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Commentary on Colossians 3 verses 1–4
The apostle, having described our privileges by Christ in the former part of the epistle, and our discharge from the yoke of the ceremonial law, comes here to press upon us our duty as inferred thence. Though we are made free from the obligation of the ceremonial law, it does not therefore follow that we may live as we list. We must walk the more closely with God in all the instances of evangelical obedience. He begins with exhorting them to set their hearts on heaven, and take them off from this world: If you then have risen with Christ. It is our privilege that we have risen with Christ; that is, have benefit by the resurrection of Christ, and by virtue of our union and communion with him are justified and sanctified, and shall be glorified. Hence he infers that we must seek those things which are above. We must mind the concerns of another world more than the concerns of this. We must make heaven our scope and aim, seek the favour of God above, keep up our communion with the upper world by faith, and hope, and holy love, and make it our constant care and business to secure our title to and qualifications for the heavenly bliss. And the reason is because Christ sits at the right hand of God. He who is our best friend and our head is advanced to the highest dignity and honour in heaven, and has gone before to secure to us the heavenly happiness; and therefore we should seek and secure what he has purchased at so vast an expense, and is taking so much care about. We must live such a life as Christ lived here on earth and lives now in heaven, according to our capacities.
I. He explains this duty (Col 3:2): Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth. Observe, To seek heavenly things is to set our affections upon them, to love them and let our desires be towards them. Upon the wings of affection the heart soars upwards, and is carried forth towards spiritual and divine objects. We must acquaint ourselves with them, esteem them above all other things, and lay out ourselves in preparation for the enjoyment of them. David gave this proof of his loving the house of God, that he diligently sought after it, and prepared for it, Psa 27:4. This is to be spiritually minded (Rom 8:6), and to seek and desire a better country, that is, a heavenly, Heb 11:14, Heb 11:16. Things on earth are here set in opposition to things above. We must not dote upon them, nor expect too much from them, that we may set our affections on heaven; for heaven and earth are contrary one to the other, and a supreme regard to both is inconsistent; and the prevalence of our affection to one will proportionably weaken and abate our affection to the other.
II. He assigns three reasons for this, Col 3:3, Col 3:4.
1.That we are dead; that is, to present things, and as our portion. We are so in profession and obligation; for we are buried with Christ, and planted into the likeness of his death. Every Christian is crucified unto the world, and the world is crucified unto him, Gal 6:14. And if we are dead to the earth, and have renounced it as our happiness, it is absurd for us to set our affections upon it, and seek it. We should be like a dead thing to it, unmoved and unaffected towards it.
2.Our true life lies in the other world: You are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God, Col 3:3. The new man has its livelihood thence. It is born and nourished from above; and the perfection of its life is reserved for that state. It is hid with Christ; not hid from us only, in point of secrecy, but hid for us, denoting security. The life of a Christian is hid with Christ. Because I live you shall live also, Joh 14:19. Christ is at present a hidden Christ, or one whom we have not seen; but this is our comfort, that our life is hid with him, and laid up safely with him. As we have reason to love him whom we have not seen (Pe1 1:8), so we may take the comfort of a happiness out of sight, and reserved in heaven for us.
3.Because at the second coming of Christ we hope for the perfection of our happiness. If we live a life of Christian purity and devotion now, when Christ, who is our life, shall appear, we shall also appear with him in glory, Col 3:4. Observe, (1.) Christ is a believer's life. I live, yet not I, but Christ lives in me, Gal 2:20. He is the principle and end of the Christian's life. He lives in us by his Spirit, and we live to him in all we do. To me to live is Christ, Phi 1:21. (2.) Christ will appear again. He is now hid; and the heavens must contain him; but he will appear in all the pomp of the upper world, with his holy angels, and in his own glory and his Father's glory, Mar 8:38; Luk 9:26. (3.) We shall then appear with him in glory. It will be his glory to have his redeemed with him; he will come to be glorified in his saints (Th2 1:10); and it will be their glory to come with him, and be with him for ever. At the second coming of Christ there will be a general meeting of all the saints; and those whose life is now hid with Christ shall then appear with Christ in that glory which he himself enjoys, Joh 17:24. Do we look for such a happiness, and should we not set our affections upon that world, and live above this? What is there here to make us fond of it? What is there not there to draw our hearts to it? Our head is there, our home is there, our treasure is there, and we hope to be there for ever.
In so many words he says: "Since ye are risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth." Accordingly, it is in our mind that he shows that we rise (with Christ), since it is by this alone that we are as yet able to reach to heavenly objects.
For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. But when Christ, who is your life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory.".
Give heed to the things that are above, not to those things which are on the earth; for ye are dead, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. But when Christ your life shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory."
"And I saw thrones, and them that sate upon them, and judgment was given unto them; and I saw the souls of them that were slain on account of the testimony of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast nor his image, nor have received his writing on their forehead or in their hand; and they reigned with Christ for a thousand years: the rest of them lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection." There are two resurrections. But the first resurrection is now of the souls that are by the faith, which does not permit men to pass over to the second death. Of this resurrection the apostle says: "If ye have risen with Christ, seek those things which are above."
Let us think upon the things that are above, on the heavenly things, and meditate on them, where Christ has been lifted up and exalted. But let us forsake the world which is not ours, that we may arrive at the place to which we have been invited. Let us raise up our eyes on high, that we may see the splendor which shall be revealed.
"If then ye were raised together with Christ." He brings them together, having above established that He died. Therefore he saith, "If then ye were raised together with Christ, seek the things that are above." No observances are there. "Where Christ is seated on the right hand of God." Wonderful! Whither hath he led our minds aloft! How hath he filled them with mighty aspiration! It was not enough to say, "the things that are above," nor yet, "where Christ is," but what? "seated on the right hand of God." From that point he was preparing them henceforward to see the earth.
Because the inner man, too, if he is certainly renewed from day to day, is surely old before he is renewed. For that is done inwardly, which the same apostle says: “Put off the old man and put on the new man.” And he offers an explanation of this in the words that follow: “Wherefore putting away lying, speak the truth.” But where is lying put away, except inwardly, in order that he may dwell in the holy mountain of God who speaks the truth in his heart. … And the words of the apostle are in keeping with this mystery [i.e., of inner resurrection]: “But if you have risen with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God; mind the things that are above.” .
What is the resurrection of the soul, of which the apostle speaks, saying, “If then you have been raised with Christ”? When the apostle said, “God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, has shined into our hearts,” he showed this resurrection to be the exodus from the old state which in the likeness of Sheol incarcerates a man so that the light of the gospel will not shine mystically upon him. This is a breath of life through hope in the resurrection, and by it the dawning of divine wisdom shines in his heart, so that a man should become new, having nothing of the old man. Then the image of Christ is formed in us through the Spirit of wisdom and revelation of the knowledge of him.
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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. The immediate preceding context, particularly Colossians 2:20, 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. 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.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
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), 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.
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
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. 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), 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. 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. This gives believers assurance of salvation and victory. Secondly, it means He is actively interceding for us before the Father Romans 8:34 and Hebrews 7:25. 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, 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, 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, and in Him "dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily" Colossians 2:9. 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. 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.