responsibilities of those raised with christ (colossians 3:1-4)
Introduction:
1. These verses reveal several responsibilities that relate to those who have been raised with Christ. 2. In our study of these verses we will identify: a. those who have been raised with Christ b. the responsibilities given to those who have been raised with Christ. Discussion: I. LET US FIRST IDENTIFY THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN RAISED WITH CHRIST
A. The process of being raised with Christ is explained in Colossians 2:12-13; 3:3. B. A more detailed explanation is given in Romans 6:3-7. C. According to Romans 6:17-18, those raised with Christ become "servants of righteousness." D. As servants of righteousness we are given special responsibilities. II. LET US IDENTIFY THE RESPONSIBILITIES GIVEN TO THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN RAISED WITH CHRIST
A. Positively, those raised with Christ must: 1. seek those things which are above 2. set the affection on things above. B. Negatively, those who have been raised with Christ must not set the affection "on things on the earth." 1. In vs.5-11 a number of "members which are upon the earth" are listed. a. These earthly members are to be mortified and put off. b. We are shown why we must not set our affection upon these earthly members. 2. Vs.5 mentions several earthly members that are to be mortified by those who have been raised with Christ. 3. We learn from vs.6-7 why we must mortify these members. 4. In vs.8-9a additional earthly members are listed that are to be put off. 5. We learn from vs.9b-11 why we must put off these members. 6. Additional passages dealing with these issues: a. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 b. Galatians 5:19-21. 7. Let us keep in mind the words that Jesus prayed on behalf of His apostles (John 17:14-17). C. Those who have been raised with Christ must seek things that are above and set the affection "on things above." 1. In vs.12-14 a number of members from above are listed. a. These members from above are to be put on. b. We are shown why we must put them on. 2. Members from above that we are to put on include mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, forbearance, forgiveness, and love. 3. Those who have been raised with Christ are to put on these members from above because we are: a. "the elect of God" b. "holy and beloved" c. to follow the example of Christ. 4. These issues are also addressed in Galatians 5:22-25. Conclusion:
1. Colossians 3:4 supplies motivation for fulfilling the responsibilities we have studied -- appearing with the Lord in glory when He returns. 2. Have you been raised with Christ? 3. Where are the things you are seeking, and where is your affection? a. Are they "on things on the earth?" b. Are they "on things above?"
