Black Church Tradition Lens Commentary: Colossians 3:12-14

Black Church Tradition Lens Reading of Colossians 3:12-14

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage in Colossians 3:12-14 as a clarion call to embody the beloved community, clothed in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. This is a mandate to live in the Spirit's anointing, reflecting the image of God in our relationships. The imperative to forgive as the Lord forgave us resonates deeply with our history of overcoming oppression and finding freedom through forgiveness and love, even in the face of systemic injustice. Above all, love binds us together, assuring us that our liberation and salvation are found in communal unity, not individualism.

Key Language Decisions

The Greek word 'agape' used here for love emphasizes an unconditional, sacrificial commitment, which aligns with our tradition's view of love as liberating and community-building. The term 'enduo,' translated as 'clothe yourselves,' implies an intentional, active participation in embodying these virtues, resonating with our call to live out deliverance daily. The tradition emphasizes the active voice of these commands, seeing them as calls to action in our struggle for justice and hope.

Where Traditions Diverge

This tradition differs from more individualistic readings found in some evangelical circles that focus solely on personal morality without addressing systemic injustice. While some traditions might emphasize personal piety, our reading insists that true holiness cannot be separated from justice and communal solidarity. We diverge from interpretations that overlook the socio-political implications of embodying these virtues in the struggle against oppression.

Pastoral Application

A pastor in our tradition would emphasize that this passage calls us to live as a community marked by the virtues of compassion and forgiveness, engaging in the work of liberation and justice. We would preach that our identity in Christ empowers us to resist dehumanizing systems and to build the beloved community where everyone is valued as an image-bearer of God. Our congregations expect to hear that love is the most potent force for transformation, binding us together in the struggle for freedom and hope, assured that we are covered by the blood of Jesus in this journey.

Cross-References: Micah 6:8; Luke 4:18; John 13:34-35; 1 John 4:7-12; Galatians 5:22-23

Doctrinal Connections: beloved community; liberation and hope; communal salvation; image of God; prophetic witness; holistic salvation