Meaning of Colossians 3:2

Paul's exhortation in Colossians 3:2, "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things," is a foundational principle for Christian living, deeply rooted in the theological understanding of believers' new identity in Christ. The preceding verses (Colossians 3:1) establish that if believers have been raised with Christ, then their true life is now hidden with Christ in God. Therefore, this verse is not merely a suggestion for mental focus but a directive that flows from the radical transformation that occurs at conversion. The "things above" refer to the eternal, spiritual realities of God's kingdom, His purposes, and His character, while "earthly things" encompass the transient, material, and often sinful desires and concerns of the fallen world. This dichotomy calls for a reorientation of the believer's entire perspective and priorities, aligning their thoughts, desires, and actions with their new heavenly citizenship.

Context and Background

The Epistle to the Colossians was written by the Apostle Paul, likely while he was imprisoned (Colossians 4:18), to address a specific set of challenges faced by the church in Colossae. These challenges included a syncretistic heresy that blended elements of Judaism, Gnosticism, and possibly asceticism, which threatened to diminish the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ. Paul's overarching theme throughout the letter is the absolute preeminence of Christ as the head of the church and the fullness of God dwelling in Him (Colossians 1:15-20; 2:9-10). In this context, chapter 3 begins with a radical call to live out the implications of this new reality in Christ. Having been spiritually "raised with Christ," believers are now called to live a life that reflects this new, ascended status, a life distinct from the old, earthly one.

Key Themes and Messages

The central message of Colossians 3:2 is reorientation of the mind. This is not about suppressing all earthly concerns but about prioritizing them correctly. The "things above" represent the divine perspective, the eternal realities, and the will of God. The "earthly things" represent the temporal, the material, and the fleshly desires that are contrary to God's will. This verse emphasizes the importance of thought life in Christian discipleship. The mind is the battleground where the old nature and the new nature contend. Paul urges believers to intentionally direct their mental energy and focus towards God and His kingdom. It also speaks to spiritual priorities, urging believers to invest their mental and emotional resources in pursuits that have eternal value rather than those that are fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying.

Spiritual Significance and Application

The spiritual significance of this verse is profound. It calls for a conscious and continuous effort to cultivate a heavenly perspective. This involves actively engaging with Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with other believers, all of which help to keep our minds fixed on God. Practically, this means discerning what occupies our thoughts: are they dominated by anxieties about finances, career aspirations, social status, or the fleeting pleasures of the world, or are they focused on God's glory, His Word, and the advancement of His kingdom? It requires a disciplined mind, actively choosing to ponder eternal truths over transient desires. This intentional focus has a direct impact on behavior, as what we think about influences what we do.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse is a direct application of the concept of new creation in Christ. When a person becomes a Christian, they are born again, given a new spiritual life, and their citizenship is transferred to heaven (Philippians 3:20). Therefore, their perspective and allegiances should reflect this new reality. It echoes the teachings of Jesus Himself, who often spoke of seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33) and storing up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20). The entire narrative of redemption, from creation to the new heavens and new earth, points towards God's eternal purposes and the ultimate triumph of His reign, making the focus on "things above" a natural response for those who are united with Christ.

Analogies

One helpful analogy is that of a navigator on a ship. The navigator must constantly consult charts and compasses to set the ship's course toward a distant destination, rather than being distracted by every passing wave or shoreline. Similarly, Christians are called to set their mental "compass" towards God's eternal kingdom, allowing that ultimate goal to guide their daily decisions and thoughts, even amidst the storms and distractions of earthly life. Another analogy is that of investing. One would choose to invest in ventures that promise significant long-term returns rather than those with immediate but negligible gains. Believers are encouraged to "invest" their mental energy in pursuits that yield eternal rewards.

Relation to Other Verses

Colossians 3:2 is intricately linked with numerous other biblical passages. It directly supports Romans 12:2, which urges believers not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. The concept of setting one's mind on spiritual things is also found in Philippians 4:8, where believers are encouraged to think about whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy. Furthermore, it aligns with 1 Corinthians 2:14, which states that the natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he cannot understand them because they are spiritually discerned. The call to focus on the eternal is a constant theme, as seen in Hebrews 12:2, which speaks of Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.