“Since, then, you have BEEN RAISED with Christ:
- SEEK those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God: Shelter, food, clothing, these things the Gentiles seek. “…your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:32-33)
- SET your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God: Paul is implying that we have the power of governing our thoughts, and so are responsible for them. If our thoughts are ordered well, our outward life will follow. “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—MEDITATE on (logizomai: consider, determine) these things.” (Philippians 4:8)
- For YOU DIED, and your life is now HIDDEN WITH CHRIST in God: To be hidden in Christ Jesus means it is no longer you who lives, for you have died, and now CHRIST LIVES IN YOU. “God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2:6).
- When Christ, WHO IS YOUR LIFE, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory: This happens because, “For in Christ dwells ALL THE FULLNESS of the Godhead bodily…” (Colossians 2:9)
- PUT TO DEATH, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry:
- Because of these, the WRATH OF GOD IS COMING.” (Colossians 3:1-6) Almost all the writers of the New Testament spoke of this day when the WRATH OF GOD would be poured out on the earth. Why is it that so few of us speak about it today? WHY AREN’T WE SOUNDING THE ALARM? “Therefore, you also be ready, for THE SON OF MAN IS COMING at an hour you do not expect.” (Matthew 24:44)
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham