Colossians 3:12-17

Colossians 3:12-17

[12] Put on  therefore,  as  the elect  of God,  holy  and  beloved,  bowels  of mercies,  kindness,  humbleness of mind,  longsuffering;  [13] Forbearing  one another,  and  forgiving  one another,  if  any man  have  a quarrel  against  any:  even as  forgave  so  also  [14] And  above  all  put on charity,  the bond  of perfectness.  [15] And  the peace  rule  in  hearts,  to  the which  also  ye are called  in  one  body;  and  be ye  thankful.  [16] the word  of Christ  dwell  in  richly  in  all  wisdom;  teaching  and  admonishing  one another  in psalms  and  hymns  and  spiritual  songs,  singing  with  grace  in  hearts  [17] And  in  word  or  deed,  do all  in  the name  of the Lord  Jesus,  giving thanks  to God  and  the Father  by  him. 

What does Colossians 3:12-17 Mean?

Contextual Meaning

Paul urged his readers not only to divest themselves of behavior that is inappropriate to their union with Christ but also to clothe themselves with attitudes and actions that are appropriate. He did so to complete their understanding of their responsibilities as Christians.
"The emphasis in this section is on motives. Why should we put off the old deeds and put on the qualities of the new life? Paul explained four motives that ought to encourage us to walk in newness of life ( Romans 6:4)." [1]
". . . I have written a message on this passage of Scripture, and I have called it, "What the Well-Dressed Christian Will Wear This Year."" [2]