Let Us Seek Those Things Which Are Above (Colossians 3:1-2)
Introduction: 1.In our lesson we are concentrating on a very important admonition that is given in Colossians 3:1 -- to "seek those things which are above." 2.In studying this admonition we need to point out that: a.it applies to those who have been raised with Christ b.it involves setting our affection [mind] on the right things. 1)We are to set our affection "on things above." 2)We are not to set our affection "on things on the earth."
A.The process of being raised with Christ is explained in Colossians 2:12. B.A more detailed explanation is given in Romans 6:3-7. C.We learn from Romans 6:17-18 that those who are raised with Christ become "servants of righteousness." D.As servants of righteousness we are to seek those things which are above.
A.Those who have been raised with Christ must not set the affection "on things on the earth." 1.In vs.5-11 a number of "members which are upon the earth" are listed. a.These earthly members are to be mortified and put off. b.We are shown why we must not set our affection upon these earthly members. 2.Vs.5 mentions several earthly members that are to be mortified by those who have been raised with Christ. 3.We learn from vs.6-7 why we must mortify these members. 4.In vs.8-9a additional earthly members are listed that are to be put off. 5.We learn from vs.9b-11 why we must put off these members. 6.Additional passages dealing with these issues: a.1 Corinthians 6:9-10 b.Galatians 5:19-21 c.Ephesians 4:25-31. 7.Let us keep in mind the words that Jesus prayed on behalf of His apostles (John 17:14-17). B.Those who have been raised with Christ must set the affection "on things above." 1.In vs.12-14 a number of members from above are listed. a.These members from above are to be put on. b.We are shown why we must put them on. 2.Members from above that we are to put on include mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, forbearance, forgiveness, and love. 3.Those who have been raised with Christ are to put on these members from above because we are: a."the elect of God" b."holy and beloved" c.to follow the example of Christ. 4.Additional passages dealing with these issues: a.Galatians 5:22-25 b.Ephesians 4:32-5:2
Conclusion:
1.Colossians 3:4 supplies motivation for following the instructions we have studied -- appearing with the Lord in glory when He returns. 2.Have you been raised with Christ? 3.Where is your affection? a.Is it "on things on the earth?" b.Is it "on things above?"
