Paul gives us an understanding of Christ’s message when he links Colossians 3:5, first part, to John 16:5. Paul is providing a list of sins of which the Holy Spirit will convict sinners: fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry.

The Holy Spirit's first step is to convict the world of these primary sins, absolute and universal bad traits of man. The list is foundational. They clearly spell the difference between good and bad.

In the second part of verse eight of John 16, the Holy Spirit will convict the world of righteousness. This part is related to Colossians 3: 8 “But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.”

These faults are not objective, but more subjective. They are character traits that can be reformed and vary from person to person. So the Holy Spirit would convict people regardless of culture or background. Bad habits are acquired character traits and are not written in our DNA.

Third, in the third part of John 16:8, the Holy Spirit will convict mankind of judgment.

Now Paul proposes a list of deeds to which a Christian will graduate to after he/she has been convicted of sin and then, of what is right. The list here includes some of the traits that were in Jesus Christ, and as one subscribes to them one becomes more and more like Christ. The Holy Spirit convicts mankind of judgment, both negative and positive. Consequently, those practicing the third list would reach the last stage of perfection of character.

So we see a progression in the sanctification path of the believer. 

The consequences of such a path are extraordinary according to Paul. The peace of God will rule in your heart (Colossians 3:15). What is the peace of God? Contentment, happiness, satisfaction, fulfillment, ecstasy and a guaranteed place in the kingdom of God.