Putting on Christ is like wearing a bright cloak in darkness. Just like a cloak covers and protects us, Christ’s presence surrounds us and changes who we are. This cloak does more than keep us safe—it shines, showing the way for us and the people around us. When we walk covered in Christ, His light pushes away the darkness of wayward life, helping us live in a good way of love and service for all and showing His love to a world that needs hope and warmth.
Paul’s command to “put on Christ” invites us to embrace a new identity in Him, much like wearing a garment that reflects our true self. In Galatians 3:27, Paul says, “For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” This means we are no longer defined by our past but by Christ’s righteousness. To “put on Christ” is to take on His character and live as new creations.
This is not just an outward change but an inner transformation. In Ephesians 4:22-24, Paul reminds us to “put off the old self” and be renewed in our minds. It’s a daily journey of surrender to the Holy Spirit, who reshapes our thoughts and desires to reflect Christ.
Paul also calls us to live in holiness. Colossians 3:12-14 encourages us to “put on compassion, kindness, humility, and love.” These Christ-like virtues must shape our interactions, bearing witness to the Gospel in a world desperate for love and justice.
Putting on Christ also means resisting the flesh. Galatians 5:16 tells us to “walk by the Spirit” so we do not gratify the desires of the flesh. This battle is fought with the strength of the Holy Spirit, not by our own power. By putting on Christ, we reflect His love and grace to others, allowing His life and Spirit to transform us and shine His light to the world.