If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

COLOSSIANS 3:1KJV
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Colossians 3:1 (KJV)

What does Colossians 3:1 mean?

Colossians 3:1 tells believers that if they share in Christ’s resurrection, they should focus on what is above—where Christ is, at God’s right hand. The verse calls for a mindset turned toward heavenly things, not just earthly concerns.

Paul is writing to Christians in Colossae, reminding them of their new identity because of their connection to Jesus. The verse uses the image of Christ sitting at God’s right hand to show his authority and victory. Paul’s point is that sharing in Christ’s life should shape what believers value and seek.

The Greek behind Colossians 3:1

  • The word “risen” is from συνεγείρω (synegeirō), which means “raised together with.” This highlights that believers are not just following Christ’s example but are spiritually sharing in his resurrection.
  • The word “seek” is ζητέω (zēteō), which often means to actively pursue or strive for something. Paul is urging readers to make heavenly things their aim, not just to think about them occasionally.
  • The phrase “above” is ἄνω (anō), meaning “up” or “above,” pointing to a focus beyond the present world.
  • “Sitteth” comes from ἐστιν (estin, “is”) and καθήμενος (kathēmenos, “sitting”), emphasizing that Christ is currently reigning with God, not just in the past or future.

Why Colossians 3:1 matters

  • Colossians 3:1 clarifies that Christian life is not just about avoiding wrong but about actively seeking what belongs to Christ’s realm.
  • The verse connects the believer’s spiritual life directly to Christ’s present position and authority, not just his past work.
  • This verse sets the stage for the practical instructions that follow, rooting them in a new identity and perspective rather than just rules.

Where else these words appear

“ye” Greek G4891 · used in 3 verses

  • Ephesians 2:6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
  • Colossians 2:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.

“above” Greek G507 · used in 9 verses

  • John 2:7 Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.
  • John 11:41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.
  • Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

“where” Greek G3757 · used in 27 verses

  • Matthew 2:9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.
  • Luke 24:28 And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further.
  • Acts 25:10 Then said Paul, I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest.

“hand” Greek G1188 · used in 53 verses

  • Matthew 5:29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
  • Mark 16:5 And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.
  • Romans 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.