| Series | 2. Reading from Colossians |
|---|---|
| Theme | 2. Reading from Colossians - Faitauga mai le tusi o Kolose |
| Colour | Lanu Meamata |
| Special Day | Fono – Komiti o A’oga |
Scripture Focus: Kolose 3:12-17
Put on therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, humility, and perseverance; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, if any man has a complaint against any; even as Christ forgave you, so you also do. Above all these things, walk in love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your heart to the Lord. Whatever you do, in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father, through him.
- Colossians 3:12-17 (WEB)
Study:
Paul continues to instruct the Colossians on living a life worthy of their calling. Having laid the foundation of putting off the old self and putting on the new, he now details how this new life looks. It’s characterized by virtues that stem from being “God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved.” These aren’t qualities we manufacture ourselves, but the overflow of a heart transformed by Christ. Compassion, kindness, humility, and forgiveness aren’t simply nice traits; they are evidence of God’s work within us. The call to bear with one another and forgive reflects the forgiveness we’ve received in Christ. Love is presented as the ultimate tie that binds all these virtues together, and the peace of God, flowing from this love, is meant to rule our hearts. Finally, Paul emphasizes the importance of allowing God’s word to richly dwell within us, guiding our teaching and interactions with others.
Application:
These verses provide a powerful roadmap for Christian living. In a world often marked by selfishness and division, we are called to stand out by demonstrating compassion and forgiveness. It’s easy to hold onto grudges or judge others, but this passage reminds us that we’ve been forgiven much, and therefore should extend grace to others. The “peace of God” isn’t simply an absence of conflict, but an inner tranquility that comes from trusting in His sovereignty. Allowing the word of Christ to “dwell in us richly” means consistently engaging with Scripture and allowing it to shape our thoughts, words, and actions. This isn't a passive reception, but active teaching and encouragement of others.
Reflection Questions:
- What areas of your life require more compassion and kindness?
- How can you actively forgive someone who has wronged you?
- In what ways can you allow the peace of God to “rule” your heart, especially in challenging situations?
- How can you ensure the Word of Christ is dwelling richly in you this week?
- What 'word or deed' can you do today in the name of Jesus?
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you for choosing me and setting me apart. Help me to put on the qualities of compassion, kindness, humility, and perseverance. Forgive me for the times I’ve held onto grudges or failed to extend grace to others. Fill my heart with your peace and let your word dwell richly within me, guiding my thoughts and actions. Help me to live a life that is worthy of your calling, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Tags: Colossians, Compassion, Forgiveness, Love, Peace, Humility, Christian Living, New Life, Scripture, Grace, Prayer