Character of the New Life: Dressed in Christlike Character

 Uniting Heaven and Earth

Christ in Philippians and Colossians 

Living with Christ

Lesson 11 - Wednesday 

Character of the New Life
Read Colossians 3:12–14

When we accept Christ and are raised to new life in Him, our character begins to change. In this passage, the apostle Paul the Apostle describes believers with powerful words: “God’s chosen people, holy and beloved.” These descriptions remind us that our identity in Christ is not based on our past failures or personal achievements, but on God’s gracious calling and love.

Because believers are chosen and loved, they are called to reflect that new identity. Paul says we must “put on” certain qualities—much like putting on clothing. These qualities include compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and forgiveness. They are not random virtues; they are the very character traits that Jesus Himself displayed. Ultimately, Paul says that above all these we must put on love, which binds everything together in perfect unity.

This imagery of putting on new garments is significant. When someone comes to Christ, the old life—marked by selfishness, anger, and pride—is meant to be set aside. In its place, the believer intentionally chooses attitudes that reflect Christ’s character. The Christian life is not merely about avoiding wrong behavior; it is about actively cultivating Christlike virtues.

One of the clearest tests of this new life appears in how we treat difficult people. It is easy to be patient and kind with those who treat us well. The real challenge comes when someone is rude, unfair, or unkind. At that moment, our response reveals whether we are truly wearing the “new garments” Paul describes. Jesus did not only show love to those who loved Him; He showed grace even to those who opposed Him.

When we respond with patience instead of anger, forgiveness instead of bitterness, and kindness instead of retaliation, we represent Christ to the world. People often see the gospel not first through sermons but through the way believers treat others. Every interaction becomes an opportunity to reflect the love of Jesus.

Of course, none of us does this perfectly. We all have moments when our old nature shows itself. Yet the good news is that God continues His work in us. As we stay close to Christ—through prayer, Scripture, and surrender—His Spirit shapes our character more and more into His likeness.

The question we must ask ourselves is simple but searching: How well am I representing Jesus in the way I treat others, especially those who are unkind to me? The answer to that question reveals much about whether we are truly living out the new life we have received.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for calling me Your chosen, holy, and beloved child. Help me to put on the character of Christ each day—compassion, kindness, humility, patience, and forgiveness. Teach me to respond with love even when others treat me poorly. Transform my heart so that my words and actions reflect Jesus to everyone I meet. Let Your love guide my thoughts, my attitudes, and my relationships. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More on Lesson 11: Living with Christ

This Quarter's Sabbath School Lessons Here: Christ in Philippians and Colossians