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Colossians-3

Put On the New Self: A Devotional Study on Colossians 3​

Introduction​

The book of Colossians is a classic letter from Paul, filled with powerful teaching on the nature of Christ and the Christian life. In this study, we will dive into Colossians chapter 3, focusing on the transformative power of the gospel and the call to put on the new self.

Section 1: The Old Self vs. The New Self (Colossians 3:1-6)​

Devotional Thought: In verse 9, Paul commands, "Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed to a true knowledge in accordance with the image of its Creator." This command to do away with lying reflects the contrast between our old self and our new self. As we renew our minds and align ourselves with our Creator, we put off the old self and put on the new. Today, let's reflect on the habits and practices of our old self and commit to shedding them in favor of the new.

Reflection Questions:

  • What habits and practices of your old self do you need to put away?
  • In what ways can you actively work towards putting on the new self and living according to your true identity in Christ?

Section 2: Compassion and Forgiveness (Colossians 3:12-13)​

Devotional Thought: Paul's exhortation to clothe ourselves with compassion and forgiveness reiterates the contrast between our old self and our new self. By putting on compassion, we reflect the heart of God, and by putting on forgiveness, we echo the grace we have received in Christ. Today, consider the impact of these virtues, forgiving others and extending compassion, and seek opportunities to live out this new identity.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you actively extend compassion to those in need?
  • How can forgiveness be a part of your daily life, reflecting the grace you have received in Christ?

Section 3: The New Life (Colossians 3:14-17)​

Devotional Thought: In this section, Paul encourages us to put on love, peace, patience, kindness, and humility. Instead of fighting against the habits and practices of our old self, we should put on these virtues. These virtues serve as the foundation of the new life Christ has offered us. Today, consider how you can actively cultivate these virtues in your life.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can each of these virtues be a part of your daily life, reflecting the new identity and new life Christ offers?
  • How can you grow in practicing these virtues daily?

Section 4: Letting the Peace of Christ Prevail (Colossians 3:15-17)​

Devotional Thought: The call to let the peace of Christ prevail is a critical component of our new life. As we put on the virtues listed in verse 14, we can maintain a spirit of peace, rooted in the hope we have in Christ. Today, consider how peace can be a focal point in your life, reflecting an unwavering faith in Christ.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you actively seek and maintain the peace Christ offers, rooted in your faith?
  • In what ways can you embrace peace as a cornerstone of your new identity in Christ?

Section 5: Christ is Our All (Colossians 3:18-25)​

Devotional Thought: In the final verses of Colossians 3, Paul reminds us that Christ is our all in all. All that we need is found in Him alone. As we embrace our new identity in Christ, let's hold fast to this truth. Today, consider how Christ is your all in all and trust in His sufficiency.

Reflection Questions:

  • In what ways can you daily honor Christ as your all in all?
  • How can embracing the sufficiency of Christ in your life produce fruitful and Christ-honoring relationships?

Conclusion:​

In this study, we have delved into Colossians 3 and its powerful teaching on the new self and the Christian life. Today, let's commit to actively putting on the virtues of compassion, forgiveness, love, peace, patience, kindness, and humility, living out our true identity in Christ. Let's also let the peace of Christ prevail and trust in His sufficiency, holding fast to Christ as our all in all. May we carry these truths into our daily lives, producing fruitful and Christ-honoring relationships.