Interconnected: RelationshipsSample

New Man in Town

Walking as Jesus walked . . . that’s the earthly goal of every believer, right? Jesus is our example, the One whom we seek to become more like every day, the One we desire to be conformed to (Romans 8:29).

Just before we get to verse 10, Paul urges us to “put off” things such as “fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry” as well as “anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, and filthy language.” He continues by telling us to “not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds” (Colossians 3:5–9 NKJV).

Now, we can agree that these are all things we should stay away from, and certainly things Jesus stayed away from. Paul is reminding us that at one time we lived in these things and were subject to the wrath of God before Jesus. Why is Paul reminding us of this? And what can we learn and apply in our lives from this reminder?

Well first, as believers, we should be seeking “those things which are above, where Christ is” (Colossians 3:1 NKJV). Every day, we should seek to imitate Christ (Ephesians 5:1), thereby glorifying Him and shining His light in a dark world. Second, knowing who we were, and having been redeemed, we should always be conscious of those who are still lost. As sinners who’ve been adopted into God’s family, we know how fulfilling and life-changing it is to have a relationship with Christ. We put off these sinful things because we are being molded by the Spirit into the image of Christ, so that others may see Christ in us and turn to Him.

Walking as Jesus walked should be the earthly goal of every believer. Why? Because the fruit of these actions will have eternal implications. Countless lives may be changed because of your visible, Christ-like faith!

DIG: In what ways have you become more like Jesus?
DISCOVER: Why do you believe it’s important to show the change God’s done in your life?
DISPLAY: Today, consider who you used to be before Jesus, and thank God for the work He’s done to conform you to His Son!