Put on love (Colossians 3) 080507
Paul started this chapter by urging the believers of Colossi to set their minds on the things above, not the things that are on earth (v2). I think he was putting forth an almost impossible challenge to the modern culture of today, but this is the truth! This is exactly what we need to do as Christians of today. We really need to set our minds on the things above. But the things that are on earth are so attractive to many of us, that we simply ignore this truth.
Paul did not simply present the truth, but explained it and gave practical examples to the first century believers. We as the twenty first century Christians can also learn from it. And I think the summary of it is found in verse 14, put on love (v14).
Paul seemed to be a harsh and strong apostle, he gave no chance to those false teachers and people who came into the church with false teaching. He seemed to advocate the grace of God strongly as opposed to justification by the work of the Law. He even opposed to the chief apostle Peter when he thought that Peter’s action by refraining themselves from certain food in the presence of the Jews, as having double standard. But one central theme or rather a common guiding principle which Paul operated under was love.
In most of Paul letters, there is a section which taught or exhorted the church to harmonious living. Though many scholars said that this is something common in the first century letter writing format, but the way Paul taught about harmonious living is motivated by the love of Christ.
The outcome of such love is unity among believers (v14). Unity between husband and wife (v18-19), parents and children (v20-21), and employers and employees (v22-24). What motivate and guide you relationship with your spouse? Do you express your love and appreciation to your spouse out of the love of Christ or responsibility? How do you relate with your parents? Do you respect them and honor them out of love of Christ or simply out of obligation or even do not bother about them? What is your work attitude like? Is it also governed by the love of Christ? Do you give your best at work and honor your superior or simply go through the motion day after day? Do you take your job as a calling with passion or you drag yourself to the office just to ensure you get your pay check at the end of the month?
Set your mind on the things above, put on love of Christ and live a life of unity and harmony.
