In Colossians 3:1–11, Paul the Apostle shifts from theology to application. After spending two chapters explaining the greatness of Jesus Christ and the new life believers have in Him, Paul now shows what that life should look like in practice.
A simple principle drives this passage: what we believe shapes how we live. Christian doctrine is never meant to stay in our heads—it transforms our actions, attitudes, and priorities.
Paul begins with a command: “Seek the things that are above.” Because believers are alive in Christ, our focus should shift away from the temporary things of this world and toward the eternal things of God.
To “seek” means active pursuit. It is intentional and ongoing. The world constantly competes for our attention through status, possessions, entertainment, and approval. If we are not intentional, those things will slowly shape our thinking.
Paul reminds believers that their identity has fundamentally changed. “You have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” The old life defined by sin no longer has authority. Through Christ’s death and resurrection, believers have been given a new life and a secure future. One day, when Christ appears in glory, those who belong to Him will share in that glory as well.
Because of this new identity, Paul calls believers to take sin seriously. He uses strong language: put it to death. Sexual immorality, impurity, evil desires, and greed must be confronted and removed. These behaviors are not harmless—they destroy relationships, damage hearts, and pull people away from God’s design.
Paul also addresses sins of attitude and speech: anger, slander, malice, and lying. These often appear more subtle, but they can be just as destructive in families, friendships, and churches. Followers of Christ are called to remove these patterns because they belong to the old life.
Instead, believers are to put on the new self, which is continually being renewed in the image of its Creator. In this new identity, worldly divisions fade. Cultural status, ethnicity, and social background lose their power because Christ is all and in all.
So how do we live with our minds set on things above? It begins with daily rhythms, time in God’s Word, prayer, and intentional moments throughout the day to refocus on Christ. Over time, these practices reshape our thinking and strengthen our walk with God.
When believers fix their eyes on Christ, pursue holiness, and remember who they are in Him, they begin to experience the flourishing life God designed for them.
Pastor Chris Williams
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