Being a New Creation Means Exchanging Our Old Life for a New One (Colossians 3)

When was the last time you "turned over a new leaf" in life? Were you successful? Why or why not?

The Bible often says that we who belong to Jesus are "new people." The following questions will help you think about what it means to be a new person.

Read Colossians 3:1-4. This verse instructs us to think about heavenly things instead of earthly things. What "earthly things" are you most likely to think about during the day?

What are "heavenly things" that you don't often think about? How would it improve your life if you spent more time thinking about these things?

Read Colossians 3:5-11. Why do you think Paul used such strong language ("put to death")?

Look at the following list of actions which Paul demanded be killed. When have you seen these types of actions glorified or justified in movies, tv or music?

• Sexual Immorality
• Impurity
• Lust
• Evil Desires
• Greed

In verse 8, Paul encouraged new Christians to get rid of certain behavior. What are some real life examples of the following harmful behaviors?

• Anger
• Rage
• Malice
• Slander
• Filthy Language

How would someone go about killing off or getting rid of these types of behaviors? Which items on these lists do you need to deal with in your life?

Read Colossians 3:12-15. Consider the following list and decide what specific actions you can take to add these positive traits to your life.

• Compassion
• Kindness
• Humility
• Gentleness
• Patience

We embrace our new life by exchanging the old for the new. What old stuff are you going to get rid of this week? What new stuff are you going to put on?