Colossians 3:3-4 is about emphasizing the believer’s identity as being hidden with Christ in God, which will ultimately be revealed in glory when Christ returns.
3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
4 When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
Setting the Scene for Colossians 3:3-4
In Colossians chapter 3, the scene is set in a small house church in the ancient city of Colossae. The room is dimly lit by oil lamps, casting a warm glow on the faces of the believers gathered there. The air is filled with the scent of incense burning in the corner, creating a sense of reverence and peace.
Among the group of believers are Phoebe, a kind-hearted widow known for her generosity, and Timothy, a young disciple eager to learn from the apostle Paul’s teachings. They have come together with other members of the church to study and reflect on the words of Paul’s letter to the Colossians.
As they sit in a circle on cushions spread across the floor, their faces are illuminated by the flickering light as they listen intently to the words being read aloud. The room is filled with a sense of unity and love as they ponder the profound message of putting on the new self in Christ and setting their minds on things above, as mentioned in Colossians 3:3-4.
What is Colossians 3:3-4 about?
This verse, Colossians 3:3, is a powerful reminder of the transformation that occurs when someone becomes a follower of Christ. It speaks to the idea of dying to one’s old self, old desires, and old ways of thinking, and being reborn in Christ. This death represents a turning away from a life lived in pursuit of worldly things and embracing a new life centered on Christ. We find our true identity in Him by surrendering to Christ and allowing Him to lead, guide, and influence every aspect of our lives. This verse encourages believers to live in a way that reflects this new identity and to find security, purpose, and fulfillment in their relationship with Christ.
Imagine the freedom that comes from letting go of past mistakes, shame, and insecurities, and stepping into a new life hidden in Christ. It’s a profound shift from seeking validation and fulfillment through worldly achievements or possessions to finding these things in the grace and love of Jesus. We are invited to live in the joy, peace, and security that comes from being rooted in a relationship with Him by recognizing that our true life is now hidden with Christ in God. This verse challenges us to consider where we are seeking our identity and worth and encourages us to shift our focus to Christ, who offers an unshakeable foundation for our lives. It invites us to reflect on the transformation that has taken place in us through our faith in Christ and to live in a way that reflects this new reality.
Understanding what Colossians 3:3-4 really means
In Colossians 3:3-4, the Apostle Paul addresses the believers in Colossae, emphasizing the transformative nature of their faith in Christ. He speaks of a profound spiritual reality, stating, “For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” Paul’s intention in writing to the Colossians was to strengthen their faith, remind them of their identity in Christ, and encourage them to live in light of the hope of His return.
When Paul mentions, “For you died,” he is referring to the believer’s spiritual death to their old self and sinful nature. Just as Christ was crucified and buried, believers are called to crucify their old selves with Him, as expressed in Romans 6:6. This act symbolizes a complete break from the power of sin and a new life in Christ, where the old has passed away, and the new has come.
The phrase, “And your life is now hidden with Christ in God,” underscores the security and protection found in Christ. This concept echoes Galatians 2:20, where Paul speaks of living by faith in the Son of God, finding a new identity and purpose in Him. By being hidden with Christ in God, believers are shielded from the attacks of the enemy and can rest assured in the safety of their Savior.
“When Christ, who is your life, appears,” highlights the central role of Christ in the believer’s existence. Just as Paul declares in Philippians 1:21, where he states that his life is centered on Christ, believers are called to live each day with a focus on honoring and glorifying Him. Christ is not merely a part of their lives but the very essence and purpose of their being.
The promise that “you also will appear with him in glory” points to the future hope of believers. This assurance of sharing in Christ’s glory and experiencing eternal life with Him is a source of great comfort and encouragement. As 1 John 3:2 mentions, believers will be like Him when He appears, reflecting His character and enjoying His presence for all eternity.
In today’s world, the message of dying to self and finding new life in Christ remains as relevant as ever. Many people seek identity and security in temporary things such as success, relationships, or material possessions. However, true fulfillment and lasting security can only be found in Christ, who offers a transformative relationship that transcends earthly circumstances.
Consider the story of Sarah, who struggled with anxiety and self-doubt until she embraced her identity in Christ. Through prayer, study of God’s Word, and the support of her Christian community, Sarah experienced a profound shift in her perspective. She found peace in knowing that her life was hidden with Christ, secure in His love, and looked forward to the promise of appearing with Him in glory. This transformation brought her a newfound sense of purpose, confidence, and joy that surpassed anything she had previously known.
As we reflect on Colossians 3:3-4, may we be reminded of the profound truths it holds for our lives today. Let us consider what it means to die to self, find our identity in Christ, and eagerly anticipate His return. May we live each day with the assurance that our lives are hidden with Christ in God, secure in His love, and filled with the hope of appearing with Him in glory.
What does it mean to set our minds on things above?
Setting our minds on things above means shifting our focus from earthly desires, material possessions, and worldly concerns to spiritual matters and heavenly realities. It involves orienting our thoughts, priorities, and perspectives towards the eternal kingdom of God rather than being consumed by temporary, fleeting things of this world. We acknowledge the supremacy of Christ and seek to align our thoughts and actions with His will and purposes by fixing our minds on things above.
This mindset shift requires intentional effort and a conscious decision to prioritize spiritual growth, seeking God’s kingdom first in all areas of our lives. It involves cultivating a heavenly perspective, filtering our thoughts and decisions through the lens of God’s Word, and constantly seeking to honor and glorify Him in everything we do. Setting our minds on things above also involves seeking after spiritual treasures and eternal rewards rather than being entangled in the worries and distractions of this world. Ultimately, living with an eternal perspective is a call to remember that our true citizenship is in heaven and our ultimate aim is to be with Christ for all eternity.
Application
Think about Colossians 3:3-4 like this: Are you investing your time and energy in what really matters? Just like we hustle for our family’s future, let’s prioritize eternal treasures over temporary gains. Focus on what lasts: the promise of unity with Christ. It’s time to shift our mindset and actions toward this eternal promise. Are you ready to align your life with the kingdom that awaits?
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.