Two Resolutions

Colossians 3:1-4, If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.  2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.  3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.  4 When Christ, who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.

What are the goals set before us in this passage?

1. Seek those things above

…where Christ is seated – alive and at rest – He fully finished the work

He is seated – He has indeed conquered death and the grave

…at the right hand of God – in honor, power, rule and preparation

He awaits the word – to go meet the Spirit, bringing His bride out of the fallen world

2. Set your mind on things above

…things above – NOT on THINGS like cars, money, houses, trophies, smart phones or degrees
things above – love, joy, peace, beauty and worth/purpose in giving God glory

…not on things of the earth – health, wealth, weal (happiness) or worldly peace

…you died! – when you get saved, you die!  It is no longer your life, it is His!

…life is hidden with Christ in God – it is His will, way, Word and works that mark us

….when Christ who is our life appears – He comes!  He calls!  Maybe today!  Maybe in 2022!
Be ready!  Have a short list of things to clean up or clear up!

….you will appear with Him in glory – what a glorious future!

Not 2022 nor the White House nor Davos has the last word – God does!

To whom are these charges and blessings directed?  “If then you were raised with Christ” – “you” is who?

Who is the “you”?

2:6, As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him,

2:13-14, And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. 

2:20, Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations

What does “you being raised with Christ” mean?

It means you have received Jesus as your Lord and desire to live for Him (walk), which means you agree with God that you were a sinner and outside of God’s family and that only by God’s power you are given a second life – a new life – which is only possible because Jesus dealt with the issues against you while on His cross.  For those “with Christ” it means a rejection of the ways of the world, of religion, of heritage of self-works or self-goodness but an embrace of Jesus as your life and hope.

So, the charges and blessings are contingent – “If” – on God’s salvation.

Are you saved?  Does He say so?

What will be your answer to Him if asked, “Why should I let you into My heaven?”

If saved – seek His presence and promises and set your mind on His will and way.

If saved – get ready and be ready – He cometh!!