Week 26
Clothed with Christ
Colossians 3:5–17
“Put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him.”
Colossians 3:5–17 (NKJV)
Paul speaks of Christian growth as both death and clothing. What belongs to the old life must be put to death, and the character of Christ must be deliberately put on.
The list is concrete: disordered desire, greed, anger, malice, slander, filthy speech, and lying. Grace does not leave these powers unnamed or unchallenged.
Yet Christianity is not merely subtraction. The risen Christ is forming a new humanity renewed in knowledge according to the Creator’s image.
In that humanity, distinctions once used for superiority lose their power. Christ is all and in all; no status can make one believer more fully welcomed than another.
The wardrobe of the new life is compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and above all love. These are not decorative virtues but the visible form of Christ’s reign.
Paul says to put them on. Feelings may accompany obedience, but we do not wait for perfect feeling before practicing mercy or forgiveness.
The peace of Christ rules, His word dwells richly, and gratitude fills speech and song. Transformation occurs within worshiping community, not private resolve alone.
Before entering today’s relationships, consciously clothe yourself in Christ. Ask which old garment must be removed and which virtue love requires you to wear.
In Conversation with C. S. Lewis
Lewis distinguished God’s work from making naturally pleasant people slightly nicer. The gospel aims at new creatures who share the very life of Christ.
Colossians gives that transformation its daily texture: the old practices are put away and Christ’s own compassion, peace, word, and love become the clothing of His people.
A Prayer
Lord Jesus,
Risen Christ, put to death what belongs to my old life and renew me in Your image.
Clothe me with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and love. Let Your peace rule and Your word dwell richly in me.
May everything I do bear Your name with thanksgiving. Amen.
Think and Walk with Christ
Let truth become wisdom.
Return often to Colossians 3:5–17. Ask the Spirit to renew not only what you believe, but how you see and live.