In Christ, We Have A New Life
In Christ, We Have a New Life
Bro Tammy Ganni | 20 April 2025
A Reflection on Colossians 3:1–2 and Supporting Scriptures
“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”
— Colossians 3:1–2 (NKJV)
When we come to Christ, everything changes. Colossians 3:1–2 gives us both a powerful identity and a divine calling. We are no longer who we once were—we have been raised with Christ. And because we are raised, we are called to live with new desires, new direction, and a renewed mind. The focus of our life shifts from the temporary to the eternal—from the things of earth to the things above, where Christ reigns.
This transformation begins with what Christ has done for us. Colossians 2:11–12 explains that through faith and baptism, we were buried with Him and raised through the power of God. Romans 6:3–4 reinforces this truth: “Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Our spiritual resurrection is not symbolic—it is a real, inward change that sets us on a new path, a new purpose, and a new pursuit.
But with this new life comes a clear instruction: “Seek those things which are above.” Seeking is an active, ongoing effort. It means desiring what God desires, valuing what He values, and constantly turning our attention toward heaven. This isn’t a one-time event—it’s a daily calling. Many start this journey with passion, but over time, distractions and comfort can dull our pursuit. That’s why Paul urges us not only to seek but to set our minds—to fix our thoughts and affections—on things above.
This shift in mindset is echoed in Philippians 3:7–9, where Paul says he counts all things as loss compared to the excellence of knowing Christ. He no longer relies on earthly status or achievements, but on the righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus. Our new life in Christ gives us a new value system—one rooted in eternity.
However, being raised with Christ does not mean instant spiritual maturity. As 1 Peter 2:2 reminds us, we begin as newborn babes, desiring the pure milk of the Word so we may grow. Growth is a process that requires effort and grace. 2 Peter 1:5–10 outlines how we mature in our faith by adding virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, and love. These qualities, when present in our lives, show that we are walking in the fullness of our new life.
This new life also changes how we treat others. Romans 14 reminds us not to let our personal freedom harm our brothers and sisters. The kingdom of God is not about external rituals but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Christ calls us to build up, not tear down—to edify, not offend. As Colossians 3:15–16 instructs, we are to let the peace of God rule in our hearts, live with thankfulness, and let His Word dwell in us richly, teaching and encouraging one another.
In Ephesians 2:1–6, we are reminded where we came from—we were dead in our trespasses, walking according to the world. But God, rich in mercy, made us alive together with Christ and seated us with Him in heavenly places. Our position has changed. We are no longer part of the fallen order—we are citizens of heaven. Colossians 1:13 says we’ve been rescued from darkness and transferred into the Kingdom of the Son of His love. So why live as if we still belong to the world?
This calls for dedication and sacrifice. Romans 12:1 urges us to present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God. That is our reasonable service. We no longer live for ourselves—we live for Christ, who loved us and gave Himself for us. And as we seek first His Kingdom (Matthew 6:33), everything else will fall into place.
To follow Christ means to imitate Him (1 Corinthians 11:1), to make His life the model for our own. Our goal is not comfort or personal gain—it’s to know Him, to love Him, and to reflect Him. That’s what it means to live the new life.
So, as we reflect on Colossians 3:1–2, let it remind us of who we are and what we’ve been called to. We’ve been raised with Christ—so let’s live like it. Let’s seek heaven, set our minds on eternity, grow in grace, build one another up, and offer our lives in service to the One who gave us everything.
This is not just a better life.
This is a brand new life—in Christ.
