and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Colossians 3:10
What does Colossians 3:10 mean?
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Colossians 3:10
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The renewal of this "new self" isn't just about knowing more things, but about a deep, transformative knowledge specifically of the Creator. This knowledge is the very essence of the image of God we were originally made to reflect.
and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is building on his argument that believers have died with Christ and are now alive in Him. He's just urged them to put off their old, sinful ways and behaviors. Now, he's explaining the positive side: they've "put on" a new identity in Christ that is actively being transformed to reflect their Creator. This transformation is an ongoing process, aiming for a renewed understanding and resemblance to God.
Have you ever felt like you're starting fresh, but old habits keep creeping back? The Christian life is a profound transition, not just a minor adjustment.
Paul uses the powerful imagery of 'putting off' the old self and 'putting on' the new self. This isn't about gradually improving your old nature; it's a radical exchange.
Shifting Identity
The 'old man' represents your pre-conversion identity, characterized by sinful desires and actions (Colossians 3:5-9). It's like shedding an old, worn-out coat. The 'new man' is your new identity in Christ, a spiritual rebirth that fundamentally changes who you are. This new identity isn't just a new set of rules; it's a new life breathed into you.
A Continuous Process
While the act of 'putting on' the new self is a decisive moment, the verse emphasizes that this new self is 'being renewed.' This tells us that transformation is an ongoing journey. It's not a one-time event but a continuous process of growth and re-creation throughout our lives.
What does it truly mean to be made 'in the image of its creator'? It's more than just a vague resemblance; it's a deep, spiritual restoration.
The core of this new identity is renewal. This renewal happens specifically 'in knowledge' and is directed 'after the image of its creator.'
Knowledge as Restoration
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This isn't just about accumulating facts. The 'knowledge' mentioned here is a deep, God-centered understanding – knowing God Himself. It's the antidote to the ignorance that characterized the pre-Christian life. As you grow in this divine knowledge, your mind and perspective are transformed.
Reflecting the Creator
Our goal in this renewal is to become like God, reflecting His character. The original 'image of God' in humanity was marred by sin. Now, through Christ, this image is being restored. It means reflecting God's truth, righteousness, and holiness. This restoration is the ultimate purpose of our transformation, guiding us back to our intended design.
Understand the original words
neos anthrōpos · Greek Noun Phrase
The new nature given to a believer through union with Christ. It is a radical transformation of the inner man, created to reflect the character and holiness of God.
anakainoutai · Greek Verb
An ongoing process of spiritual transformation where the Holy Spirit continually conforms the believer’s mind, will, and character to be more like Christ.
epignōsis · Greek Noun
An experiential, relational, and transformative understanding of God and His truth. It is not mere intellectual assent but a deep, personal knowledge that shapes the life of the believer.
eikōn · Greek Noun
The representation or manifestation of God in human form; as believers are renewed, they are progressively restored to bear the character and moral likeness of God, their Maker.
This passage describes God creating humanity in His own image, directly paralleling the idea in Colossians of the new self being renewed after the Creator's image.
Romans 12:2This verse speaks of being transformed by the renewal of your mind, which echoes the Colossians theme of renewal and transformation into God's likeness.
Ephesians 4:24Paul uses similar language here, stating that believers are created in God's image in righteousness and true holiness, which aligns with the renewal of the new self in knowledge.
2 Corinthians 4:16This passage contrasts the outward decay with the inward renewal of believers, emphasizing that the 'inner self' is being renewed day by day, a concept that resonates with the 'new self' being continuously renewed.
1 John 3:2This verse describes believers as God's children now, and that when Christ appears, they will be like Him, reflecting the ultimate fulfillment of being made in the Creator's image.
henryColossians 3:5-11: "Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:"
3:5-11 It is our duty to mortify our members which incline to the things of the world. Mortify them, kill them, suppress them, as weeds or vermin which spread and destroy all about them. Continual opposition must be made to all corrupt workings, and no provision made for carnal indulgences. Occasions of sin must be…
barnesColossians 3:10: "And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:"
Which is renewed in knowledge - In Ephesians 4:24 , it is said that the new man is "created after God in righteousness and true holiness." In this place it is added that to the renewed soul knowledge is imparted, and it is made in that respect as man was when he was first created. This passage, in connection with Ephesians 4:24 , proves that before man fell he was endowed with…
The renewal of this "new self" isn't just about knowing more things, but about a deep, transformative knowledge specifically of the Creator. This knowledge is the very essence of the image of God we were originally made to reflect.
Paul is building on his argument that believers have died with Christ and are now alive in Him. He's just urged them to put off their old, sinful ways and behaviors. Now, he's explaining the positive side: they've "put on" a new identity in Christ that is actively being transformed to reflect their Creator. This transformation is an ongoing process, aiming for a renewed understanding and resemblance to God.
Paul is building on his argument that believers have died with Christ and are now alive in Him. He's just urged them to put off their old, sinful ways and behaviors. Now, he's explaining the positive side: they've "put on" a new identity in Christ that is actively being transformed to reflect their Creator. This transformation is an ongoing process, aiming for a renewed understanding and resemblance to God.
"and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator." — The renewal of this "new self" isn't just about knowing more things, but about a deep, transformative knowledge specifically of the Creator. This knowledge is the very essence of the image of God…
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Last reviewed October 2026