Today, as we conclude our ‘Passages to Ponder’ series, I want to focus on the ‘Apparel of Christ’, drawing from Colossians 3. This passage complements our earlier studies on the Beatitudes, the defilements of the heart, the qualities of love, the works of the flesh, the fruits of the Spirit, and the unity of the Spirit.
In Colossians 3, Paul reminds us that being raised with Christ is a transformative experience. It’s a call to seek the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God, and to set our minds on things above, not on earthly matters. This new life in Christ entails a significant change: we must put to death our earthly members and put off the old self with its practices. This change is not just a rejection of sin but an embracing of a new, Christ-like lifestyle.
Paul instructs us to ‘put on the new man’, renewed in knowledge after the image of Christ. This new identity transcends all earthly divisions, uniting us in Christ. The ‘apparel of Christ’ includes virtues like tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, long-suffering, and above all, love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. These virtues are not just ideals but practical attributes we must actively cultivate.
In addition to these virtues, Paul highlights the need for the peace of Christ to rule in our hearts and the importance of being thankful. The word of Christ should dwell in us richly, teaching and admonishing one another through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, with gratitude in our hearts to God. Everything we do, whether in word or deed, should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
So, how do we apply this to our lives? First, we must remember that this transformation begins with being raised with Christ, which involves baptism. This new life leads to a renewed mindset focused on heavenly things. But it requires effort; we must actively cast off the old self and its sinful practices and put on the new self, shaped in the likeness of Christ.
This journey of transformation is a personal one, where each of us must work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. It’s a collaborative effort, too, supported by the fellowship of the church. But remember, despite all our efforts, it’s God who works in us, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.
Today, I urge you to reflect on your life in Christ. Have you put on the new man? Are you living a life that reflects the virtues of Christ? If not, now is the time to make a change.
Let us help you in your journey to fully embrace the life that Christ offers.
