What does Colossians 3:1 mean?

Explanation

Colossians 3:1 is a directive to the believers in Colossae to focus their lives on Jesus Christ and spiritual realities rather than on earthly concerns.

It is a call to a changed perspective and prioritization following one's spiritual rebirth or resurrection with Christ.

The phrase "If ye then be risen with Christ" suggests that because believers are identified with Christ in His resurrection, their pursuit should be the heavenly things, "where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God." This position of Christ signifies authority, honor, and power, indicating that the believer's allegiance and aspirations should align with the exalted Christ.

Historical Context

The Apostle Paul wrote the letter to the Colossians while he was in prison, likely in Rome, around AD 60-62.

The city of Colossae was a small but significant city in the Roman province of Asia, part of present-day Turkey.

At that time, the church in Colossae was facing challenges from false teachings that combined elements of Jewish legalism, local folk belief, and early Gnostic thought.

Paul addresses these challenges by emphasizing the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ and encouraging the believers to live lives consistent with their faith in Him.

Theological Insights

Different theological traditions have reflected upon this verse.

For evangelicals, the verse often underscores the believer's identification with Christ's resurrection and the accompanying moral transformation.

Catholic interpretations might emphasize the sacramental aspect, linking the believer's baptismal resurrection with Christ to the seekings of higher things.

Reformed theology may focus on the sovereignty of God in Christ's reign and the implications for Christian living.

Meanwhile, Liberation theologians could interpret this verse as motivation for social justice, seeking a higher order of equity as embodied in Christ's kingship.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of Colossians 3:1 are numerous:

• Believers are encouraged to prioritize their spiritual life and relationship with God over material and secular pursuits.
• It calls for a transformation of the mind, leading to a shift in values and behaviors that reflect heavenly realities.
• It reminds Christians to set their hearts on service, charity, and love, the virtues that mirror the character of Christ.
• It can serve as an encouragement during trials, focusing on the eternal hope and glory with Christ, rather than temporary suffering.

Cross-References

• Romans 6:4: "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."
• Philippians 3:20: "For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:"
• Ephesians 2:6: "And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:"
• Colossians 3:2: "Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text of this verse include:

• "Risen" (συνηγέρθητε, synēgerthēte) from the root συνεγείρω (synegeiro), meaning to rise together with or to be co-resurrected.
• "Seek" (ζητεῖτε, zēteite), meaning to strive after or to seek by thinking, meditating, or reasoning; to inquire into.
• "Above" (ἄνω, anō), indicating upwards or higher place.
• "Sitteth" (κάθηται, kathētai), from the root κάθημαι (kathemai), meaning to be seated, indicating a position of rest and authority.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of union with a divine figure and seeking divine realms can be found in various religious traditions.

In Buddhism, the pursuit of enlightenment might be comparatively seen as seeking a higher state of being.

In Hinduism, the idea of moksha, or liberation, involves rising above the physical and embracing spiritual realities.

However, the specificity of being "risen with Christ" and the idea of a personal God's right hand are distinctly Christian beliefs, not paralleled in the same way in other ancient myths or religions.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives do not typically intersect directly with theological claims regarding spiritual resurrection or Christ's seat of authority in heaven, as these matters are beyond empirical investigation.

In a symbolic sense, however, psychology might explore the impact of holding a transcendent outlook on human well-being and behavior, suggesting that people who seek meaning beyond the material world may experience various psychological benefits.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have commented on Colossians 3:1:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary emphasizes that a risen Christian's affections should be set on higher, spiritual things rather than earthly pleasures.
• John Gill's Exposition of the Bible suggests that since believers are raised with Christ, they should seek the things that are consistent with their resurrected, noble, and heavenly calling.
• The Pulpit Commentary discusses the practical outworking of the principle laid down in Colossians 3:1, indicating that Christians should live life with a heavenly direction and perspective.
• Contemporary commentaries often expound on the transformative power of this verse, suggesting that it encapsulates the Christian life, which is marked by continuous spiritual growth and a focus on Christ-like living.