Colossians Exposition - Col 3:5-11 "How the 'New Man' Speaks and Lives"

Описание: A sermon preached by Paul Hartwig on Colossians 3:5-11, at Lakeside Chapel on 2026/02/15.

It focuses on how Christians are called to live. While salvation through grace is primary, a Christian is also known by sanctification. This means living differently from the world in thoughts, language, and relationships.

Just as complex health problems require an accurate diagnosis and remedy, spiritual health requires understanding God's word. Living a godly life is more than a simple five step process. It involves a transformation that goes beyond being a forgiven sinner to walking in righteousness and holiness.

The apostle Paul uses the terms old man and new man to describe a profound change. The old man is the old creation rooted in the fall of Adam. The new man is a new creation brought into the world through Jesus Christ. This is not just about the individual self, it is about a new human creation that God is bringing into the world.

Christianity is not merely about moral improvement or self help. It is about becoming a new creature. This change is essential because there is something fundamentally wrong at our roots that requires a radical new creation rather than minor adjustments.

The new man is ultimately Jesus Christ Himself. To put on the new man is to put on Christ and participate in the new humanity He created. This involves a shift from our old identity in Adam to a new identity in Christ.

Putting on the new man happens in two ways. It occurs decisively at conversion and initiation into Christ, which is often symbolized by baptism. However, it is also a progressive process. Christians must continually grow in knowledge and be renewed to become more like the image of their Creator.

Believers are called to live appropriately according to their new status. Just as one would not wear old, dirty clothes in a clean house, Christians should not wear the behaviors of their old nature. Paul lists specific things to rid yourself of:

Rage and anger.
Malice or evil intentions toward others.
Slander and filthy language.
Lying and dishonesty.

Followers of Christ are called to be a new species with Jesus as the specimen. This provides the power and ability to walk in righteousness. Rather than making excuses for behavior based on personality or circumstances, believers should take responsibility and experience the freedom and transformation found in the new creation.