◄ Colossians 3 ►
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Summary Put On the New Self Colossians 3 paints an inspiring picture of Christian life, embodying Christ's love, holiness, and heavenly focus. It calls for a transformative journey of casting off our old selves, clothing ourselves in virtue, and walking in love and unity. This chapter empowers us to strive towards a life enriched by Christ's teachings, prompting us to transform our hearts, homes, and communities. Verses 1-4 (Living the Resurrected Life): Paul urges believers to focus on heavenly, not earthly, matters, for they have been raised with Christ. Their life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ appears, they too will appear with Him in glory. Verses 5-11 (Putting to Death the Old Self): Paul instructs the Colossians to put to death their earthly nature, citing sinful behaviors like sexual immorality, greed, and anger. He stresses that in Christ, there's no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, but Christ is all and in all. Verses 12-17 (Adorning the New Self): The believers are urged to dress in virtues like compassion, kindness, and patience, bearing with each other, and forgiving as the Lord forgave them. Above all, they should love, which binds all virtues in perfect unity. They are to let Christ's peace rule their hearts and the word of Christ dwell in them richly. Verses 18-25 (Christian Household Instructions): Paul provides instructions for Christian households - wives are to submit to their husbands, husbands are to love their wives, children are to obey their parents, and fathers are not to embitter their children. He also addresses slaves, urging them to work wholeheartedly as unto the Lord. 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. 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. 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. 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. Bible Study 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? 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions