Putting off the Old and Putting on the New

Paul encourages the believers in Colossae to continue growing and maturing in Christ setting their minds or affections on things above. Abundant living comes only after dying. He urges the new church to put off the sinful earthly nature and to put on the new self, clothed in the characteristics of Christ. Paul not only gives these instructions but provides the means by which to accomplish them- “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.  And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”