Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Jesus Christ Who Restores

Col 3:1-11

Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. vs 2

 In Chapter 3, of St. Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he lays down the rules for a Holy living. Paul had to do this because the Church in Colossae had been infiltrated by false teaching and doctrines that were confusing the believers.

Paul tells the Colossians to seek the things that are above since they have been saved by Christ, who is above, seated at the right hand of God. He again reiterates that they should set their hearts and minds on the things that are above because that is where Christ is. He wants their affections, their wills and their choices to be guided by the life of Christ. This will keep them from loving the world too much and creating idols of worldly things. This will help them to guard against despair and strengthen them when their faith is tested. It will be a motivation for them to fight against sin and help them to lead others to Christ. They are not to participate in the sins which trap unbelievers. It is the earthly man that makes idols of earthly desires. Sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed are not to be part of the Christian's life. (v 5) 

Paul’s skilful use of imagery of “taking off” and “putting on” depicts a change of soiled clothes. He exhorts them to put away any conduct that is detrimental to a harmonious and holistic Christian life. He gives them several points to illustrate the kind of conduct they should abstain from to lead a holy life. Anger, rage, malice, slander, filthy language and lying are not characteristics of a true Christian. (vs 8-9)

Paul’s letter to the Colossians is also an admonition to us. We are to always remember who we are in Christ. Our old self (old Adam) needs to be put off and we need to take on the new Adam who is Christ Himself. Our progression into the new Adam is a continuous process because it means increasing in knowledge and growing into the image of Christ our Creator and God.  1Peter 1:15-16 says,” as he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct; for it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”

Just like Jesus sought and restored the disciples (who had betrayed, abandoned, and denied Him) when they surrendered to His calling, we also will be restored to His grace and mercy when we surrender our lives to Him.

PRAYER

O Lord, our heavenly Father, help us to stay true to You in all our thoughts, words, and deeds. Help us to lead a life that conforms to Your will. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8

Philip Manuel and Laila Anie Philip
Carmel MTC, Boston


Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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