Set Your Mind on Things Above – Colossians 3:1-4 Bible Study
Scripture: Colossians 3:1-4 (ESV)
"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory."*
Introduction: A Call to Live Differently
Paul has spent Colossians 1-2 laying the foundation that Jesus is supreme, we are complete in Him, and we must reject false teachings.
Now, in Colossians 3, he shifts from what we believe to how we live.
If we truly belong to Christ, our focus, desires, and priorities must reflect that reality. Paul challenges us:
Seek heavenly things – Live with an eternal mindset.
Set your mind on Christ – Let Him shape your thoughts and priorities.
Remember your identity – You have died to your old life and are hidden in Christ.
Live for His return – Your future is secure in glory with Him.
Let’s break this passage down.
1. Seek the Things Above (v.1)
"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God."
"If then you have been raised with Christ" – This isn’t a question of doubt but a statement of fact. If you are a believer, you have been raised to new life with Christ.
"Seek the things that are above" – The Greek word for "seek" (ζητέω, zēteō) means to actively pursue or desire. This isn’t passive. It’s a daily choice.
"Where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God" – This reminds us that Jesus is ruling and reigning. Our lives should reflect His authority.
Paul is telling us: Stop chasing after earthly things. Make Christ and His kingdom your priority.
Reflection:
What are you seeking most in life, earthly success or spiritual growth?
Is your heart set on Christ, or are you more focused on temporary things?
2. Set Your Mind on Things Above (v.2)
"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."
"Set your minds" (φρονεῖτε, phroneite) – This means to fix your thoughts intentionally. It’s about directing your mental energy toward Christ.
"Not on things that are on earth" – Paul isn’t saying we should ignore our responsibilities, but our minds should be governed by eternal truth, not earthly concerns.
This is about perspective. A believer’s mindset should be shaped by God’s kingdom, not the world’s values.
Reflection:
Are your thoughts more focused on earthly worries or on Christ?
How can you intentionally shift your mindset toward eternity?
3. Your Life is Hidden in Christ (v.3)
"For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God."
"You have died" – This refers to our old, sinful nature. When we came to Christ, we died to our former way of living.
"Your life is hidden with Christ" – The word hidden (κρύπτω, kryptō) means secure, covered, and protected. Our true identity is now wrapped up in Christ.
Paul is emphasizing our security in Christ. The world may not fully see it now, but our real life is with Him.
Reflection:
Are you still clinging to parts of your old, earthly self, or do you fully embrace your new identity in Christ?
Do you live with confidence, knowing your life is safe and hidden in Him?
4. Your Future Glory with Christ (v.4)
"When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory."
"Christ who is your life" – Jesus isn’t just part of our lives. He IS our life.
"When He appears" – This refers to His second coming. Christ will return, and our true identity will be revealed in full.
"You also will appear with Him in glory" – The believer’s future is secure in eternity with Christ.
Paul reminds us that this world is temporary. Our real home is with Jesus.
Reflection:
Are you living like Christ is your life, or is He just a part of it?
How does knowing your future with Him change how you live today?
Final Thoughts: Live with an Eternal Focus
Paul challenges us that if we belong to Christ, we should think and live differently.
🔥 Stop chasing earthly things—pursue Christ.
🧠 Set your mind on eternity, not temporary concerns.
✝️ Live like someone whose life is hidden in Christ.
👑 Remember, your future is secure in glory with Him.
Ask yourself:
✔️ Are my priorities and thoughts truly centered on Christ?
✔️ Am I seeking eternal things, or am I distracted by earthly concerns?
✔️ Does my life reflect that I am hidden in Christ?
Tomorrow, Paul will get practical, teaching us how to put off our old sinful ways and walk in our new identity.
