Colossians 3:9

Do not lie to one another, since you have taken off the old self with its practices,

Study Bible

Do not lie to one another
The phrase "Do not lie to one another" is a direct command that emphasizes the importance of truthfulness within the Christian community. The Greek word for "lie" here is "pseudomai," which means to speak falsely or deceive. In the context of the early church, honesty was crucial for maintaining unity and trust among believers. This command reflects the broader biblical principle that God is a God of truth (John 14:6), and as His followers, Christians are called to reflect His character. Historically, lying was a common issue in many ancient cultures, often used for personal gain or to avoid consequences. However, the Christian ethic calls for a radical departure from such practices, promoting transparency and integrity.

since you have taken off the old self
The phrase "since you have taken off the old self" uses the imagery of removing clothing to describe a spiritual transformation. The Greek word "apekduomai" means to strip off or divest oneself of something. This metaphor suggests a deliberate and conscious action of renouncing one's former way of life, characterized by sin and deceit. In the historical context of the Colossian church, new believers were often coming out of pagan backgrounds, where moral and ethical standards differed significantly from Christian teachings. The "old self" represents the sinful nature that is to be discarded as one embraces a new identity in Christ.

with its practices
The phrase "with its practices" refers to the behaviors and habits associated with the "old self." The Greek word "praxis" denotes actions or deeds, emphasizing that the transformation in a believer's life is not just internal but also external, affecting how one lives daily. In the early church, this would have included renouncing not only lying but also other sinful behaviors such as idolatry, immorality, and greed. The call to abandon these practices is rooted in the understanding that faith in Christ leads to a new way of living, one that aligns with the values of the Kingdom of God. This transformation is both a personal and communal journey, as believers support one another in living out their new identity in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Colossians, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and theological teachings.

2. The Church at Colossae
The recipients of the letter, this was a Christian community in the ancient city of Colossae, located in modern-day Turkey.

3. The Old Self
Refers to the pre-Christian nature and behaviors that believers are called to abandon.

4. The New Self
The renewed nature and identity in Christ that believers are encouraged to embrace.

5. The Colossian Heresy
A mix of Jewish legalism, Greek philosophy, and mysticism that threatened the purity of the Gospel message in Colossae.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Truthfulness
As believers, we are called to live in truth, reflecting the character of God who is truth.

Transformation in Christ
The act of taking off the old self signifies a complete transformation that should be evident in our daily lives.

Community Integrity
Truthfulness is essential for maintaining trust and integrity within the Christian community.

Rejecting the Old Nature
Lying is a practice of the old self, and believers must consciously reject it as part of their spiritual growth.

Living Out the New Identity
Embrace the new self by aligning actions and words with the teachings of Christ, demonstrating the change He brings.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to "take off the old self" in practical terms, and how can this be applied in daily life?

2. How does the instruction to "not lie to one another" enhance the unity and trust within a Christian community?

3. In what ways can we identify and reject practices of the old self that may still linger in our lives?

4. How does understanding our new identity in Christ empower us to live truthfully and authentically?

5. How can we encourage one another in our communities to live out the truth of Colossians 3:9, and what role does accountability play in this process?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ephesians 4:22-25
Paul similarly instructs the Ephesians to put off the old self and speak truthfully to one another, emphasizing the transformation that comes with new life in Christ.

Romans 6:6
Discusses the crucifixion of the old self with Christ, highlighting the believer's freedom from sin's power.

2 Corinthians 5:17
Declares that anyone in Christ is a new creation, reinforcing the concept of the old self being replaced by the new.

Proverbs 12:22
Speaks to the Lord's detest for lying lips, aligning with the call for truthfulness in Colossians 3:9.