What does it mean to be "renewed in knowledge" according to Colossians 3:10? Setting the Stage • Colossians 3:9-10: “Do not lie to one another, since you have taken off the old self with its practices, 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.” • Paul is speaking to believers who have already “put on” the new self at conversion. Renewal is ongoing, not a one-time event. • The false teachers at Colossae promised secret wisdom; Paul points believers to true, Spirit-given knowledge that shapes life and character. Defining “Renewed in Knowledge” • “Renewed” (Greek anakainoō) – made fresh again, continuously renovated. • “Knowledge” (epignōsis) – full, experiential knowledge, not mere data. • Together: a continuous, Spirit-powered renovation of the mind so believers increasingly view God, themselves, and the world as Scripture reveals. How the Renewal Happens 1. The Holy Spirit applies the Word to the heart (John 14:26). 2. Scripture saturates the mind, correcting old thought patterns (2 Timothy 3:16-17). 3. Obedience reinforces truth; practice strengthens perception (John 7:17). 4. Fellowship and teaching sharpen understanding (Acts 2:42). 5. Trials drive believers to depend on revealed truth rather than feelings (James 1:2-4). The Goal: Conformed to the Creator’s Image • Colossians 3:10 links renewal “in knowledge” with “the image of its Creator.” • Other passages: – Romans 8:29: “predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.” – 2 Corinthians 3:18: “We all… are being transformed into His image from glory to glory.” • Renewal restores what sin marred—thinking, values, and affections that reflect God’s holiness and truth. Related Passages That Clarify the Process • Romans 12:2 – “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” • Ephesians 4:22-24 – “Put off your former way of life… be renewed in the spirit of your minds… put on the new self.” • Colossians 1:9-10 – being “filled with the knowledge of His will” leads to a life “bearing fruit in every good work and growing in the knowledge of God.” • 2 Peter 3:18 – “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Practical Outworkings in Daily Life • Truth replaces deception—hence the immediate command, “Do not lie.” • Old prejudices give way to unity (Colossians 3:11). • Compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, and love flow out naturally (3:12-14). • Peace rules the heart; gratitude fills the mouth (3:15). • The word of Christ dwells richly, shaping conversations, worship, and family life (3:16-17). Living the Renewed Life • Daily intake of Scripture—read, meditate, memorize. • Pray the text back to God, asking the Spirit to illuminate and apply. • Replace ungodly media with Christ-honoring content. • Seek accountability; discuss what you’re learning with mature believers. • Act promptly on new insights—obedience cements renewal. |
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