(a) The features of the New Life in Christ by Paul in Colossians are: According to Paul, one's mind should be set on things above. People should depart from all sinful practices. They should put on the new nature which is renewed after its Creator. They should have compassion, kindness, meekness and patience. They should forbear one another and forgive each other. They should put on love, which builds everything together. They should allow the peace of Christ rule their hearts: They should be thankful always. They should allow the word of Christ dwell richly in them. They should teach and admonish one another in all wisdom. They are advised to sing Psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness. They should note that whatever is done in word or deed should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus.

(b) Practices which can have a negative effect in any Christian community are:
(i) Gossiping and backbiting.
(ii) Greed and selfishness.
(iii) Lack of love.
(iv) Jealousy and envy.
(v) Quarrels and in fighting.
(vi) Unforgiveness.
(vii) Covetousness and stealing.
(viii) Bearing false witness.
(ix) Drug abuse.
(x) Child abuse.
(xi) Sexual immorality.
(xii) Drunkenness.
(xiii) Fraud and corruption
(xiv) Social injustice.