Colossians 3:1

KJV

¶ If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

KJV (with Strong's)

If {G1487} ye {G4891} then {G3767} be risen {G4891} with Christ {G5547}, seek {G2212} those things which are above {G507}, where {G3757} Christ {G5547} sitteth {G2076}{G2521} on {G1722} the right hand {G1188} of God {G2316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So if you were raised along with the Messiah, then seek the things above, where the Messiah is sitting at the right hand of God.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.

American Standard Version

If then ye were raised together with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated on the right hand of God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Colossians 3:1 serves as a foundational exhortation for believers, building upon the profound spiritual reality of their union with Christ in His resurrection. It pivots from doctrinal exposition to practical living, urging those who have been spiritually raised with Christ to reorient their affections and pursuits towards heavenly realities, acknowledging Christ's supreme authority and exalted position at the right hand of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks a crucial transition in Paul's letter to the Colossians. Chapters 1 and 2 meticulously lay out the theological groundwork, emphasizing the absolute supremacy and all-sufficiency of Christ against various syncretistic philosophies and false teachings that threatened the Colossian church. Paul asserts that Christ is the head of all creation, the fullness of God, and that believers are "complete in Him" [Colossians 2:10](/colossians/2-10 "Colossians 2:10 - Complete in Christ"). The immediate preceding context, particularly [Colossians 2:20](/colossians/2-20 "Colossians 2:20 - Dead with Christ to the World"), establishes that believers have "died with Christ to the elemental spirits of the world." Colossians 3:1, introduced by the conditional "If ye then," functions as a logical consequence and a powerful imperative, moving from the *indicative* (what is true about believers in Christ) to the *imperative* (how believers should therefore live). It is the call to live out the implications of their new identity in Christ.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The church in Colossae was facing a complex array of challenges, often referred to as the "Colossian heresy." This was not a single, coherent system but a blend of Jewish legalism (insisting on dietary laws, festivals, and circumcision), ascetic practices (severe self-denial), mystical speculation (worship of angels, visions), and a philosophical emphasis on "elemental spirits" or "basic principles of the world." These teachings diminished Christ's unique role and sufficiency. Paul's letter, therefore, robustly asserts Christ's preeminence and the believer's fullness in Him. The command to "seek those things which are above" directly counters the temptation to be entangled by earthly regulations, human traditions, or a focus on the visible and temporal, redirecting the Colossians' gaze to the invisible, eternal, and divine realm where Christ reigns.

* **Key Themes:** Colossians 3:1 powerfully encapsulates several core themes of the letter and Pauline theology. Firstly, it underscores the **believer's profound union with Christ**, particularly in His resurrection. This is not merely a theological concept but a present spiritual reality that transforms identity and purpose. Secondly, it introduces the theme of **heavenly-mindedness** or **spiritual reorientation**. Because believers share in Christ's risen life, their affections, priorities, and pursuits should be directed towards eternal, spiritual realities rather than being consumed by fleeting earthly concerns. This theme is further developed in [Colossians 3:2](/colossians/3-2 "Colossians 3:2 - Set Your Mind on Things Above"). Thirdly, the verse highlights **Christ's supreme exaltation and authority**. His position "on the right hand of God" is a vivid theological statement affirming His completed redemptive work, His divine power, and His ongoing intercessory and sovereign rule. This exalted status of Christ serves as both the object and the motivation for the believer's heavenly pursuit, anchoring their hope and allegiance in Him, as seen in [Ephesians 1:20-23](/ephesians/1-20-23 "Ephesians 1:20-23 - Christ's Exaltation and Authority").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **risen (Greek, _synegeírō'_):** This verb, a compound of *syn* (with) and *egeírō* (to raise), literally means "to raise up together" or "to rouse in company with." In the context of Colossians 3:1, it refers to the spiritual reality that believers have been co-resurrected with Christ. It is a completed action (aorist tense), signifying a definitive past event in the believer's spiritual experience, where they participated in Christ's victory over sin and death, resulting in a new, spiritual life. This shared resurrection is the foundational premise for the subsequent command.
* **seek (Greek, _zētéō'_):** This verb denotes an active, earnest, and continuous pursuit. It implies a diligent search, an investigation, and a strong desire. It is not a passive waiting but an intentional, ongoing effort to prioritize, pursue, and acquire. In this context, it calls for a deliberate and persistent reorientation of one's desires, thoughts, and actions towards heavenly realities, making them the object of one's deepest aspirations.
* **above (Greek, _ánō'_):** This adverb literally means "upward" or "on the top." In a spiritual and theological sense, it refers to the heavenly realm, the divine sphere where God dwells and where Christ is enthroned. It signifies the spiritual, eternal, and divine realities that contrast sharply with the earthly, temporal, and human-centered concerns that Paul has just addressed in [Colossians 2](/colossians/2 "Colossians 2 - Warnings Against False Teaching").

