Colossians 3:10

And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

Colossians 3:10 (KJV)

Context

Colossians is one of the letters written by the Apostle Paul. It was addressed to the church in Colossae, a city in Asia Minor. In this letter, Paul emphasizes the supremacy of Christ and instructs believers on how to live in a manner worthy of the gospel. The immediate setting of this verse contrasts the old self with the new self, urging believers to put off the old and put on the new.

Meaning

In Colossians 3:10, Paul speaks about putting on the “new man.” This refers to the spiritual transformation that takes place when a person becomes a believer in Christ. The “new man” represents the new nature we receive through our union with Christ. It is a metaphor for the renewed self, characterized by righteousness and holiness. The Greek text uses a participle meaning “having put on,” indicating an intentional and active choice on the part of the believer.

Paul further explains that this new man is “renewed in knowledge.” This knowledge refers to an understanding of who Christ is and what He has accomplished for us. It is not merely intellectual knowledge but an experiential knowledge that transforms our hearts and minds. The Greek wording suggests a continuous, ongoing renewal that is directed toward true knowledge—a deep, relational knowledge of God and His will. This renewal happens as we grow in our relationship with Christ and become more like Him.

The new man is renewed in knowledge after the image of God, who created him. Here, Paul refers to the image of God in which humanity was originally created. Through Christ, we are being restored to that image, which was marred by sin. As believers, we are being transformed to reflect the character of God, becoming more like Christ in our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. This renewal is a daily process: as the outward man decays, the inward man is renewed day by day, increasing in holiness and righteousness.

Biblical connections

This verse parallels Ephesians 4:24, where the new man is described as “created after God in righteousness and true holiness.” Together, these passages show that the renewed soul is imparted knowledge and is made in that respect as man was when first created, proving that before the fall, man was endowed with knowledge.

Application

Colossians 3:10 encourages believers to live out their new identity in Christ. It reminds us that we are no longer bound by our old sinful nature but have been made new. We are called to continually grow in our knowledge of Christ, allowing His truth to shape our lives. This includes aligning our thoughts, words, and actions with His character and seeking to imitate Him in all we do. This transformation is not passive; believers are called to actively put on the new self and grow in the knowledge of Christ, resulting in a life that honours and glorifies God.

Reflection

Colossians 3:10 teaches us about the new man we become through our faith in Christ. This new man is renewed in knowledge and transformed to reflect the image of God. It challenges us to live in accordance with our new identity and continually grow in our understanding of Christ. By doing so, we can experience true spiritual renewal and live a life that honours and glorifies God.