Paul Connects Doctrine With Duty

Commentary

Paul attempts to connect doctrine with duty in this passage. He lists the following:
 

1. Who we are in Christ (verses 1-4)
   1. We are raised with Christ (vv. 1-2)
   2. We died with Christ (v. 3a)
   3. We are hidden in Christ (v. 3b)
   4. We live in Christ (v. 4a)
   5. We are glorified in Christ (v. 4b)
2. What we need to get rid of in the flesh (verses 5-9)
   1. Fornication – sexual immorality in general(v. 
   2. Uncleanness – lustful and loose living (v. 5)
   3. Inordinate affection – state of mind that excites sexual impurity (v. 5)
   4. Evil concupiscence – a strong desire for evil (v. 5)
   5. Covetousness – a desire to get anything that belongs to another (v. 5).
   6. Wrath/Anger – attitude to take vengeance (vv. 6-7)
   7. Malice – an attitude of ill will (v. 8)
   8. Blasphemy – speaking disrespectfully and of divine things (v. 8)
   9. Filthy communication – course or obscene language (v. 8)
   10. Lying – change facts with the intention to deceive (v. 9)
3. Expect change (v. 10). We are a new person in Christ and should become more like Him.
4. Not to be partial to race or background (v. 11). Christ who lives in us is all that matters.

Application

The things that I need to get rid of in the flesh must be put to death and removed from my life.