Colossians 3:1

Colossians 3:1 (KJV) serves as a foundational call to heavenly-mindedness for believers, building on the spiritual reality of their new life in Christ. It shifts the focus from earthly concerns to the elevated position of Christ and, by extension, the believer's new identity in Him.

Context

Written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Colossae, this verse marks a pivotal transition in the letter. Chapters 1 and 2 establish the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ, countering various false teachings (such as legalism, asceticism, and mystical philosophies) that threatened to undermine the Colossians' faith. Paul emphasizes that Christ is the head of all principality and power, and believers are complete in Him. This verse, beginning with "If ye then," signals a move from doctrinal exposition to practical exhortation. It directly follows the idea introduced in Colossians 2:20, where Paul describes believers as having died with Christ to the elemental spirits of the world.

Key Themes

• Resurrection Life and Union with Christ: The opening phrase, "If ye then be risen with Christ," highlights the believer's spiritual union with Christ in His death and resurrection. This is not merely a future hope but a present reality. Through faith, believers participate in Christ's victory over sin and death, receiving a new spiritual life. This concept is further developed in passages like Romans 6:4, which speaks of walking in newness of life.
• Heavenly Mindedness: The command to "seek those things which are above" urges a reorientation of priorities, desires, and pursuits. It calls believers to fix their affections and aspirations on spiritual, eternal realities rather than the fleeting concerns of the earthly realm. This pursuit involves focusing on God's will, His kingdom, and the values of heaven.
• Christ's Exaltation and Authority: The phrase "where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God" underscores Christ's supreme authority, power, and completed redemptive work. His position at the right hand of God signifies His triumph, His intercessory role, and His ultimate sovereignty. This truth serves as the anchor and motivation for seeking heavenly things, as our ultimate hope and allegiance rest in Him. Hebrews 1:3 also speaks to this exalted position.

Linguistic Insights

• "If ye then be risen" (εἰ οὖν συνηγέρθητε - *ei oun synegerthete*): The Greek verb *synegerthete* is in the aorist passive indicative, emphasizing a completed action. It signifies that believers *have been* raised with Christ, not that they might be or should be. This foundational truth serves as the basis for the subsequent command.
• "Seek" (ζητεῖτε - *zēteite*): This is a present imperative verb, indicating a continuous, ongoing action. It implies an active, earnest, and persistent pursuit, investigation, and desire. It is not a passive waiting but an intentional effort to prioritize and pursue spiritual realities.
• "Above" (ἄνω - *anō*): This adverb refers to a higher place, specifically heaven. It symbolizes the spiritual, eternal, and divine realm, contrasting with the earthly or temporal.

Practical Application

Colossians 3:1 calls believers to live consistently with their new identity in Christ. Since we have been spiritually raised with Him, our lives should reflect heavenly values and priorities. This means:

• Mindset Transformation: Actively choosing to focus our thoughts and affections on eternal truths rather than being consumed by worldly anxieties or fleeting pleasures. This transformation is echoed in Romans 12:2, which calls believers not to be conformed to this world but to be transformed by the renewing of their mind.
• Prioritizing God's Kingdom: Making choices that align with God's will and purposes, investing our time, talents, and resources in things that have eternal significance. It aligns with the Lord's teaching to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.
• Living from an Elevated Perspective: Recognizing that our true home and citizenship are in heaven, which frees us from the tyranny of earthly opinions, possessions, and circumstances. This heavenly perspective empowers us to live with hope, purpose, and spiritual discernment in a fallen world.