Colossians 3:1-4
Hidden with Christ
Read the passage
1Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.
2Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
3For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
4When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.
Berean Standard Bible
Read aloud
Because the believers have been raised with Christ, Paul calls them to seek the things above, where Christ sits at God's right hand. Their new life gives their desires a new direction.
They are to set their minds on things above rather than earthly things. This does not mean neglecting daily responsibilities. The instructions that follow concern conduct and relationships. It means letting the reigning Christ determine what they value and pursue.
Paul says they died and their life is now hidden with Christ in God. Their old allegiance has ended, and their true life is secured in relationship with Him. Its full glory is not yet visible in the present world.
When Christ appears, they will appear with Him in glory. He is their life now and the source of their future. That promise gives hope while they wait and purpose to the choices they make today.
Questions
1 Why does Paul tell the believers to seek the things above?
AnswerThey have been raised with Christ, who sits at God's right hand. Their desires should fit the new life they share with Him.
2 Does setting the mind above mean ignoring daily responsibilities?
AnswerNo. It means letting Christ's rule shape what we value and do, including the ordinary conduct the following verses address.
3 Where is their life now hidden?
AnswerIt is hidden with Christ in God. Their life belongs to Him, even though its full glory is not yet visible.
4 What will happen when Christ appears?
AnswerThey will appear with Him in glory. The Christ who is their life now is also the source of their future hope.
What This Means for Us
Before making a choice that matters to you, ask what matters to the Lord who reigns above. Popularity, possessions or praise may feel urgent without deserving first place. Belonging to Christ gives us another measure.
Faithful choices may go unnoticed now. We can continue in them without demanding immediate recognition, trusting that the life hidden with Christ will be revealed with Him in glory.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, set our minds on what matters to You. Help us live faithfully under Your rule and wait with hope for the day when we will appear with You in glory. Amen.