Colossians 3:1 — Darby Translation (DARBY) (2026-08-27)

Historical lead-up

In the book of Colossians, the Apostle Paul writes to a young church facing various challenges, including false teachings and distractions from the core message of Christ. Paul emphasizes the supremacy of Christ and the importance of living a life that reflects this truth. As he transitions into chapter 3, he encourages believers to focus on their new identity in Christ, which is foundational for their spiritual growth and daily living.

Why this verse was written

This verse was written to remind the Colossian believers of their transformation through faith in Christ. Paul aims to encourage them to embrace their new life and identity, urging them to seek spiritual realities rather than being consumed by worldly concerns. His audience consists of both new and mature believers who need guidance on how to live out their faith in a challenging environment.

True meaning

In this verse, Paul states that if believers have been raised with Christ, they should seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. The phrase “raised with the Christ” signifies the spiritual resurrection that occurs when one accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior. Paul is addressing the believers directly, urging them to shift their focus from earthly matters to heavenly ones, emphasizing the importance of aligning their lives with Christ’s eternal perspective.

Living it today

This verse invites us to examine our priorities and what we seek in our daily lives. To “seek the things above” means to pursue values and goals that reflect God’s kingdom—such as love, kindness, and justice—rather than being preoccupied with material possessions or societal status. In our relationships, we can encourage one another to focus on spiritual growth and support each other in prayer. Obedience to this call involves daily choices that align with our identity in Christ, fostering a deeper connection with God and a more meaningful life.

What follows

The following verses build on this theme by instructing believers to set their minds on heavenly things and reminding them of their new identity in Christ. Colossians 3:2 emphasizes the importance of focusing on spiritual matters rather than earthly distractions. Verses 3 and 4 highlight that believers’ true lives are hidden with Christ and that they will ultimately share in His glory. This continuity encourages us to maintain a heavenly perspective, reinforcing the idea that our current struggles are temporary and that our ultimate hope lies in our future with Christ.