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Living the New Life in Christ: An Orthodox Study of Colossians 3:5 – 4:18
Introduction: Walking in the Fullness of Christ
The Apostle Paul's letter to the Colossians is a profound call to transformation in Christ.
In Colossians 3:5 – 4:18, he exhorts believers to put to death the old, sinful nature and to be renewed in the image of Christ. This passage is foundational in Orthodox Christian teaching, emphasizing the spiritual struggle against the passions, the pursuit of divine virtues, and the integration of faith into daily life, including family and work.
For the Orthodox Christian, salvation is not merely a one-time event but a lifelong process of theosis—becoming partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). This study will explore how St. Paul's instructions align with Orthodox teachings on asceticism, sacramental life, and the pursuit of holiness within the Body of Christ.
We will examine:
1. Mortifying the Flesh & Renewal in Christ – How Orthodox asceticism helps us overcome sinful passions.
2. Living in Virtue & Love – The role of prayer, humility, and sacramental life in our spiritual renewal.
3. The Christ-Centered Household – How Orthodox marriage and family life reflect the Mystery of Christ and His Church.
4. Persevering in Prayer & Evangelism – Unceasing prayer and wise Christian witnessing.
5. Unity in the Church – The importance of faithfulness, obedience, and communion with the saints.
Through this study, we will apply St. Paul's exhortations to our spiritual journey, embracing the Orthodox path of repentance, sacramental grace, and unwavering commitment to Christ.
Bible Study: Colossians 3:5 – 4:18 (NKJV)
Theme: The New Life in Christ & Christian Conduct
- Purpose: To understand how St. Paul exhorts the Colossians to put off the old self, embrace the new life in Christ, and live out this transformation within the Church and society.
SECTION 1: PUTTING OFF THE OLD MAN & PUTTING ON CHRIST
Colossians 3:5-11 – Mortify the Flesh & Be Renewed in Christ
Key Verses:
"Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry." (Col. 3:5)
Orthodox Commentary & Reflection
- Ascetic Struggle & Theosis:
- St. Paul calls believers to actively "put to death" sinful passions. In Orthodox spirituality, this is the lifelong ascetical struggle against the passions (πάθη), which hinder the soul from uniting with God.
- Passions vs. Virtues:
- Passions (fornication, uncleanness, greed, etc.) distort our image of God. However, we are transformed by the grace of the Holy Spirit and participation in the sacraments.
- Image of God & Renewal (v. 10-11):
- Orthodox teaching emphasizes that through Baptism and ongoing repentance, we are renewed in Christ, restoring the divine image lost in Adam.
SECTION 2: PUTTING ON VIRTUES OF THE NEW MAN
Colossians 3:12-17 – The Christian Life in Love & Peace
Key Verses:
"Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering." (Col. 3:12)
Orthodox Commentary & Reflection
- The Garment of Virtues (v. 12-14):
- The Fathers teach that these virtues are gifts of the Holy Spirit, cultivated through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.
- Love as the Bond of Perfection (v. 14):
- St. John Chrysostom teaches that love (ἀγάπη) is the highest virtue, binding all others together in harmony.
- Liturgical & Eucharistic Life (v. 16-17):
- The emphasis on "singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs" (v. 16) aligns with the Orthodox focus on liturgical worship, where prayer and Scripture unite believers in Christ.
SECTION 3: ORDER IN THE CHRISTIAN HOUSEHOLD
Colossians 3:18-25 – Christ-Centered Family & Work
Key Verses:
"Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them." (Col. 3:18-19)
Orthodox Commentary & Reflection
- Marriage as a Mystery (Sacrament) (v. 18-19):
- The Orthodox Church sees marriage as an icon of Christ and the Church (Eph. 5:32). Submission is not about oppression but mutual love and sacrifice, reflecting Christ's love for the Church.
- Obedience with Christ at the Center (v. 20-22):
- Children and servants are exhorted to obey in the fear of the Lord, and all work and relationships are taught to be rooted in Christ.
- Work Done for God (v. 23-25):
- Orthodox tradition teaches that all work, done with diligence and prayer, is an offering to God.
SECTION 4: CONTINUING IN PRAYER & WITNESS
Colossians 4:1-6 – Prayer & Christian Witness
Key Verses:
"Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving." (Col. 4:2)
Orthodox Commentary & Reflection
- Prayer as Spiritual Warfare (v. 2):
- The Jesus Prayer ("Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me") is central to Orthodox practice and encourages unceasing prayer.
- Walking in Wisdom (v. 5-6):
- Evangelization in Orthodoxy is done not by force but by example, showing wisdom and love in speech.
SECTION 5: FINAL GREETINGS & ORTHODOX COMMUNION
Colossians 4:7-18 – Unity in Christ's Body
Key Verses:
"And say to Archippus, 'Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.'" (Col. 4:17)
Orthodox Commentary & Reflection
- The Communion of Saints:
- In Paul's greetings to fellow believers, the Church is one body. This reflects the Orthodox understanding of the Church as a spiritual family on earth and in heaven.
- Faithfulness in Ministry (v. 17):
- Each Christian has a calling. St. John Chrysostom exhorts us to persevere in our spiritual vocation, using our gifts for Christ's glory.
Conclusion & Application
How Can We Live This Today?
1. Practice Daily Repentance & Spiritual Warfare:
- Regular confession & spiritual discipline help put off the older man.
2. Cultivate the Virtues of the New Man:
- Love, humility, and patience should be practiced in daily interactions.
3. Participate Fully in the Church's Sacramental Life:
-Eucharist, prayer, and liturgical life nourish the soul.
4. Live Christ-Centered Family & Work Life:
-Marriage and work should be viewed as ways to serve God and others.
5. Commit to Continuous Prayer & Evangelism:
- Praying unceasingly and witnessing through holy living and wisdom.
In Christ, love ❤️ Jared W Campbell
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