Colossians 3:12-17

Verse 12 stands in stark contrast to the previous verses 5, 7-9. It gives us examples of what TO do, as opposed to what NOT to do. We are to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

What is most compelling about v. 13? What makes it difficult for us to forgive one another when we have been wronged?

• forgive as the Lord forgave us first. We are all indebted.
• the unity of the body of Christ-- love creates unity, and verse 15 calls us members of one body called to peace.
• v. 13 implies that you will be wronged, grievances are a given when dealing with a sinful people-- it is our response that matters
• forgiveness is difficult because of our fallen nature (e.g. v.8)

Why do you think Paul says, "Beyond all these things" or "Over all these virtues" to put on love in v. 14? Why is love the most important virtue to display?

• love transcends all, it is one of the two commandments in the New Testament that we are to obey-- love the Lord with all your heart, and your neighbor as yourself. If we are putting those two into practice, then everything else will fall into place
• in Mike Kelsey's sermon on "Labels" and favoritism, he offered a definition of love that challenged me-- in loving your neighbor as yourself, what would you want to be done for/to you in any certain situation? Go and do that for your neighbor.

V. 15-17:

• emphasis on giving thanks: the concept of giving thanks appears in each verse from 15-17. Everything we do needs to be done in the name of Jesus Christ, but with one extra thing (not to be forgotten!!)-- with thanks and gratitude
• emphasis on "hearts"-- it all begins with the heart, it can transform the mind
• "sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs"-- without knowing it, obeying this can help your daily walk with God by focusing you on Him unconsciously
• let the Word dwell in you richly-- importance of spending time in the Word daily