Colossians 3:12
As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, put on compassion, kindness, humility, meekness and patience.
Put on therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, humility, and perseverance;
What Colossians 3:12 means
The instruction is framed by identity: *as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved*. You dress according to who you already are, which is why Paul names the status before the wardrobe.
‘Put on’ suggests daily, deliberate action rather than a change of personality. The five qualities listed are all relational — they only exist in how you treat people. The verses following add bearing with one another and forgiving as the Lord forgave you.
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Questions about Colossians 3:12
What does Colossians 3:12 mean?
It calls believers, on the basis of being chosen, holy and loved by God, to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Why does Paul use clothing imagery?
Because it implies daily, deliberate choice. These qualities are put on like garments rather than waited for as feelings — and they suit the identity the verse names first.