Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
What does Colossians 3:2 mean?
As Christians are freed from the ceremonial law, they must walk the more closely with God in gospel obedience.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside Colossians 3:1-4 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Colossians 3:2
Set your affection - Margin, "or mind." Greek" think of" - φρονειτε phroneite. The thoughts should be occupied about the things where Christ now dwells, where our final home is to be, where our great interests are. Since we are raised from the death of sin, and are made to live anew, the great object of our contemplation should be the heavenly world. Not on things on the earth - Wealth, honor, pleasure. Our affections should not be fixed on houses and lands; on scenes of fashion and gaiety; on low and debasing enjoyments.
Key words
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Context in Colossians 3
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Colossians 3 belongs to the late movement of the book, especially the section often described as new life in Christ. Colossians magnifies Christ as image, creator, reconciler, head of the church, and the one in whom believers are complete. Read this chapter with the wider themes of supremacy of Christ, fullness, and reconciliation in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
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Verses on the fear of the Lord, wise speech, practical judgment, teachability, and the difference between biblical wisdom and mere cleverness.