The position in life of the child of God is, and must always be, found in their union with Christ. Jesus came that we may have life and that we might have it more abundantly. Characteristically in the abundantly. Characteristically in the abundant life, there are Biblical “Put Offs” and “Put Ons”. In Col. 3:8, there is a listing of character traits that are incompatible with the lifestyle of a Christian and must be put off. The Apostle begins with the destructive trait of anger. The Bible tells us to: “Cease from anger, and forsake wrath, fret not thyself in any wise to do evil” (Ps. 37:8). Wrath or rage is physiologically destructive. Heart problems, high blood pressure, ulcers can certainly be associated with rage. The Apostle continues with the listing of “Put Offs”. Malice or Malicious behavior is borne out of a heart of unbelief. “Put off” blasphemy or slander. Jesus in Matthew 15:19, equates blasphemy with other symptoms of spiritual heart disease. Slander is absolutely destructive to the cohesive fiber of the body of Christ.
Lastly, “Put Off” filthy communications (dirty language) out of your mouth. Enough said! “Put Off” the old man with his deeds and “Put On” the new man that is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him. “Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creation: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new” (2 Cor. 5:17). Beginning in verse twelve, we have a listing of “Put Ons”. Here is that listing:
As holy people of God, put on tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Forbearing one another and forgiveness for the person who offends you.
Remember, the Lord forgave you, therefore you must forgive others. And (drum roll) most importantly, put on love. It will lead you into full development and produce the growth into the maturity of godliness.
Be blessed as you “Pull Off” and “Put On”.
Pastor J. Amos Jones
