The Bible for Regular People: ColossiansSample

Colossians 3

Colossians chapter 3 is rich with wisdom and guidance for how to live a Jesus-centered life. The chapter begins with the apostle Paul urging believers to set their hearts and minds on heavenly things rather than earthly things. He reminds us that since we were raised with Christ, we are to seek the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. This does not mean that we simply think about heaven all day, but rather that we have a kingdom mentality so that we know how to live it out on earth. This sets the tone for a life anchored in the eternal perspective of God's kingdom.

Paul then encourages us to put to death earthly desires and sinful behaviors such as sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed. He adds several others to that list, such as anger, slander, and lying as well. These are things that belong to our old sinful nature, which we have put off since we have been renewed in Christ. Instead, we are to clothe ourselves with virtues that reflect our new identity in Christ: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

Central to living out this new life is love. Paul emphasizes that we are to put on love above all virtues, which binds everything together in perfect unity. This love is not merely a feeling but a choice to act in selfless devotion to God and others, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself for us.

Practicing these virtues isn’t just a matter of personal transformation; it also affects our relationships within the Christian community. Paul instructs us to bear with one another and forgive each other as the Lord has forgiven us. This unity in love and forgiveness reflects our unity in Christ, transcending cultural, social, and ethnic differences.

Paul then instructs us to let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts and to practice thankfulness. When we set our minds on God and His kingdom, we receive His peace that passes our understanding. When we practice gratitude, we experience the transformative work of Christ in our lives and serve as a powerful witness to others.

Paul concludes by reminding us, not once but twice, why we are to do these things. In verse 17 and again in verses 23-24, he says that whatever we do, do it for the Lord and not for people—reminding us yet again that our lives are meant to be lived out with Jesus at the center. It’s about continually setting our minds on things above, intentionally putting our old sinful nature to death, and allowing the Holy Spirit to produce the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control in our lives.

Reflection/Prayer
Use the guided prayer video below to reflect on today’s reading.