Today, we gathered around a challenging but life-giving call from Colossians 3: to “put to death” whatever belongs to our earthly nature. This isn’t about legalism or a list of rules, but about living out the reality that our lives are now hidden with Christ. When we choose to follow Jesus, it’s not just about adding Him to our lives—it’s about dying to self and letting Him become our life. The world tells us to chase our desires, to do whatever feels good, but the gospel calls us to something radically different: to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things, and to actively deny ourselves for the sake of true joy and freedom.
We all have an earthly nature—selfishness is hardwired into us. No one has to teach a child to be selfish; it comes naturally. The problem is, when we live as the center of our own universe, we’re often the last to realize it. Paul gives us a list—sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed (which is idolatry)—not to shame us, but to help us see what needs to be put to death. These aren’t just “bad behaviors”; they’re symptoms of a deeper problem: living for self instead of for Christ.
Why does God care so much about these things? Because He loves us. Sin isn’t just “fun stuff” God says no to; it’s destructive stuff He warns us against. The wrath of God is coming, not because He’s mean, but because He’s holy and loving—He knows what sin does to us and to those around us. Our culture tells us that happiness comes from self-fulfillment, but the data—and our own experience—show that the more we chase self, the less satisfied we become.
So how do we put these things to death? First, we need a plan. Most of our worst mistakes aren’t premeditated; they happen because we didn’t plan not to sin. Second, we need to take action—respond to what God is stirring in us. Third, we need to do this daily. Denying self isn’t a one-time event; it’s a daily decision, a daily surrender. And finally, we need to remember that this isn’t about willpower, but about Christ in us. He is enough. He gives us the strength to deny ourselves, to starve our sinful desires, and to walk in freedom. Spiritual maturity means recognizing that our walk is unique, and that God will show each of us what needs to be put to death. The invitation is open: make a move, trust Him, and experience the life you were created for.
Colossians 3:1-8 (ESV) — 1 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
4 When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
5 Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
6 On account of these the wrath of God is coming.
7 In these you too once walked, when you were living in them.
8 But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.
Luke 9:23 (ESV) — And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
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