Col. 3: 1 – 14

Text: Since you have been raised with Christ…” v.1

Introduction:
The Word “Since” has an implication
Worthy of note that it is not ‘If’ (in NIV) - meaning uncertainty. OR “when”
meaning probability
But in this case, it is an affirmation that we are already raised with Christ
Illustration – Certification of marriage, even before marriage experience
The instruction then follows:
1. Set your hearts and minds on things above v. 1 & 2
2. Put to death things of earthly nature
What then is the characteristics of the Resurrected Life?
(You have the summary in your bulletin, but consider the following:

1. It is a purposeful life  
 v.1 – “Since”
Remember,  Jesus purposefully appeared to people when he rose from the dead.
a. He appeared to Thomas purposefully
Read (i) John 11:16  (ii) John 14:5 (iii) John 20: 24 – 28
Why did Jesus appear to Thomas?
- To remove his doubt
- To convince him of is resurrection
- To lead him to commitment
The purpose of our being raised with Christ is that we are to set our heart and mind on Christ.

2. It is a life of obedience  
Read v.1 & 2 and then v.8
“Rid yourselves…
Note the Word “MUST”
Also read Eph 4:22  
Anger
Rage
Malice
Slander
Filthy language
Filthy life
Filthy relationship
Filthy deals
etc
Paul in Gal. 5:19-21 will call it works of the flesh

3. It is a life of Holiness  
Read v. 5 and v. 12  
The instruction is:
“Put to death therefore…” v.5
“Clothe yourself…” v.12
Holiness is simply living the life of Christ in an unholy world. It is the evidence of being sanctified, that is, the process of being cleansed on daily basis.

4. It is a life of practical service
Read v. 12
Note the words, “God’s chosen people…”
Characterized by holiness and love
Be clothed with:
Compassion
Kindness
Humility
Gentleness
Patience
Love
Peace
etc
These are all principles of relationship
Without them manifesting in a believer’s life, he cannot be said to have risen with Christ

Conclusion:
Check your bulletin to see the summary of resurrected life.
(the Pastoral Word)
THE RESURRECTED LIFE:
Is a (sincere) Christian Life
Is a consecrated and committed life
Is a consistent life
Is a conscientious life
Is a calculated life
Is a caring life
Is a careful life
Are you truly resurrected?