Living Transformed Lives: Setting Our Minds On Things Above Colossians 3:1-2 Series

Living Transformed Lives: Setting Our Minds on Things Above Colossians 3:1-2

Introduction:

Dear brothers and sisters, as we gather today, let us turn our hearts and minds to the eternal truths found in God's Word. In Colossians 3:1-2, the Apostle Paul offers profound wisdom on how we should approach life as followers of Christ. Let us explore these verses together and discover how we can live transformed lives by setting our minds on things above.

Colossians 3:1-2 (NLT) "Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth."

This verse calls believers to focus their minds on heavenly things rather than earthly concerns. It reminds us that our identity is now found in Christ, and as such, our priorities should align with His kingdom. By setting our minds on heavenly realities, we cultivate a mindset of faith, hope, and eternal perspective.

Point 1: Embracing Our Identity in Christ

Paul begins by reminding believers of their new identity in Christ. Through faith, we have been raised to new life with Him. This spiritual transformation is not merely a change in behaviour but a profound shift in our core identity. As children of God, we are called to live in the reality of our heavenly citizenship. This means aligning our thoughts, desires, and ambitions with the eternal kingdom of God.

Paul's emphasis on being "raised to new life with Christ" echoes the language of baptism and speaks to the believer's union with Christ in His death and resurrection (Romans 6:4).

Romans 6:4 (NLT): "For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives."

This passage speaks of our union with Christ in His death and resurrection. Through baptism, we identify with His death, burial, and resurrection, symbolising our spiritual rebirth and new life in Him. As Christ was raised to new life, so are we, empowered to live victoriously over sin and walk in the newness of life.

This union signifies a complete transformation of our spiritual condition, marking the beginning of a new identity in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT): "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!"

In Christ, we experience a radical transformation—a complete renewal of our inner being. The old, sinful nature is crucified, and we are made new creations in Him. This transformation is not superficial but penetrates to the core of our being, impacting every aspect of our lives.

"As followers of Christ, our primary allegiance is to His kingdom. Our identity is not defined by the standards of this world but by our union with Christ and our citizenship in heaven." - John Piper

Philippians 3:20-21 (NLT): "But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Saviour. He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control."

As citizens of heaven, our ultimate hope is in the return of Christ and the transformation of our bodies to be like His glorious body. This future reality motivates us to live with anticipation and expectancy, knowing that our present sufferings are temporary compared to the glory that awaits us.

Ephesians 2:6 (NLT): "For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus."

Through our union with Christ, we are not only raised to new life but also seated with Him in the heavenly realms. This speaks of our spiritual position and authority as believers, empowered by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. Our lives are no longer defined by earthly limitations but by our heavenly position in Christ.

Point 2: Setting Our Minds on Heavenly Realities

Having established our identity in Christ, Paul exhorts believers to set their minds on the realities of heaven. This is a deliberate choice to focus on eternal truths rather than the temporary concerns of this world. By fixing our gaze on Christ, who reigns supreme at the right hand of God, we gain perspective and find strength to navigate life's challenges with faith and hope.

The phrase "set your sights on the realities of heaven" implies a deliberate and continuous action. It involves directing our thoughts, affections, and priorities towards heavenly things, where Christ is exalted as King. This mindset enables us to live with purpose and conviction, guided by the eternal truths of God's Word.