Grasp the Gospel — Bible Comprehension Quizzes

Colossians 3 Devotional

Clothed in a New Self

“For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.”Colossians 3:3 (BSB)

Colossians 3 starts from what is already true. Believers have been raised with Christ. They have died, and their real life is now kept safe with Christ in God (3:1-3). When Christ appears, they will appear with him in glory (3:4). Only then does Paul give commands: put to death immorality and greed, put away anger and slander, and stop lying, since the old self has been taken off and a new self put on (3:5-10). In this new humanity, the old divisions of race, religion, and class no longer define anyone. Christ is all (3:11).

Paul calls believers chosen, holy, and dearly loved before telling them what to wear: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and above all love (3:12-14). They forgive because the Lord forgave them (3:13). Even the household instructions that follow, for wives and husbands, children and parents, slaves and masters, are framed by serving the Lord Christ (3:18-4:1). Your identity is settled in him first. Each choice today can put on what already fits who you are.

To think about: Which quality Paul lists here do you most need to put on today, and how does being dearly loved by God help you do it?

About Colossians 3: Set Your Minds on Things Above

Since believers have been raised with Christ, they must set their minds on things above and put to death earthly sins. They are to put on the new self, clothed with compassion, forgiveness, and love, and do everything in the name of the Lord, including in their households.

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