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"If ye then be risen with Christ,"**: This opening clause establishes the theological premise for the entire exhortation. The "if" (Greek: *ei*) functions not as a statement of doubt but as a conditional particle introducing a reality that is assumed to be true for the believers ("since you have been raised with Christ"). It points to the believer's spiritual identification with Christ in His resurrection, signifying a new life and a new identity that transcends their former existence in sin and death. This spiritual resurrection is the basis for all subsequent commands and applications.
* **"seek those things which are above,"**: This is the central imperative of the verse, a direct command flowing from the premise. "Seek" implies an active, intentional, and continuous pursuit. "Those things which are above" refers to spiritual, eternal, and divine realities associated with heaven and God's kingdom, contrasting with earthly, temporal, or humanistic concerns. This command calls for a reorientation of one's affections, priorities, and efforts towards God's will, His glory, and the values of His heavenly realm.
* **"where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God."**: This final clause provides both the location and the ultimate motivation for seeking "things above." It identifies the "above" as the place where Christ is enthroned. Christ's position "on the right hand of God" is a powerful theological statement signifying His supreme authority, completed redemptive work, divine power, and ongoing intercessory role. It assures believers that their ultimate hope, their true home, and the object of their pursuit are securely located in the sovereign reign of their resurrected Lord.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. The opening "If ye then" functions as a **Conditional Clause**, setting up a logical premise (the believer's resurrection with Christ) upon which the subsequent command is based. This highlights the **Indicative-Imperative** pattern common in Paul's letters, where theological truth (indicative) precedes and undergirds ethical exhortation (imperative). The verb "seek" is in the **Imperative Mood**, indicating a direct command rather than a suggestion, emphasizing the urgency and necessity of this spiritual reorientation. **Metaphor** and **Symbolism** are richly present: "risen with Christ" is a metaphor for spiritual new birth and union, not a physical resurrection. "Things which are above" symbolizes heavenly, eternal, and spiritual realities, contrasting with earthly concerns. The phrase "sitteth on the right hand of God" is a powerful **Anthropomorphism** and **Symbolism** for Christ's supreme authority, completed work, and exalted status, signifying His co-equality with God and His universal dominion. Implicitly, there is an **Antithesis** or **Contrast** between the "things above" and the "things on earth" (made explicit in [Colossians 3:2](/colossians/3-2 "Colossians 3:2 - Set Your Mind on Things Above")), urging believers to choose eternal over temporal priorities.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Colossians 3:1 is a theological linchpin, connecting the believer's new identity in Christ to their practical conduct. It underscores the profound eschatological reality that believers, through their union with Christ, already participate in His resurrected and ascended life, even while still living on earth. This "already but not yet" tension means that while our physical bodies await glorification, our spirits have been raised to a new spiritual plane with Christ. This heavenly orientation is not an escape from earthly responsibilities but a transformation of perspective, enabling believers to live with eternal values in mind. It speaks to the doctrine of sanctification, where the new identity in Christ (justification) leads to a progressive transformation of character and priorities. The exaltation of Christ at God's right hand is central to Christian theology, affirming His divine authority, His completed work of redemption, and His ongoing intercession for His people, providing the ultimate anchor for our hope and the ultimate object of our worship.

