Colossians 3:1 — Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV) (2026-08-27)

Historical lead-up

In the letter to the Colossians, the Apostle Paul addresses a young church facing challenges from false teachings and distractions. He emphasizes the supremacy of Christ and the importance of living a life that reflects this truth. As he writes, he encourages believers to remember their new identity in Christ and to focus on spiritual matters rather than worldly concerns.

Why this verse was written

This verse was written to remind the Colossians—and us today—of the transformative power of faith in Christ. Paul wants his audience to understand that because they have been spiritually resurrected with Christ, their priorities and desires should shift towards heavenly things. The purpose is to encourage believers to live out their faith in a way that honors God and reflects their new life in Him.

True meaning

In this verse, Paul is speaking directly to those who have accepted Christ and have experienced a spiritual rebirth. The phrase “if you have risen together with Christ” signifies that believers share in His resurrection and new life. The call to “seek the things that are above” urges them to focus on spiritual truths and values, where Christ reigns in glory at God’s right hand. This is a reminder that our true home and ultimate purpose lie in heaven, not in earthly pursuits.

Living it today

To live out this verse today, we can start by intentionally prioritizing our spiritual growth. This might include setting aside time for prayer, reading Scripture, and engaging in fellowship with other believers. We can also evaluate our daily choices and ask ourselves if they align with our identity in Christ. Seeking “the things that are above” can manifest in acts of kindness, serving others, and making decisions that reflect our faith and values, rather than simply following worldly trends.

What follows

The following verses build on this idea by encouraging 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. Verse 3 reassures us that our true life is secure in Christ, while verse 4 promises that when Christ returns, we will share in His glory. Together, these verses reinforce the call to live with an eternal perspective, reminding us that our lives are intertwined with Christ’s purpose and destiny.