Lutheran Lens Commentary: Colossians 3:12-14

## Lutheran Lens Reading of Colossians 3:12-14

### Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Colossians 3:12-14 as a text that primarily speaks to our baptismal identity in Christ. As those who have been chosen and beloved by God, we are called to put on virtues that reflect our new life in Christ. This passage serves as both Law and Gospel: Law in that it shows us the high standard of holy living that we fail to meet, and Gospel in that it reminds us of the unconditional love and forgiveness we have received in Christ, which empowers us to live according to these virtues. The call to love, which binds everything together, is understood in light of Christ's love for us, which covers our sin and enables us to love others.

### Key Language Decisions