Reflections on Colossians Chapter 3
The Apostle Paul penned his letter to the Colossians while he was likely under house arrest (circa 60–62 AD). Colossae lay in the Lycus River Valley (in modern-day Turkey), not far from the more prominent city of Laodicea. Although major archaeological excavations of Colossae are limited, what remains hints at a thriving community influenced by diverse religious ideas. This cultural blend may explain Paul’s strong emphasis on Christ as the source of true wisdom, cautioning believers against false teachings.
Colossians 3 opens with Paul urging us to “set our hearts on things above, where Christ is” (v.1). The Greek phrase here for “set your minds” is φρονεῖτε (phroneite), which can also mean “to give serious consideration.” It implies not just a fleeting thought but a continuous, purposeful focus on heavenly realities.
This was crucial in Colossae’s environment, steeped in Greek and possibly proto-Gnostic philosophies. Today, we face a similar challenge: our attention is drawn to countless distractions and ideologies. In an age of 24/7 media and constant connectivity, choosing what captivates our mind is more important than ever.
Paul continues by urging believers to “put to death” the earthly nature (v.5). The Greek word he uses is νεκρώσατε (nekrōsate), literally meaning “make dead” or “render powerless.” In Christ, we are empowered to break old habits and unhealthy patterns. Likewise, we are to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience (v.12). The word “put on” in Greek is ἐνδύω (endýō), the same term used for dressing oneself in fresh garments.
Think of it as changing uniforms. Anyone who starts a new job puts aside their old uniform and wears the new one. Spiritually, we exchange our old way of being for the robe of Christ’s righteousness. Our new “dress code” sets us apart—even in a secularized culture.
• Workplace Attitudes: We might be tempted to see
coworkers as competitors for promotions or recognition. Colossians 3
elevates our perspective—these are our neighbors, not rivals, and we are
called to exhibit the grace of Christ.
• Online Interactions: Social media often invites
anger, slander, or crude jokes—paralleling Paul’s list of sins (v.8).
Setting our minds on things above means using online platforms to uplift
others.
• Family Dynamics: Colossians 3 later addresses family
relationships, urging love and respect (v.18-21). In the same way,
modern families thrive when grounded in Christ-like patience and
forgiveness.
• Legalistic Lens: Some read these verses as a
strict code of conduct, emphasizing rules and regulations.
• Libertine Lens: Others might dismiss Paul’s
instructions, arguing that grace covers all.
• Balanced Discipleship: A common Protestant view sees
these verses as a call to walk in the Spirit—authorized by grace and
motivated by love—to become more like Christ.
• Archaeological Curiosity: Fascination with Colossae’s
ruins highlights how cultures rise and fall, yet the eternal truths of
Scripture remain. Like the city’s physical remains, human traditions
fade away, but God’s principles continue to shape hearts.
• Romans 13:14 – “Clothe yourselves with the Lord
Jesus Christ.”
• Ephesians 4:22–24 – A parallel call to put off the
old self and put on the new.
• Galatians 3:28 – Similar theme of unity in Christ,
neither Jew nor Gentile.
What hidden patterns in your life still reflect the “old self,” and how can you consciously choose to “clothe yourself” with mercy and grace today?
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for calling us to a higher life in Christ. Help us to set our
hearts on things above and to put aside every old habit that keeps us
from true fellowship with You. Clothe us with compassion, humility, and
love so that our lives reflect the transforming power of Your Spirit.
Grant us wisdom to navigate our modern world with grace, and unite us in
serving You faithfully.
Amen.