Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Colossians 3:12-17

Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of Colossians 3:12-17

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Colossians 3:12-17 as Paul exhorting the elect of God, chosen in eternity past, to embody the virtues that reflect our union with Christ. These verses are set within the broader context of our sanctification, a process initiated and sustained by sovereign grace. As God's covenant people, we are to 'put on' the characteristics of compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, which are fruits of the Spirit, demonstrating the transformative power of the new covenant established through Christ's atoning work. This passage calls us to live as those who have been brought from darkness into the marvelous light of God's redemptive history, revealing the new humanity in Christ.

Key Language Decisions

The Greek term 'ἐκλεκτοί' (eklektoi) in verse 12, meaning 'chosen' or 'elect', underscores our understanding of God's sovereign election. This election is not based on foreseen faith but on God's sovereign will and good pleasure. The term 'ἀγάπη' (agapē) in verse 14, translated as 'love', is seen as the supreme virtue that binds all others together in perfect harmony, reflecting the bond of peace within the covenant community.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike Arminian or Wesleyan traditions, which might emphasize human cooperation in sanctification, we affirm that sanctification is a work of sovereign grace, initiated and sustained by God. Whereas some traditions may interpret 'putting on' virtues as a human-initiated effort, we see it as the outworking of the Spirit's regenerating power in the elect, ensuring that sanctification is monergistic rather than synergistic.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we emphasize the assurance that comes from recognizing our identity as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved. This assurance fuels our pursuit of godliness, not out of fear of losing salvation, but as a response to God's unwavering grace. We encourage the congregation to see their sanctification as a corporate journey, where each member is called to bear with one another and forgive as the Lord has forgiven us. The peace of Christ ruling in our hearts is not merely an individual experience but a communal reality, reflecting the unity and love within the covenant community.

Cross-References: Ephesians 4:1-3; 1 Peter 2:9-10; Romans 8:29-30; Galatians 5:22-23; Philippians 2:1-4

Doctrinal Connections: sovereign grace; covenant of grace; sanctification; union with Christ; the church as the body of Christ