Understanding Colossians 3 in Everyday Language
Sometimes, the language of the Bible can sound lofty or distant from our everyday lives. The message of passages like Colossians 3 is deeply practical. It’s about how we live, think, and treat others. It also concerns what we value most. Let’s break it down into plain English, so everyone can grasp its wisdom and live it out.
Looking Up, Not Just Around
The passage starts by reminding us that, if we believe in Jesus, our lives have changed in a profound way. It says we’ve been “raised with Christ.” Just as Jesus rose from the dead, we’re called to live a new life. This is a life that isn’t stuck in our old habits or limited by what’s happening around us.
We shouldn’t focus only on our daily problems. Making money or worrying about what others think should not be our only concern. Instead, we’re encouraged to “set our hearts on things above.” This simply means making our relationship with God and our spiritual growth the most important thing. Our life is now “hidden with Christ in God”—it’s safe, secure, and shaped by something much bigger than ourselves.
Leaving the Old Ways Behind
We all have things in our lives we’re not proud of—bad habits, selfishness, anger, or hurtful words. The Bible lists some of these things: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed. It calls these our “earthly nature.” These are the parts of us that pull us away from God. They also prevent us from loving others well.
The message is clear: let’s put those things to death. In everyday language, it means actively choosing not to let those habits or desires rule us anymore. It’s not easy, and it doesn’t happen overnight. But we’re invited to leave these old ways behind. It’s like taking off an old, dirty coat as we start a new life.
It doesn’t stop there. The passage also warns us about anger, rage, malice, slander (talking badly about others), and filthy language. Honesty matters. It advises us not to lie to each other. We are meant to be living as new people. We should be learning to be more like God every day.
Unity in Diversity
In this new life, there are no barriers of race. There is no tradition or social status that separates us. “There is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free.” Translated to today, it means your background, ethnicity, or social standing doesn’t matter to God. Everyone is valued. “Christ is all, and is in all.” We’re united by something far greater than anything that could divide us.
Putting on the Good Stuff
If we’re taking off our old habits, what do we put on in their place? The passage tells us to “clothe ourselves” with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Imagine getting dressed each morning. Choose not just your shirt or shoes. Also decide to wear kindness and patience throughout your day.
It’s about practical love—being quick to forgive when someone upsets us, just as God forgives us. And beyond all these good qualities, we’re told to put on love, which “binds them all together in perfect unity.” Love is what makes all the other virtues stick together. It’s the glue for everything good we try to do.
Letting Peace and Gratitude Guide Us
Life can be full of stress, arguments, or worry. Here, we’re encouraged to let “the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” When we let peace have the final say, we build stronger relationships. We create a calmer atmosphere for ourselves and others.
We’re also reminded to “be thankful.” Gratitude changes our perspective. It helps us see the good in our lives and in those around us. Even when things are tough, finding something to be grateful for can make all the difference.
Sharing and Growing Together
The passage encourages us to let “the message of Christ dwell among you richly.” Essentially, we should make sure the teachings and love of Jesus are alive in our communities. We’re invited to teach, encourage, and even correct each other wisely. We should use songs and music to express our gratitude and joy. Whether through singing, sharing stories, or supporting one another, we help each other grow.
Whatever You Do—Do It for God
The notion that everything we do can be done “in the name of the Lord Jesus” is powerful. This includes talking, working, helping others, and even our daily chores. That means doing your best. Maintain a good attitude. You’re ultimately working for God, not just for yourself or for other people. This perspective can make even the most ordinary tasks feel meaningful.
Healthy Relationships at Home
The end of the passage gives practical advice for families and households. Some of these instructions reflect the culture of the time. However, the heart of the message is still relevant: treat each other with respect and love.
· Wives and husbands are called to honor and care for one another. Wives are encouraged to support their husbands. Husbands should not be harsh, but instead, love deeply and kindly.
· Children are reminded to listen to their parents. This is not just for rules. It’s part of learning and growing.
· Parents, especially fathers, are warned not to be overly critical or harsh, so children don’t become discouraged. Encouragement goes a long way.
Work and Everyday Life
Finally, the passage talks about work and those in positions of authority. In the original context, it mentioned slaves and masters. Today, we can apply it to our jobs and daily responsibilities. The main point is this: whatever your role, do your work sincerely, as if you’re working for God. Give it your best effort, not just when people are watching, but all the time. And remember, everyone will answer for their actions, and God doesn’t play favorites.
Final Thoughts: Living the New Life
To sum it all up, living as those made alive in Christ means:
· Focus on what truly matters. Prioritize your relationship with God. Embrace the values of love, kindness, and forgiveness.
· Choosing to let go of harmful habits and attitudes, and putting on compassion, patience, and love.
· Remembering that everyone is equal in God’s eyes, so treat people with respect, no matter who they are.
· Let peace and gratitude shape your day. Do everything with a sense of purpose, as if you’re doing it for God.
· Building healthy, loving relationships at home and at work, guided by respect and encouragement.
This isn’t just a list of rules. It’s an invitation to live a new life. This life is full of meaning, joy, and connection with God and others. When we live this way, we reflect the love of Christ to the world around us. That creates a life worth living.
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