Introduction

Colossians 3 moves from theology to ethics. Since believers have been raised with Christ, they must put off the old self and put on the new. This chapter provides a blueprint for Christian character and relationships.

Set Your Mind Above (verses 1-4)

Since, then, they have been raised with Christ, set their hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set their minds on things above, not on earthly things. For they died, and their life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is their life, appears, then they also will appear with Him in glory.

• Raised with Christ: Resurrection life is already theirs
• Hearts Above: Affections set on heavenly realities
• Hidden Life: True life is concealed in Christ
• Future Glory: When He appears, they will too

Put to Death (verses 5-11)

Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to their earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. They used to walk in these ways, in the life they once lived. But now they must also rid themselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from their lips. Do not lie to each other, since they have taken off their old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.

• Put to Death: Active killing of sinful practices
• Former Life: These characterized who they were
• New Self: Being renewed in the Creator's image
• No Distinctions: Christ is all and in all

Put On (verses 12-17)

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave them. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in their hearts, since as members of one body they were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among them richly as they teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in their hearts. And whatever they do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

Household Instructions (verses 18-25)

Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on them and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever they do, work at it with all their heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since they know that they will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ they are serving. Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism.

Key Takeaways

• Mind Set Above: Focus on heavenly realities
• Off and On: Put off vice; put on virtue
• Love Binds: It holds all virtues together
• Work for the Lord: Every task serves Christ

Reflection Questions

• Is your mind set on things above or on earthly things?
• What do you need to "put to death" and what do you need to "put on"?
• Do you work as if serving Christ, not just human masters?