What does Colossians 3:4 mean?

Explanation

The verse Colossians 3:4 ([When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.]) offers a message of hope and assurance to believers, suggesting a future time when Jesus Christ, who is central to Christian faith and life, will return.

The phrase "Christ, who is our life" signifies the deep spiritual connection that Christians have with Jesus, viewing Him as the source of life and the core of their existence.

The second part of the verse, "shall appear," refers to the Second Coming of Christ, a fundamental Christian belief that Jesus will return at the end of times.

When Paul writes, "then shall ye also appear with him in glory," he is referring to the believers' participation in this glorious event.

In Christian eschatology, this is understood to mean that those who have lived in faith will share in the glory of Christ's reign, transformed and made perfect, as envisioned in the New Testament.

Historical Context

Colossians 3:4 is a part of a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Christian community in Colossae, a city in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey).

The letter, dated between 58 to 62 AD, addresses the challenges faced by the Colossians, including false teachings and cultural pressures.

Paul’s intention is to reinforce the supreme authority of Christ and encourage believers to live a life that reflects their faith in Him.

During this time, the early Christian community was trying to understand how to live in a way that was distinct from both their Jewish roots and pagan surroundings.

Theological Insights

Theologically, Colossians 3:4 encompasses several Christian doctrines.

First, it touches on the idea of "union with Christ," suggesting that believers are spiritually connected with Jesus in his death and resurrection, leading to transformation in their lives.

Secondly, the verse touches on the doctrine of the Parousia, or the Second Coming, affirming the belief that Christ will return.

Third, the idea of glorification is present, which speaks to the ultimate transformation and perfection of believers alongside Christ in the afterlife.

Different theological perspectives may emphasize various aspects of this verse.

Practical Applications

Practically, Colossians 3:4 can inspire individuals to live in a manner that is consistent with Christian values, with the hope of sharing in Christ's glory guiding everyday behavior.

It encourages believers to look beyond the temporal aspects of life and focus on spiritual growth and eternal perspectives.

In times of suffering or moral dilemma, this verse can be a source of strength and encouragement, reminding believers of the future glory that awaits them with Christ.

Cross-References

• 1 John 3:2 ("Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.")
• 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 ("For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.")
• 2 Corinthians 3:18 ("But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.")
• Philippians 3:20-21 ("For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.")

Language Study

In the original Greek text of the New Testament, key words are:

• "Christos" (Christ), meaning "the Anointed One," reflecting the Hebrew "Messiah."
• "Phaneroō" (shall appear), meaning "to make visible" or "to reveal." This term indicates a future, visible manifestation.
• "Zōē" (life), used throughout the New Testament to contrast with physical life (bios) and signify eternal or spiritual life.
• "Doxa" (glory), representing splendor, brightness, or magnificence, often associated with God's presence.

Analyzing these words draws out the nuances of spiritual life being intertwined with Christ's revealed glory.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparative religion, the theme of a deity or divine representative returning to bring about a transformation or new era is fairly common.

For example, in Hinduism, there is the belief in the return of Kalki, the last avatar of Vishnu, who is expected to end the present age of darkness and initiate a new era of righteousness.

Similar to Christian expectation of Christ’s glorious return, such myths also encapsulate the hope of renewal and righteous Judgment.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the verse Colossians 3:4 is regarded metaphysical and not subject to empirical testing or observation.

Science does not deal with supernatural events or eschatology; hence, it remains outside the scope of scientific method.

Scientists may study religious beliefs and their effects on human behavior and societies but do not weigh in on their ontological truth.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have provided insight into this verse:

• John Calvin emphasized the transformative aspect, emphasizing that the Christian life is hidden until it is revealed in Christ at the last day.
• Matthew Henry highlighted the motivational side of this verse, suggesting it should stir up believers to seek the things that are above, where Christ sits.
• N.T.

Wright focuses on the "already and not yet" aspect of Christian theology, where Christ’s life is already present with believers, but its full manifestation awaits his return.

Each commentary underscores the eschatological promise and its influence on Christian life, faith, and practice.