Col 3:10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. (ESV)
As believers our life is hidden with Christ (vs 3). Our old self, who we are apart from Christ, has been put off (vs 9) and crucified (Romans 6). We are new creations in Christ (2Corinthians 5:17). But there is also a sense in which the new creation is a process. Colossians 3:10 tells us that the new self "is being renewed." Notice three things in this verse. First, the new self is in process. The Christian life is not just about the event of faith, i.e. trusting Christ as our savior. It is also about the process of faith. Disciples are not made overnight.
Second, notice that the new self is being renewed in knowledge. The word is actually "full knowledge." Walking with Christ is primarily a truth battle not a power struggle. What we know and believe affects what we experience. Following Christ us not about trying harder. It is about knowing and believing.
Third, notice that the new self is being renewed "after the image of its creator." When the Church split between east and west around 1054AD, theologically the western church had focused on the legal aspects if salvation. Jesus death satisfied the righteous justice of God. The eastern church focused on the need for the restoration of the image of God in man. Biblically both are true. As a fallen people who had been created in the image of God that image had been severely damaged. The death and resurrection of Christ, by satisfying the justice of God, not only saves us, but also begins the process of restoring in us the image of God.
When Colossians 3:2 tells us to set our mind on things above it is this image of God the passage is taking about. Father, by your grace restore your image in me. Teach me what I need to know and may I truly believe you. Thank you that you are faithfully recreating your image in me through Christ.
By His grace,
Rick Weinert
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