This sermon continues Paul’s argument in Colossians by turning from the identity of Christ to the identity of the believer. Scripture ultimately defines every person in one of two ways: dead in sin or alive in Christ.
Paul reminds the church that they were once alienated from God, hostile in mind, and guilty of evil deeds. Because of sin, humanity stands separated from its Creator and deserving of judgment. Reconciliation was necessary, and it was accomplished through the death of Jesus Christ, who took on human flesh in order to bear the punishment that sinners deserved.
Through Christ’s work on the cross, believers are given a new identity. Those who were once enemies of God are now presented holy, blameless, and above reproach. This righteousness is not earned, but credited through faith, as Christ’s obedience is counted to the believer while their sin is placed upon Him.
The Christian life, however, is marked by endurance. Paul teaches that those who truly belong to Christ will continue in the faith, remaining grounded in the gospel and not turning aside to false hopes. True conversion results in a changed identity and a life that increasingly reflects obedience to Christ.
This passage calls believers to remember who they once were, to rejoice in what Christ has done, and to live in a way that reflects their new identity in Him.
