Colossians 3:1
If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The phrase "you have been raised with Christ" points to a finished, past action, not an ongoing process. This means our new spiritual life is a reality that has already happened through our union with Christ's resurrection, so we must actively live out that reality by focusing our desires and pursuits on heavenly things.
Paul is transitioning from explaining the theological realities of the Christian faith to outlining the practical implications of that faith for daily life. Having established in the previous chapter that believers have died and risen with Christ, he now builds on this foundation. This verse is the starting point of a significant exhortation to live out their new identity in Christ, urging them to direct their focus and desires toward heavenly realities because Christ Himself is there, reigning at God's right hand.
Have you ever felt like you're living in two worlds? This verse grounds our daily lives in a heavenly reality that changes everything.
The Apostle Paul starts this chapter with a powerful "If then you have been raised with Christ." This isn't a suggestion or a possibility; it's presented as a foundational fact for believers.
A Unified Experience
What does it really mean to 'seek the things that are above'? It’s more than just daydreaming; it's a focused pursuit with a divine object.
Paul tells us to 'seek the things that are above.' But what are these 'things above'? They aren't just abstract concepts; they have a very specific focus.
Where Christ Resides
Understand the original words
synēgerthēte · Greek Verb
To be restored to life; in a spiritual sense, it refers to the regeneration of the believer, who is united with Jesus in His resurrection and empowered by the Holy Spirit to walk in newness of life.
Christos · Greek Noun
The promised Messiah of Israel and Savior of the world; the eternal Son of God who became incarnate, died for the sins of humanity, and rose again to reconcile believers to God.
dexia · Greek Noun
A metaphorical or literal position of supreme authority, power, and honor at the Father’s side, signifying the completion of the Savior's redemptive work and His present intercession.
This verse directly links the believer's spiritual resurrection with Christ's at their baptism to their present calling to focus their lives and affections on heaven, where Christ now reigns in glory.
c. AD 30-33
Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus
Jesus Christ is crucified, buried, and resurrected, signifying His victory over sin and death. This event is the foundation of the Christian faith.
c. AD 33— this verse
Ascension of Jesus
Following His resurrection, Jesus ascends into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God, signifying His exaltation and reign.
c. AD 40s-50s
Paul's Missionary Journeys
The Apostle Paul travels extensively, planting churches and teaching the doctrines of Christianity, including the concept of spiritual resurrection with Christ.
c. AD 60-62
Writing of Colossians
Paul writes the Epistle to the Colossians, likely while imprisoned, to address theological errors and encourage the believers in their faith and practice.
This passage directly parallels the idea of being 'raised with Christ' by describing our burial and resurrection with Him in baptism, emphasizing a newness of life.
Philippians 3:20It echoes the call to 'seek the things that are above' by stating our 'citizenship is in heaven,' highlighting where our true allegiance and hope should lie.
Ephesians 2:6This passage connects our resurrection and ascension with Christ, stating that God 'raised us up with Christ and enthroned us together with him in the heavenly realms,' reinforcing the reality of our present heavenly connection.
John 14:2-3Jesus Himself speaks of going to prepare a place for us in His Father's house, which directly relates to His current position at God's right hand and His promise to return and take us to be with Him.
vincentColossians 3:1: "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God."
Be risen (συνηγέρθητε)Rev., correctly, were raised. See Colossians 2:12. In their baptism in which they died (Colossians 2:20). Compare Romans 6:2 sqq.Sitteth (ἐστιν καθήμενος)According to the A.V. the literal rendering would be is sitting. Is, however, must be taken separately; where Christ is, seated. Seated is a secondary predicate, as hidden in Colossians 2…
barnesColossians 3:1: "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God."
If ye then be risen with Christ - The apostle in this place evidently founds the argument on what he had said in Colossians 2:12 ; see the notes at that passage. The argument is, that there was such an union between Christ and his people, that in virtue of his death they become dead to sin; that in virtue of his resurrection they rise to spiritual life, and that,…
The phrase "you have been raised with Christ" points to a finished, past action, not an ongoing process. This means our new spiritual life is a reality that has already happened through our union with Christ's resurrection, so we must actively live out that reality by focusing our desires and pursuits on heavenly things.
Paul is transitioning from explaining the theological realities of the Christian faith to outlining the practical implications of that faith for daily life. Having established in the previous chapter that believers have died and risen with Christ, he now builds on this foundation. This verse is the starting point of a significant exhortation to live out their new identity in Christ, urging them to direct their focus and desires toward heavenly realities because Christ Himself is there, reigning at God's right hand.
Paul is transitioning from explaining the theological realities of the Christian faith to outlining the practical implications of that faith for daily life. Having established in the previous chapter that believers have died and risen with Christ, he now builds on this foundation. This verse is the starting point of a significant exhortation to live out their new identity in Christ, urging them to direct their focus and desires toward heavenly realities because Christ Himself is there, reigning at God's right hand.
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Jesus isn't just in heaven; He's on a throne! Understanding His current status fuels our pursuit of heavenly things.
The phrase 'seated at the right hand of God' is packed with meaning. It's not just a passive position; it's a declaration of Christ's authority and power.
The Throne of Authority
"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God." — The phrase "you have been raised with Christ" points to a finished, past action, not an ongoing process. This means our new spiritual life is a reality that has already happened through our union wit…
