Traditional Lens Commentary: Colossians 3:12-14

Traditional Lens Reading of Colossians 3:12-14

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Colossians 3:12-14 as an exhortation to the elect of God to embody Christ-like virtues as evidence of their transformation through the gospel. This passage calls us to put on qualities such as compassion and humility, reflecting the new nature we have in Christ, and is rooted in our identity as God's chosen, holy, and beloved people. The emphasis on love as the bond of perfection aligns with our understanding of sanctification, where believers are progressively conformed to the image of Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek, the word 'ἐκλεκτοί' (eklektoi) meaning 'chosen' or 'elect' emphasizes God's sovereign choice in salvation, aligning with our doctrine of election. The phrase 'ἐνδύσασθε' (endysasthe), translated as 'put on,' conveys the intentionality of adopting these virtues, much like putting on a garment, highlighting our active role in sanctification. This tradition emphasizes the imperative nature of these virtues as part of the believer’s response to God’s grace.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike some traditions that might emphasize a broader spiritual formation concept, we stress the necessity of these virtues as evidence of genuine faith and sanctification, rooted in the doctrine of election. This contrasts with traditions like Roman Catholicism, which may integrate these virtues into a framework of sacramental grace, or liberal theology, which might interpret them as ethical ideals separate from divine election.

Pastoral Application

As pastors, we are to encourage our congregations to actively pursue these virtues as a response to the new identity in Christ. Preaching this passage involves calling believers to live distinctively in a way that reflects the transformative power of the gospel. Our emphasis on love as the bond of perfection should inspire a commitment to unity and peace within the church, demonstrating the reality of Christ's work in us. A Traditional Lens congregation would expect to hear about the necessity of embodying these virtues as evidence of authentic faith and a witness to the world.

Cross-References: Ephesians 4:1-3; Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Peter 2:9; Romans 13:14; Philippians 2:1-5

Doctrinal Connections: sanctification; the elect; the image of God; the fruit of the Spirit; unity of the Church