Remaking of one's core identity
PUT ON THE NEW SELF, WHICH IS BEING RENEWED
IN KNOWLEDGE IN THE IMAGE OF ITS CREATOR.
Colossians 3:10
Apostle Paul in his letter to the Christian community (Colossians 3:9-14) beautifully encapsulates the essence of the Christian journey, a transformative process that goes beyond surface-level changes to a profound remaking of one's core identity. The apostle Paul, writing to the Colossians, paints a vivid picture of the Christian's call to strip off the old self and put on the new. The "new self" in the context of Colossians 3:9-14 refers to the transformed or regenerated nature of a person who has embraced faith in Christ. This concept is part of the broader Christian understanding of Spiritual Rebirth or being Born Again wherein the Holy Spirit awakens our Spirit within us into the Embrace of the Everlasting Love of God and to Inherit the Gift of Eternal Life.
When someone becomes a follower of Jesus Christ, they are considered to undergo a profound inward change through the work of the Holy Spirit. This "new self" is closely associated with virtues such as righteousness, holiness, and a transformative conformity to the likeness of Christ. It symbolizes a departure from the old, sinful lifestyle towards a new way of existence harmonious with God's divine purposes and character. Paul specifically highlights the continuous renewal of the new self through knowledge, emphasizing an ongoing process of transformation and a growing comprehension of, and likeness to, God our Creator. This verse Colossians 3:10, underscores that embracing Christ is not a one-time occurrence but an enduring expedition—a journey of continual transformation into the image of Christ, facilitated by the renewing influence of the Holy Spirit.
Putting Off the Old Self:
The metaphor of "putting off the old self," we are reminded of the powerful imagery of shedding worn-out garments. This symbolizes more than a surface-level change; it signifies a deliberate and transformative act of discarding our former way of life. It entails breaking free from sinful habits, worldly influences, and the self-centered nature that once defined our existence apart from Christ.
Putting off the old self requires a conscious decision to step out of the shadows of our past and embrace the illuminating truth of God's love and grace. It involves relinquishing familiar, comfortable, and often harmful patterns of behavior in exchange for the new life and freedom found in Christ.
In John 3:16, Jesus, speaking to Nicodemus about being born again, invites us to embrace the profound reality of God's love demonstrated through the sacrificial gift of His Son. This invitation calls for a response of faith, repentance, and a willingness to undergo the transformative process of putting off the old self, so that we may fully experience the Gift of Eternal Life in Christ.
Putting On the New Self:
Putting on the "new self" transcends a simple change of attire; it entails a profound transformation from within. Romans 12:2 underscores the radical renewal of our minds and hearts, enabling alignment with God's perfect will. This continual renewal, as highlighted in Colossians 3:10, is a process guided by the Holy Spirit, shaping us to reflect the image of God as we grow in knowledge and conformity.
The journey toward completeness and fullness, emphasized in 2 Corinthians 5:17, illustrates the transformative power of being in Christ, where old ways are replaced by new life. Ephesians 4:22-24 urges active participation in this renewal process, aligning our thoughts and actions with God's righteousness and holiness.
In essence, putting on the new self signifies a profound transformation facilitated by our living relationship with Christ. It's an ongoing renewal by the Holy Spirit, drawing us closer to the image of our Creator and molding us into vessels that mirror the character of Christ.
Unity in Christ:
The transformative power of the Holy Spirit extends beyond personal change; it breaks down societal barriers. In Christ (Colossians 3:11), there is no distinction based on nationality, ethnicity, or social status. Paul's inclusive language—neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free—underscore the universal reach of God's redemptive plan. This unity in diversity reflects the beauty of the Christian community, where differences are not erased but celebrated in the tapestry of God's grace.
Clothed with Christ-like Virtues:
Having established the radical transformation at the core, Paul outlines the virtues that we are called to clothe ourselves with: a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. These virtues exemplify the character of Christ and become the fabric of the new self. They reflect a profound change in how we relate to others—a departure from selfishness to selflessness, from harshness to gentleness, and from impatience to enduring grace.
Forgiveness and Harmony:
The call to bear with one another and forgive echoes the heart of Christ's teachings. Just as the Lord forgave, we are urged to extend forgiveness generously. This act of forgiving binds the Christian community together in a tapestry of grace and fosters an environment where grievances don't fester but are replaced by love and reconciliation.
In conclusion, Colossians 3:9-13 is a profound call to embrace the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. It challenges us to move beyond superficial changes, to undergo a radical renewal, and to live in unity, adorned with the virtues of Christ. It's an invitation to daily shed the old self and allow the Holy Spirit to clothe us with the character of our Lord and Savior—a journey of continuous renewal and conformity to the image of God.
Here is a simple prayer to accept Christ as your Personal Savior:
Dear Lord Jesus,
I come to you with an open heart and a sincere desire to know you. I believe that you are the Son of God and that you came to save me from my sins. I confess that I am a sinner and in need of your forgiveness.
I confess my sins before you and ask for your mercy and grace. I believe in your death on the cross and your resurrection, and I accept you as my Lord and Savior.
Please come into my heart, take control, and guide me in your ways. I surrender myself to you and invite you to be the center of my life.
Thank you, Jesus, for your love and for the Gift of Eternal Life. I choose to follow you and trust in your promises. In your precious name, I pray.
Amen.
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