Colossians 3:1
“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Having finished his doctrinal argument, Paul turns to practical living. Chapter 3 begins by grounding all Christian conduct in the believer's union with the risen, reigning Christ.
What Does Colossians 3:1 Mean?
Paul's command is to direct your pursuits upward toward Christ, because you have been raised to new life with Him. The little word "if" here does not express doubt -- it means "since" or "because." Paul has already taught that those who belong to Christ have been joined to His death and raised with Him to a new kind of life. Now he draws the practical conclusion: a risen people should live with their eyes on the realm where their risen Lord now reigns.
To "seek those things which are above" is to make heavenly realities the aim of one's desires, decisions, and daily energy. The word "seek" implies an active, ongoing pursuit, not a passing glance. Paul anchors this upward focus to a specific place: "where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God." That image is drawn from the Scriptures and speaks of the place of highest honor and authority. Christ is not absent or idle; He is enthroned and reigning. So the believer's attention is not directed toward a vague sky but toward a living, exalted Lord. Because your true life is now bound up with the One who reigns above, let your heart's pursuits rise to meet Him there. The resurrection is not only something to believe -- it is something to live out, day by day, by seeking the things where Christ is.
In the Original Language
The Greek "synēgerthēte" (be risen with) is a single word meaning to be raised together with -- believers share in Christ's resurrection. "Zēteite" (seek) is a present-tense command for continual, active pursuit.
Cross References
“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.”
- Romans 6:4
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
- Matthew 6:33
“For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:”
- Philippians 3:20
Application
Because you share in Christ's risen life, aim your daily desires and decisions toward Him who reigns above, rather than letting earthly concerns capture all your attention.
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