* [Romans 6:4-5](/romans/6-4-5 "Romans 6:4-5 - Newness of Life in Christ")
* [Philippians 3:20](/philippians/3-20 "Philippians 3:20 - Our Citizenship is in Heaven")
* [Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Colossians 3:1 calls believers to a radical reorientation of their lives, challenging the pervasive tendency to be consumed by earthly anxieties, fleeting pleasures, or humanistic pursuits. Since our spiritual life and identity are now "with Christ" in the heavenly realms, our thoughts, desires, and actions should reflect this elevated reality. This means actively choosing to cultivate a mindset that prioritizes God's kingdom, eternal values, and spiritual growth over worldly success, material possessions, or temporal recognition. It involves a conscious effort to align our affections with Christ's priorities, seeking His glory in all things. Practically, this translates into discerning how we spend our time, invest our resources, and direct our energies, ensuring that our lives are lived in light of our heavenly citizenship and the ultimate return of Christ. It empowers us to live with hope, purpose, and spiritual discernment, free from the tyranny of earthly circumstances and opinions.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you find yourself most prone to seeking earthly things rather than "things above"?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to intentionally "seek those things which are above" in your daily routines and decision-making?**
* **How does the truth of Christ's exaltation at the right hand of God motivate or challenge your current priorities and aspirations?**

### FAQ

**Does "seek those things which are above" mean we should neglect earthly responsibilities?**

Answer: No, "seeking things above" does not imply a withdrawal from earthly responsibilities or a neglect of our duties in this world. Instead, it means performing those responsibilities with a heavenly perspective and motivation. It's about *how* we engage with the world, not *whether* we engage. For example, a believer still works, but they do so "as unto the Lord" [Colossians 3:23](/colossians/3-23 "Colossians 3:23 - Work Heartily as for the Lord"). It means our ultimate allegiance, hope, and values are rooted in Christ and His eternal kingdom, which then informs and transforms our actions in the present world, making us agents of God's kingdom here on earth.

**What exactly are "those things which are above"?**

Answer: "Those things which are above" refer to spiritual, eternal, and divine realities associated with God's heavenly realm and His kingdom. This includes God's will, His glory, His righteousness, spiritual virtues (like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, as listed in [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")), and the pursuit of Christ's character. It encompasses all that is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy, as encouraged in [Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Philippians 4:8 - Think on These Things"). It contrasts with the temporary, material, and often corrupt values of the fallen world.

**How does Christ's sitting at the right hand of God impact us?**

Answer: Christ's position at the right hand of God has profound implications for believers. Firstly, it signifies His completed work of redemption and His supreme authority over all things [Ephesians 1:20-22](/ephesians/1-20-22 "Ephesians 1:20-22 - Christ's Authority and Headship"). This gives believers assurance of salvation and victory. Secondly, it means He is actively interceding for us before the Father [Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Romans 8:34 - Christ's Intercession") and [Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ Our High Priest"). Thirdly, His exaltation provides the ultimate object of our hope and the anchor for our heavenly aspirations. Because our Head is in heaven, our true citizenship and ultimate destiny are also there [Philippians 3:20](/philippians/3-20 "Philippians 3:20 - Our Citizenship is in Heaven"), empowering us to live with an eternal perspective.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Colossians 3:1 finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in Christ, for He is both the *basis* and the *object* of the believer's heavenly pursuit. The very premise, "If ye then be risen with Christ," points directly to Jesus as the one who, through His death and resurrection, has inaugurated a new spiritual reality for humanity. He is the "firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep" [1 Corinthians 15:20](/1_corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ, the Firstfruits"), and our resurrection life is inextricably linked to His. Furthermore, the command to "seek those things which are above" is fulfilled in seeking Christ Himself, for He is the embodiment of all heavenly realities. He is "our life" [Colossians 3:4](/colossians/3-4 "Colossians 3:4 - Christ Our Life"), and in Him "dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily" [Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of God in Christ"). The ultimate motivation and destination for this seeking is "where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God," signifying His completed redemptive work, His supreme authority, and His ongoing intercession as our High Priest [Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ Our High Priest"). Thus, Christ is not merely a means to an end, but the very end itself; to seek "things above" is to seek more of Christ, to live more fully in His presence, and to anticipate His glorious return when "we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is" [1 John 3:2](/1_john/3-2 "1 John 3:2 - We Shall Be Like Him").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 8:6

For to be carnally minded [is] death; but to be spiritually minded [is] life and peace.

Matthew 6:33

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

2 Corinthians 4:18

While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen [are] temporal; but the things which are not seen [are] eternal.

Colossians 3:2

Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

Matthew 6:20

But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

Psalms 73:25

Whom have I in heaven [but thee]? and [there is] none upon earth [that] I desire beside thee.

Psalms 73:26

My flesh and my heart faileth: [but] God [is] the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.