Colossians: Alive In Christ Mostra

A lot of the change Paul has been speaking about in this chapter so far has been negative. That is, his emphasis has been on killing our old life before Christ, and therefore what we, as believers, need to ‘put off’. In these verses, Paul now speaks about the positive change new life in Christ produces in us. He speaks here of what we need to ‘put on’. 

Again, we see that change starts with what we have already become in Christ – a loved, chosen and holy people (v. 12). We are now called to live this out in the details of our lives. For example, knowing that we’ve already been declared holy in Christ should motivate us to actually seek holiness in our lives, or knowing that we’re chosen to become like Christ ought to drive us to change. 

Notice the specific nature of the list of qualities in verses 12–13. The change produced in us is not vague or general, but leads to specific and practical traits in us – compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience and forgiveness. These qualities are basically all about love (v. 14), which is the hallmark of the Christian life (see Rom. 13:9; Gal. 5:14). Spiritual maturity always displays itself in changed relationships. Who we are with other people reveals who we are with Christ. 

Our role in the change process outlined here is to put these things on. Observe that, even though Christ’s life is the power to change us, Paul calls us to effort, work and discipline in becoming loving people. We are to act in the middle of our relationships and take responsibility for our spiritual growth. As we do that, God will work in us. A living faith in Christ always shows itself in the kind of love that Christ has. 

Reflection

1. Are there any relationships where you know you need to put on forgiveness or patience at the moment? How will you do that?

2. Who in your church needs your proactive and practical love at the moment?