We are reminded in Colossians 3 that believers who have died and risen with Christ are called to set their affections on things above—focusing on Christ and the eternal unseen—rather than earthly things, living in light of their secure union with Him and His soon return. This heavenly mindset leads to practically “putting off the old man” by mortifying sins such as sexual immorality, covetousness, anger, malice, filthy speech, and lying, which characterized their former life. Instead, they are to live consistently with their new identity in Christ, empowered by His resurrection life to walk in holiness and freedom.

In Colossians 3:10-14, the Apostle Paul shifts from instructing believers in verses 5-9 to “put off the old man with his deeds” (anger, wrath, malice, filthy talk) and to “put on the new man.” This episode demonstrates that we do this by daily clothing ourselves with Christ’s virtues: mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering, forbearance, forgiveness (as He forgave us), and above all charity (love), which binds them perfectly. By the Holy Spirit’s power, we thus demonstrate Christ’s life outwardly, honoring our identity as God’s elect, holy, and beloved.

Expounding on Ephesians 4:22-32, this episode shows how the Apostle Paul instructs us to “dress the part” in accordance to our identity in Christ. Believers are urged to decisively “put off” the old man, which is bitter, angry, and mean, and to “put on” the new man, which is kind, compassionate, and forgiving. To accomplish this, we need to starve the old nature and feed and fill our minds with the Word of God, so that the new man controls our daily lives. By living out these instructions, in the power of the Spirit, we will be transformed by grace.