Meaning of Colossians 3:7

This verse from Colossians 3:7 serves as a stark reminder of the believer's past existence before embracing the transformative power of Christ. Paul, writing to the church in Colossae, is addressing their former way of life, characterized by sin and alienation from God. The phrase "walk in these ways" signifies a habitual pattern of behavior, a lifestyle that was deeply ingrained. This "life you once lived" refers to their pre-conversion state, a period marked by spiritual death and conformity to the world's corrupt values, as detailed in the preceding verses of chapter 3. The emphasis is on a definitive break from this former identity, a shedding of the old self to embrace a new one in Christ.

Context and Background

Colossians 3 is part of Paul's exhortation to the believers in Colossae to live a life consistent with their new identity in Christ. Having already established Christ's supremacy and sufficiency in chapter 1 and the dangers of false teachings in chapter 2, Paul now moves to practical, ethical instructions. He urges them to "put to death" the sinful desires and practices associated with their old, unregenerate nature (Colossians 3:5-7). This verse, therefore, acts as a bridge, explicitly naming the previous conduct that needs to be renounced. The "these ways" likely allude to the list of sins mentioned in verse 5, such as sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which Paul equates with idolatry.

Key Themes and Messages

The primary theme is the definitive break from a sinful past. The verse highlights the reality of a former life lived under the dominion of sin. It underscores the transformative power of faith in Christ, implying that a new life is now possible and expected. Another key message is the importance of remembrance, not for the sake of dwelling on past sin, but for recognizing the profound change that has occurred and the ongoing need to resist old habits. The emphasis is on a holistic change that affects one's entire way of living – their "walk."

Spiritual Significance and Application

For the believer, this verse is a call to conscious renunciation of sin. It serves as a diagnostic tool, prompting self-examination to identify any lingering vestiges of the "old self" that may still be influencing their behavior. The spiritual significance lies in understanding that salvation is not merely an intellectual assent but a radical reorientation of one's life. Application involves actively pursuing holiness, mortifying sinful desires, and consciously choosing to walk in the newness of life that Christ provides, as detailed in the verses that follow.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This concept of a former life of sin contrasted with a new life in righteousness is a recurring motif throughout Scripture. From Adam and Eve's fall and the subsequent corrupted human nature to God's covenant with Israel and the prophetic calls for repentance, the Bible consistently portrays humanity's struggle with sin and God's provision for redemption. The New Testament, particularly Paul's epistles, elaborates on this theme through the doctrine of regeneration and sanctification. Colossians 3:7 fits within this grand narrative of redemption and transformation, showing how God rescues individuals from their bondage to sin and empowers them to live lives pleasing to Him.

Analogies

One analogy for "walking in these ways" is that of a well-worn path. Before conversion, a person might be accustomed to a particular path, a familiar route of sinful behaviors, even if it leads to destruction. The verse calls for leaving that path entirely and embarking on a new one. Another analogy is that of shedding an old skin. A snake sheds its old, restrictive skin to allow for growth and freedom. Similarly, believers are called to shed their old sinful nature to embrace the new life in Christ.

Relation to Other Verses

Colossians 3:7 resonates with numerous other biblical passages.

• Romans 6:4: "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." This verse parallels the idea of a new life emerging from a past death.
• Ephesians 4:22-24: "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." This passage directly echoes the sentiment of shedding the old and embracing the new.
• 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" This verse powerfully encapsulates the radical transformation implied by Colossians 3:7.
• 1 Peter 4:3: "For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles are bent on doing, living in licentiousness, passions, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry." This verse from Peter further illuminates the nature of the "life you once lived" by listing similar Gentile practices.