Colossians 3:12-14

The Christian's New Clothes

The only way to keep sin's clothing off is to replace it with the new clothes of the Christian life (Matthew 12:43-45). Elect, holy and beloved are all terms used in the Old Testament to describe physical Israel as God's chosen people. Now, Christians comprise God's chosen people. As such, they should develop hearts of compassion for the physical and spiritual needs of others. The Lord fed the hungry, healed the sick, raised the dead, wept with those that mourned and cried over the lost. To be like Him, one's concern must extend to those today who are in similar circumstances. Compassion can only truly be shown in a gentle demeanor, or kindness. Jesus' disciple will place selfish considerations behind the needs of others, thus exhibiting lowliness of mind and humility. Such will also cause one to put up with ill treatment and ingratitude from the very ones whose needs he has tried to meet.

The redeemed should endure wrongs they may suffer at the hands of brethren and have a forgiving spirit. Notice, the Lord's prayer as He looked down from the cross at the mob that crucified Him (Luke 23:34). Of course, such a spirit cannot lead to full forgiveness without repentance on the part of the wrongdoer (Acts 2:23; Nahum 1:3; Exodus 23:7). The Lord came to earth to extend an offer of forgiveness, to those lost in sin, by His death on the cross. To be like Him, believers must extend an offer of forgiveness even when they are wronged (Matthew 18:15-17). Love is the outer garment that holds all the other garments in place. Love will cause one to keep God's commandments and look out for the best interests of brethren and enemies (Colossians 3:12-14; 1 John 5:3; John 13:34-35; Matthew 5:43-45).