Colossians - Part 11

AN IDENTITY MINDSET RESET

Colossians 3:1-4

Meeting Purpose

To discuss Colossians 3:1-4 and explore the concept of identity in Christ, focusing on seeking heavenly things and setting our minds on Christ.

Key Takeaways

-             Our identity in Christ involves being raised with Him, requiring us to seek and set our minds on heavenly things

-             There's a crucial distinction between seeking (actively pursuing) and setting our minds (maintaining focus) on things above

-             Our true identity is hidden with Christ in God, providing security and a new perspective on earthly challenges

-             Anticipating Christ's return should impact how we approach daily life, especially during difficult times

Topics

Union with Christ

-             Believers are spiritually united with Christ in His death, burial, resurrection, and exaltation

-             This union is the means by which we receive justification, sanctification, and glorification

-             It's an unbreakable bond sustained by the Holy Spirit, providing a new identity in Christ

Commands for Believers

1. Seek the things above:

     - A deliberate, continuous commitment to heavenly values

     - Contrasts with false teachings that emphasize earthly situations

     - Starts from the heavenly realm and applies to earthly circumstances

2. Set your mind on things above:

     - Focuses on maintaining an inner attitude and orientation of the will

     - Contrasts with setting minds on earthly things

     - Involves aligning heart and mind with God's priorities

Identity Reset

 - Personal identity consists of beliefs about oneself

 - Biblical view doesn't separate heart and mind like Western thinking

 - Salvation provides new minds and hearts, changing our affections

 - Cultivating a Christ-centered mindset involves:

     - Daily spiritual disciplines

     - Developing gratitude

     - Guarding heart and mind

     - Engaging in selfless service

Hidden with Christ

-             Believers' lives are "hidden" (encrypted, preserved) with Christ in God

-             Suggests security and intimacy in relationship with God

-             Challenges worldly understanding and approach to fears and struggles

Next Steps

1.       Reflect on how our identity in Christ challenges focus on earthly success, health, and wealth

2.       Consider how anticipating Christ's return impacts daily life, especially during challenging times

3.       Actively engage in practices that cultivate a mindset focused on Christ and eternity

4.       Guard against distractions and negative influences that pull focus away from heavenly things

5.       Remember and reflect on God's faithfulness in past experiences to build confidence in His ongoing work