Colossians 3:8

Context

Colossians 3:8 is part of a significant section in Paul's letter to the Colossians where he transitions from theological instruction to practical Christian living. Having established that believers are "risen with Christ" and have died to their old sinful nature (Colossians 3:1-4), Paul exhorts them to live in accordance with this new identity. Verses 5-7 list immoral behaviors associated with the "old man" or "earthly members" that are to be "mortified" or put to death. Verse 8 continues this theme, shifting focus to destructive attitudes and forms of speech that are incompatible with the renewed life in Christ.

Key Themes and Messages

• Radical Transformation of Character: The verse emphasizes the necessity of a complete change in disposition and behavior for those who are in Christ. It's not just about avoiding certain actions, but about shedding the very attitudes that lead to them.
• Sins of Speech and Attitude: Paul specifically targets internal emotions (anger, wrath, malice) and their outward manifestations through destructive language (blasphemy, filthy communication). This highlights the profound impact of our words and inner state on our spiritual walk and relationships.
• The "Putting Off" Imagery: The phrase "put off" uses the analogy of shedding old, soiled garments. This implies a deliberate, conscious act of discarding these ungodly traits, much like one would remove dirty clothes to put on clean ones. This contrasts with the positive "putting on" of virtues mentioned later in Colossians 3:12.
• Living Out the New Identity: The call to abandon these vices is rooted in the believer's new status as a "new creation" in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). These old ways belong to a former life that has been crucified with Christ, and therefore, they have no place in the life of someone who is now spiritually alive in Him.

Linguistic Insights

• "Put off" (KJV) / "Lay aside" (ESV): The Greek word is apotithemi (ἀποτίθημι), meaning literally "to lay aside" or "to strip off." It conveys a decisive and intentional action of discarding something that is no longer needed or wanted.
• "Anger": From the Greek orgē (ὀργή), referring to a deep-seated, settled indignation or wrath, often with a sense of vengeance or punishment.
• "Wrath": From the Greek thymos (θυμός), which signifies a more volatile, passionate outburst of rage, a sudden heat of anger that can quickly subside, but is nonetheless destructive. Paul includes both terms to emphasize the comprehensive rejection of hostile emotions.
• "Malice": The Greek kakia (κακία) denotes general ill-will, depravity, or a desire to harm others, often leading to destructive actions.
• "Blasphemy": The Greek blasphēmia (βλασφημία) refers to abusive speech, slander, or reviling, whether directed against God or against other people.
• "Filthy communication": The Greek aischrologia (αἰσχρολογία) points to obscene, shameful, or abusive language; indecent talk or vulgarity.

Practical Application

Colossians 3:8 serves as a powerful reminder for believers today to constantly examine their inner attitudes and outward expressions. It challenges us to:

• Self-Examine: Honestly assess if "anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, or filthy communication" are present in our lives, either subtly or overtly.
• Actively Discard: Recognize that shedding these negative traits is not passive. It requires a deliberate, daily decision to "put them off" through the power of the Holy Spirit. This involves repentance, seeking forgiveness, and intentionally cultivating godly alternatives.
• Guard Our Tongues: Understand the immense power of words. Our speech should reflect our new nature in Christ, bringing edification and grace rather than destruction, as also taught in Ephesians 4:29.
• Live Consistently: Strive for consistency between our professed faith and our daily conduct. The call to "put off" these vices is an ongoing process of sanctification, aligning our lives with the holiness of God.