Transformed by Truth: A New Life in Christ Colossians 3:3
Introduction:
Today, we explore a powerful and transformative truth from the book of Colossians. Our key scripture is Colossians 3:3 (NLT): "For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God." This profound verse speaks to the essence of our Christian identity and the transformation that occurs when we embrace the truth of Christ. We will delve into three key aspects of this transformation: Our Death to the Old Life, Our New Life in Christ, and Our Future Glory with Him.
1. Our Death to the Old Life
"For you died to this life..."
Paul begins by reminding the Colossian believers that they have died to their old life. This death is a spiritual reality that signifies a complete break from the past.
The Greek word for "died" here is "apothnesko," which means to die off, or to be freed from. This indicates a decisive and final end to our former way of living. In Romans 6:6 (NLT), Paul elaborates: "We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin."
The crucifixion of our old self with Christ signifies that we are no longer dominated by our sinful nature. This death is not merely a symbolic act but a reality that has profound implications for our daily lives.
In the context of the Colossian church, false teachings were threatening to undermine the sufficiency of Christ. Paul counters this by reminding them of their union with Christ in His death. Similarly, we must remember that our old self, with its sinful tendencies, is crucified with Christ.
Imagine a caterpillar undergoing metamorphosis to become a butterfly. Once it emerges, it no longer crawls on the ground but soars in the sky. Similarly, our old life is left behind, and we are called to live in the newness of Christ.
2. Our New Life in Christ
"...and your real life is hidden with Christ in God."
Paul emphasizes that our true life is now hidden with Christ in God. This speaks to our new identity and security in Christ.
The Greek word for "hidden" is "krupto," which means to conceal or keep safe. This suggests that our new life is secure and protected in Christ. In Galatians 2:20 (NLT), Paul expresses this reality: "My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
This union with Christ means that our identity is now rooted in Him. Our lives are no longer defined by our past or our failures but by our relationship with Jesus.
For the Colossians, this meant rejecting the false teachers who advocated for additional spiritual practices to achieve fullness. For us, it means finding our worth and identity in Christ alone.
Consider a bank vault where precious items are securely stored. Our lives, hidden with Christ, are safeguarded by His divine protection and love.
3. Our Future Glory with Him
"And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory."
Paul points to the future revelation of Christ and the glory that believers will share with Him.
The Greek word for "revealed" is "phaneroo," which means to make manifest or visible. This refers to the second coming of Christ when He will be revealed in all His glory. In 1 John 3:2 (NLT), John writes: "Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is."
Our future glory with Christ is a promise of transformation and ultimate redemption. This hope encourages us to live with an eternal perspective.
For the Colossians, this meant looking beyond their present struggles and focusing on the eternal hope in Christ. For us, it means living in anticipation of Christ’s return and the fulfillment of His promises.
Think of a bride eagerly awaiting her wedding day. Her focus is on the joy and union with her bridegroom. Similarly, we eagerly await the day when we will be united with Christ in glory.
Conclusion and Call to Action:
Dear friends, as we embrace the transformative truth of Colossians 3:3, let us remember that we have died to our old life, our true life is hidden with Christ, and we look forward to sharing in His glory. This week, reflect on these truths and let them shape your identity and actions.
Application and Call to Action:
Reflect on Your Identity in Christ: Spend time in prayer and meditation, asking God to reveal areas where you may still be clinging to your old self. Embrace your new identity in Christ.
Live Out Your New Life: Let your actions reflect the reality of your new life in Christ. Serve others, share the Gospel, and live in a way that honours Him.
Anticipate His Return: Keep an eternal perspective. In times of struggle or doubt, remind yourself of the future glory you will share with Christ.
As we close, if you feel the need for prayer or encouragement, I invite you to come forward. Let us seek God together, trusting in His transformative power. Remember, you are hidden with Christ in God, and your life is secure in Him. Amen.
