The Apostle Paul demonstrated profound love for the new believers in Colossae by offering practical teaching regarding their family life. Because families can provide both immense joy and be the source of deep pain, regret, or dissatisfaction, this can be an important training ground for practicing the ways of Jesus. Paul understood he needed to help these new Jesus-followers take steps to build healthy marriages, parent wisely, and treat their in-laws with respect regardless of how challenging each relationship happens to be.
Paul began this discussion by previously reminding the Colossians of who they are and to whom they belong, “For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1.13-14).
Paul starts by reminding the Colossians that Jesus purchased them with his life, paying for their sins, and enabling each one of them to reflect his heart with their actions. The instruction Paul gives then, in Colossians 3.20-21, simply highlights the way a forgiven person should act. Your new identity as a follower of Jesus paves the way for transformed relationships.
As you begin the week, listen to Pastor Manion recite the passage below and identify what you find most compelling. Write in your The New You Journal (click here for a PDF version) something God points out to you. Then, take some time to read through Colossians chapters 1 and 2 and write in your journal all the words and phrases that describe your new identity.
