Continuous Renewal

Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him Colossians 3:9-10

 The church in Colosse is a new-born congregation, but they are often influenced by their old habits. Supposedly, when someone believes in Jesus, he/she experiences a transformation. Christians are not expected to be new creation, but they have been truly made into new creation.

However, many Christians are not aware of this reality. The consequence is, although they have become Christians, they still live in their old ways. This happens because they do not have the full knowledge of this truth. Instead, they follow the worldly thinking.

There are truths to this. First, as God’s children, we must know our new position in Christ. In the past we lived in darkness, following the law and ways of the kingdom of darkness, but the Lord has brought us out of there and into the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. This means we have a new citizenship, a new King, a new law and a new purpose.

Therefore, as believers, the influence of the kingdom of darkness should lessen over time in our lives. Instead, the influence from God’s kingdom should be more apparent. The devil will try to hinder, influence and even take us out from this new reality. That is why we must know what is right so that we can detect the lies of the devil.

The second truth is that we should not follow the ways of this world. Paul reminded the church in Colosse about the teachings that prioritize man-made laws which will only satisfy the fleshly desires. For example: extreme rituals and traditions that are considered an essence.

The third truth is that as God’s children, we must set our mind on things that are above. “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” Colossians 3:1-2. The Lord has graced us with a new life. This new life is realized progressively and continually with the purpose that we become in the same image of Christ Jesus. Amen. God bless.

 

                                                        Source : Article from GBI Gatot Subroto, Jakarta