“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12
The Call to Put on Christ
Putting on Christ is not just a suggestion but a divine command. We are invited into a relationship with Jesus, and that relationship transforms who we are. As we choose to follow Him, we actively put on His characteristics, reflecting His love and kindness. This call encourages us to become more than mere believers; it prompts us to embody His essence. Each time we interact with others, we can choose to display the heart of Christ through our actions. Putting on Christ means shedding our old selves and embracing the new identity we have in Him, demonstrating a life transformed by His love.
Galatians 3:27
“For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” – Galatians 3:27
Romans 13:14
“Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.” – Romans 13:14
Ephesians 4:24
“And to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” – Ephesians 4:24
Colossians 3:10
“And have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.” – Colossians 3:10
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
The Attributes of Christ
When we consider putting on Christ, we must recognize the attributes that define Him. His love, humility, and gentleness are some of the qualities we should reflect in our lives. As we embrace these attributes, we will naturally bring Christ’s light to a world in need. Our goal is not just to act like Christians but to embody the very essence of who Christ is. Through His attributes, we find the strength to face challenges, the grace to forgive, and the courage to love even when it is difficult. By allowing His attributes to shape our lives, we truly become reflections of His character.
Philippians 2:5
“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 2:5
1 John 2:6
“Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.” – 1 John 2:6
Ephesians 5:1-2
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” – Ephesians 5:1-2
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2
Colossians 3:14
“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” – Colossians 3:14
Living by Faith
Putting on Christ also calls us to a life of faith. We must trust in Him completely, moving beyond mere knowledge of Him to a genuine relationship. Faith is not a collection of religious practices but rather a way of life. By trusting Him, we can truly embody the essence of Christ, illuminating our relationship with others. Living by faith requires us to lean not on our own understanding but on His truth and promises. As we walk each day with faith in our hearts, we consistently put on Christ and share His love with the world.
Romans 1:17
“For in the gospel, the righteousness of God is revealed – a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’” – Romans 1:17
2 Corinthians 5:7
“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1
Ephesians 2:8-9
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” – Ephesians 2:8-9
Galatians 2:20
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” – Galatians 2:20
The Power of Transformation
Putting on Christ encompasses a powerful transformation in our lives. The act of coming to Christ is not merely a decision; it is an opportunity for God to work within us to change our hearts, minds, and lives. This transformation allows us to mature spiritually and become more Christ-like in our thoughts and actions. By yielding to His work in us, we embrace a new way of living that transcends our former selves. This divine transformation is a gift that keeps on giving, allowing us to grow and flourish in His presence.
2 Corinthians 3:18
“And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” – 2 Corinthians 3:18
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2
Titus 3:5
“He saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.” – Titus 3:5
Philippians 1:6
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:6
Ephesians 2:10
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10
The Community of Faith
When we put on Christ, it affects not only our individuality but also our community. Living in a Christ-centered community allows us to uplift each other and grow together in faith. We come together as believers to share our gifts, support one another, and collectively reflect the character of Christ. The love we display within our community becomes a testimony of God’s grace and mercy. By surrounding ourselves with fellow believers, we can encourage each other to continually put on Christ and shine brightly in a world that desperately needs His love.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
1 Corinthians 12:12
“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 12:12
Ephesians 4:16
“From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” – Ephesians 4:16
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” – Colossians 3:16
Living Out His Love
Pursuing a life that reflects Christ means actively engaging in love. Love stands as the hallmark of our faith, marking us as His followers. When we put on Christ, our hearts should overflow with love for others, driving us to take action. This love compels us to serve, forgive, and reach out to those around us. It is through living out His love that we truly shine as lights in a darkened world. Each act of love is a beautiful representation of Christ’s love for us, and we can be His hands and feet wherever we go.
John 13:34-35
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.” – John 13:34-35
1 John 4:19
“We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
Galatians 5:13
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
Ephesians 5:2
“And walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” – Ephesians 5:2
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the idea of putting on Christ, we realize it is a powerful call to transformation, love, and community. By embracing our identity in Him and choosing to embody His attributes, we are drawn closer to our purpose as followers of Christ. Our faith is not just a personal matter; it is meant to be shared through our relationships and actions. The journey invites us to cultivate a life characterized by love, humility, and faith as we actively put on Christ each day.
Our hearts should desire to be filled with His love and grace, leading us to shine brightly in our surroundings. By living out our faith together, we can encourage one another and build a community that reflects the love of Christ. I encourage you to continue exploring different aspects of your relationship with Him. You might find joy in discovering more about the fullness in Christ or the foundation in Christ.
Together, we can grow and support one another in this beautiful journey of faith.