Colossians Chapter 3

Colossians Chapter 3 is a pivotal section in the New Testament epistle of Colossians, written by the Apostle Paul. This chapter offers practical guidance for Christian living, focusing on the transformative power of faith in Christ and the ethical implications of a new identity in Him. It emphasizes the spiritual and moral conduct expected of believers and provides specific instructions on how to embody these principles in daily life.

**1. The New Life in Christ: Verses 1-4**

The chapter begins with an appeal to the Colossian Christians to live according to their new identity in Christ:

- **Seek the Things Above**: Paul urges believers to "set their hearts on things that are above" where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. This signifies a shift in focus from earthly concerns to spiritual priorities. It calls for a reorientation of values, aiming to align one’s desires and actions with the heavenly realm rather than with worldly pursuits.

- **Think on Heavenly Matters**: Believers are encouraged to "set their minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." This mental shift involves adopting a heavenly perspective that influences one’s thoughts, attitudes, and decisions.

- **Union with Christ**: Paul reminds the Colossians that their lives are now hidden with Christ in God. This hiddenness suggests a profound union with Christ, where the believer’s true identity and security are found in Him. When Christ, who is their life, appears, they too will be revealed in glory. This future hope of sharing in Christ’s glory serves as a motivation for living a holy life now.

**2. Putting Off the Old Self: Verses 5-9**

In light of this new identity, Paul instructs the Colossians to actively renounce behaviors that are inconsistent with their faith:

- **Mortify Earthly Desires**: Believers are to "put to death" whatever belongs to their earthly nature, including sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed. These behaviors are associated with the old self and are contrary to the new life in Christ.

- **Anger and Wrath**: Paul also addresses relational issues, advising against anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language. Such behaviors disrupt relationships and are out of alignment with the transformed life.

- **Integrity and Truthfulness**: The passage calls for believers to avoid lying to one another, emphasizing honesty and truthfulness as essential aspects of the new self.

**3. Putting On the New Self: Verses 10-14**

In contrast to the old behaviors, Paul describes the characteristics of the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge and is made in the image of its Creator:

- **Virtues of the New Self**: Believers are encouraged to "clothe" themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. These virtues reflect the character of Christ and are essential for building healthy and loving relationships within the Christian community.

- **Forgiveness and Love**: Paul highlights the importance of bearing with one another and forgiving grievances. Love is portrayed as the binding force that unites all virtues in perfect harmony. This love is central to Christian conduct and serves as a unifying principle.

**4. The Peace of Christ and the Word of Christ: Verses 15-17**

Paul then shifts focus to the internal and communal aspects of Christian life:

- **Peace of Christ**: Believers are to let the peace of Christ rule in their hearts, which fosters unity and harmony within the community. This peace should guide their decisions and interactions, ensuring that they reflect Christ’s presence in their lives.

- **Word of Christ**: The message of Christ should dwell richly among them, teaching and admonishing one another with wisdom. This involves engaging with Scripture, encouraging each other in faith, and applying biblical teachings to everyday life.

- **Gratitude**: Everything done, whether in word or deed, should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, with thanksgiving to God. Gratitude is a hallmark of Christian living, acknowledging God’s grace and provision in all aspects of life.

**5. Instructions for Christian Households: Verses 18-25**

The chapter concludes with practical advice for various relationships within Christian households:

- **Wives and Husbands**: Wives are instructed to submit to their husbands as is fitting in the Lord, while husbands are commanded to love their wives and not be harsh with them. This mutual respect and love reflect the harmony and commitment expected in Christian marriage.

- **Children and Parents**: Children are to obey their parents in everything, as this pleases the Lord. Fathers, on the other hand, are advised not to embitter their children to prevent discouragement.

- **Slaves and Masters**: Paul addresses slaves, instructing them to work with sincerity and respect as if serving the Lord. Masters are to provide what is right and fair, recognizing that they also have a Master in heaven.

**Summary**

Colossians Chapter 3 provides a comprehensive guide for living out the Christian faith in practical terms. It starts by urging believers to focus on their new identity in Christ and to align their lives with heavenly values. It calls for the renunciation of old, sinful behaviors and the embrace of new virtues that reflect Christ’s character. The chapter emphasizes the importance of peace, gratitude, and the application of Christ’s teachings in all areas of life, including family and work relationships. Through these instructions, Paul offers a blueprint for embodying a life transformed by faith, marked by love, unity, and a commitment to the values of the kingdom of God.