instructed to "let the word of Christ dwell in you richly." This theme emphasizes the importance of Scripture in teaching, admonishing, and worship, with the Greek word for "dwell" (ἐνοικέω, enoikeō) indicating a permanent residence. 9. Doing Everything in the Name of the Lord Verse 17 concludes with the exhortation to do everything "in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." This theme highlights the comprehensive nature of living for Christ, with the Greek phrase "in the name" (ἐν ὀνόματι, en onomati) signifying acting under Christ's authority and character. Prayer Points Renewal of Mind and Heart Pray for the Holy Spirit to renew your mind and heart, helping you focus on things above. Strength to Overcome Sin Ask for strength and courage to put to death any sinful habits or attitudes. Growth in Virtues Seek God's help in growing in compassion, kindness, humility, and love. Unity and Peace Pray for unity and peace in your relationships and within the body of Christ. Thankfulness Cultivate a heart of gratitude, thanking God for His presence and guidance in your life. Answering Tough Questions 1. How do we reconcile Colossians 3:1–4’s call to “set your hearts on things above” with modern scientific understanding that life and consciousness are purely physical? 2. Why does Colossians 3:11 claim “Christ is all, and is in all” when other passages seem to differentiate believers from nonbelievers? 3. How can Colossians 3:15’s emphasis on peace be squared with historical records showing divisions and conflicts within early Christian communities? 4. How do we address the cultural and ethical challenges of Colossians 3:18–19’s instructions on marital roles in light of modern views on gender equality? 5. Can Colossians 3:25’s warning that wrongdoers will be repaid be taken literally when so many injustices go unresolved in human history? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the concept of "dying to the old self" apply to your life today? 2. Reflect on the virtues listed in verses 12-14. Which of these do you struggle with the most? How can you practice these more intentionally? 3. How does Paul's guidance on focusing on "things above" influence your perspective on material possessions and earthly desires? 4. In verse 11, Paul emphasizes equality in Christ. How does this teaching affect your understanding of social or racial divisions? 5. How can you let the peace of Christ rule in your heart in situations of conflict or stress? 6. How can the command to "forgive as the Lord forgave you" be applied in a situation where you've been deeply hurt? 7. Reflect on the role of gratitude in your life. How can you "sing to God with gratitude in your hearts" in your daily routine? 8. In the context of verses 18-25, discuss how you can maintain a balanced, Christ-centered relationship within your family. 9. How do you interpret Paul's instruction to slaves in the context of modern work relationships? 10. How can you make your work a form of worship, as suggested in verse 23? 11. What does it mean for your life to be "hidden with Christ in God"? 12. What challenges do you face when trying to live according to the ideals outlined in this chapter? 13. How does the idea of Christ's return influence your daily actions and long-term goals? 14. How can Paul's teachings in Colossians 3 guide you in making ethical decisions? 15. How does the unity in love expressed in this chapter influence your understanding of community? 16. How can the instruction "whatever you do, do it in the name of the Lord Jesus" (v.17) be applied in your everyday tasks? 17. How does understanding that "there is no favoritism" with God (v.25) impact your view of justice and fairness? 18. Discuss the implications of the statement "Christ is all, and is in all" (v.11) for your understanding of the divine presence. 19. How might the advice about family relationships in this chapter apply differently in various cultural contexts? 20. How can the church today take Paul's teachings in this chapter and apply them to the societal issues we face? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions