Chapter 3:1-4 Seeking the Things Above

This week we begin diving into Chapter 3! Let's focus on verses 1-4. As we look at the beginning of chapter 3, it is important for us to remember how it connects to chapter 2. Look back at chapter 2 and ask yourself, what two points did Paul make in 2:11-13? Write them down in your journal.  Now look at 2:20-23, ask yourself what point did Paul make about believers having died with Christ? Now as we look at chapter 3, Paul continues with another point about having died with Christ. What point is he making in 3:1? Write your answer down in your journal.

According to verse 1, what are those who have been raised by Christ to do? Answer in your journal. In verse 1 Paul tells the church to keep seeking the things above. What does it mean to seek the things above? Let's turn our attention to word studies and cross references to find out.  Go to Blue Letter Bible and write down the definition of "keep seeking"in your journal. Keep seeking in in the active voice, go here and read what that means. Write down how knowing this helps you understand this verse better.

Now on to our cross references! Ask yourself: According to verse 1, where is Christ and what does that have to do with seeking the things above? Look up each verse below & write in your journal what this verse tells you about the idea of seeking the things above (were Christ is).

• Matthew 6:25-34
• Galatians 1:10

Consider how you might seek the things above in your daily life. Write down what God shows you in your journal.

Now let's look at verse 2. Using Blue Letter Bible look up the definition for "set your mind." Consider how you might set your mind on things above, not earthly things on a daily basis. Write down your thoughts in your journal.

How does doing what we see in Col 3:1-2 help us control the flesh? What is the flesh? Let's look up some cross references to give us more understanding. Look up the cross references below and write in your journal what you learn about the flesh.

• Galatians 5:16-25
• Romans 13:14
• 2 Timothy 2:22
• 1 Thessalonians 5:22

Now let's look at Colossians 3:3-4. In your journal write out what these verses have to do with verses 1-2. Let's look at some cross references that will help us make this connection:

• Philippians 1:20-21
• Romans 8
• 2 Corinthians 5:17
• Philippians 3:8-11

There is good news! Read the verse below and write down what you learn about when Christ is revealed:

• 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
• 2 Corinthians 5:1-10

When we meet this week we will bring this all full circle. It's okay if it doesn't make sense right now. Press on, write down what you learn, and we will discuss it all together on Thursday night.