Colossians 3 calls us to live in the reality of our new life in Christ. Paul begins by reminding us that if we have been raised with Christ, our focus should be on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Our minds should not be consumed with earthly things, because our true life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, appears, we will also appear with Him in glory. This means that our identity is no longer found in the things of this world, but in Christ Himself.
Because of this new identity, we are called to put to death whatever belongs to our earthly nature. Paul lists things like sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desire, and greed, which he says is idolatry. These things belong to our old way of life and bring God’s wrath upon those who continue to live in them. At one time, we may have walked in these ways, but now we are called to live differently. Paul also tells us to get rid of anger, wrath, malice, slander, and filthy language. These behaviors do not reflect the new life we have in Christ. Instead, we are to put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
Paul emphasizes that in Christ, there is no division between people. There is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, or free. Christ is all and in all. This means that our identity in Him surpasses any cultural, social, or ethnic distinctions. We are all part of His body, united in His love.
Since we are God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, Paul calls us to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Just as Christ has forgiven us, we are to forgive one another. If we have a complaint against someone, we should not hold onto resentment but extend grace. Above all, we are to put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. Love is the defining mark of our new life in Christ.
Another key part of our new life is letting the peace of Christ rule in our hearts. We were called to this peace as members of one body, and we should always be thankful. Gratitude is an essential attitude for us as followers of Christ. Paul also urges us to let the word of Christ dwell richly within us. This means immersing ourselves in God’s truth, teaching and encouraging one another with wisdom. Singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with thankfulness in our hearts is a natural outflow of a life centered on Christ.
Whatever we do—whether in word or deed—should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. This reminds us that our entire lives should be lived for God’s glory. Every action, every conversation, every decision should reflect the reality of Christ in us.
Paul then gives instructions for our relationships. Wives are called to submit to their husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands are called to love their wives and not be harsh with them. Children are instructed to obey their parents in everything, as this pleases the Lord. Fathers are told not to provoke their children so they do not become discouraged. These instructions show that our faith is not just about our relationship with God, but also about how we treat those around us. Our homes should reflect Christ’s love and order.
Paul also addresses those who work under authority. Servants are called to obey their earthly masters in everything, not just to please them when they are watching, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever work we do, we should do it with all our hearts, as if we are working for the Lord rather than for people. This is because we will receive our true reward from the Lord. Ultimately, He is the one we are serving. Paul also warns that wrongdoers will be repaid for their actions, and there is no favoritism with God.
This chapter challenges us to examine our lives and ask whether we are truly living out our identity in Christ. Are we setting our minds on things above, or are we still consumed with earthly desires? Are we putting to death our old sinful nature, or are we still holding on to habits that do not reflect Christ? Are we clothing ourselves with compassion, kindness, and love? Are we allowing the peace of Christ to rule in our hearts? These are questions we must continually ask ourselves as we grow in our faith.
Living as new creations in Christ is not just about avoiding sin, but about actively pursuing godly virtues. It is about being intentional in our relationships, choosing forgiveness over resentment, choosing love over selfishness, and choosing to serve the Lord in all that we do. We are no longer who we used to be. Our lives have been transformed, and we now belong to Christ. This should be evident in every aspect of how we live.
Paul reminds us that Christ is our life. He is our focus, our source of strength, and our greatest treasure. If we keep our eyes on Him, everything else falls into place. The things of this world will lose their grip on us, and we will find true joy and peace in living for Him.
As we go forward, let us commit ourselves to living out our new identity. Let us put off the old self and put on the new, allowing God to shape us into the image of Christ. Let us be people of love, peace, and gratitude, reflecting His glory in all that we do. And above all, let us keep our eyes fixed on Him, knowing that when He appears, we will appear with Him in glory.