Things That are Above

By Ashley Synowicki

In week 7 we discussed Colossians 3:1-4:

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.

Though we covered a small section of Scripture this week, there was plenty to consider. We began our discussion considering the phrase things that are above because it is repeated twice in this short amount of text. We asked what Paul is referring to when he tells his readers to keep seeking these things? After some group discussion a few suggestions came to mind. The first being Philippians 4:8 

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

The fruit of the Spirit were also mentioned from Galatians 5:22-23:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

After some consideration, it seems the things which Paul is referring to are eternal things. Things that are, as mentioned in verse 1, where Christ is currently. Paul is telling us to choose to set our minds on that which has eternal value instead of temporary and fleeting things. Paul refers to these as things of the earth (vs. 2).

Shereen also discussed how this section of text is a sort of pivot point for the book of Colossians. At this point we move on from what we have been warned about in previous chapters. Paul is moving forward and discussing what we can look forward to as Christ followers.

Throughout his writings Paul often compares life in the flesh to life in the Spirit. Flesh is defined as a bondage to sin, seeking to gratify the body, and also death. This is in stark contrast to life in the Spirit which is defined by freedom, transformation, safe and secure protection, shelter.

Finally we can come to the conclusion that these are in fact the things above that Paul is telling his readers to seek. Freedom is found in Christ when are raised with Him (verse 1). And we have the opportunity to live a life in the Spirit if we choose to set our minds on those eternal things. This revelation provides an incredible perspective of freedom and security, even in this temporal world we live in.