| Series | 2. Reading from Colossians |
|---|---|
| Theme | 2. Reading from Colossians - Faitauga mai le tusi o Kolose |
| Colour | Lanu Meamata |
| Special Day | Asiasiga – Komiti o Atina’e |
Scripture Focus: Kolose 3:18 - 4: 1
If then you were raised together with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated on the right hand of God.
- Colossians 3:18 - 4: 1 (WEB)
Study:
Paul continues his instruction to the Colossian believers, urging them to live lives transformed by their relationship with Christ. Having died to sin and been raised with Christ, their focus should shift from earthly things to heavenly realities. This isn't a call to disengage from the world, but to re-orient our priorities. We’ve experienced a spiritual resurrection; therefore, our desires and affections should now be set on God and the things of God. The verse emphasizes *where* Christ is – seated at the right hand of God – signifying His authority, power, and glory. This placement is not merely geographical but symbolic of His completed work and ongoing reign. The subsequent instruction to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience (though not explicitly in the provided verse, it's a logical continuation from the preceding text) connects living ‘above’ with practical, everyday behaviour.
Application:
In today’s world, it's easy to become consumed by earthly pursuits – material possessions, career ambition, social status. Paul's words challenge us to actively resist this pull. Are our thoughts and actions reflecting the reality of our resurrection life with Christ? Do we prioritize His kingdom and values, or are we simply chasing after fleeting worldly pleasures? This means intentionally cultivating a mindset focused on eternity, seeking God’s will in all we do, and demonstrating Christ-like character in our interactions with others. It’s a constant process of re-evaluation and realignment, recognizing that our true citizenship is in heaven. It encourages a proactive seeking after spiritual disciplines that keep our focus upward.
Reflection Questions:
- What “earthly things” tend to distract you from focusing on Christ?
- How can you practically “seek the things above” in your daily life?
- What does it mean to you that Christ is seated at the right hand of God?
- In what ways can you better demonstrate compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience to those around you?
- How does understanding your 'resurrection life' shape your priorities?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for raising us with Christ. Forgive us for the times we’ve allowed earthly concerns to overshadow our devotion to you. Help us to fix our eyes on things above, to cultivate a heart of compassion, and to live lives that honor your name. Empower us to live out our resurrection life, reflecting your love and grace to the world around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tags: Colossians, resurrection, heavenly minded, spiritual priorities, Christian life, discipleship, faith, bible study, renewing the mind, seeking God, transformation