Colossians 3:1-4 (KJV) states, "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory."

This passage from the book of Colossians offers a profound and meaningful message to Christians, encouraging them to focus on the spiritual and eternal rather than the earthly and temporal aspects of life. In this commentary, we will explore the themes, context, and symbolism of Colossians 3:1-4 in the King James Version of the Bible.

Context:

The apostle Paul wrote the letter to the Colossians while he was imprisoned in Rome. The purpose of the letter was to address the false teachings that were infiltrating the church in Colossae. These false teachings included elements of Jewish legalism, Gnostic philosophy and asceticism. In the passages leading up to Colossians 3:1-4, Paul emphasizes the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ, warning against being captivated by the hollow and deceptive philosophies of the world. He urges the Colossians to remain rooted and built up in Christ, and to live a life that is characterized by thankfulness, peace, and unity within the body of believers.

Themes:

1. Identity in Christ: The passage begins by affirming the believers' union with Christ, stating, "If ye then be risen with Christ." This points to the spiritual reality of being united with Christ in his death and resurrection, and the new identity that believers have in him. This theme of identity in Christ is central to the Christian faith and is a recurring theme in Paul's writings.

2. Heavenly-mindedness: The passage exhorts believers to "seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God." This points to the importance of prioritizing spiritual matters and heavenly realities over earthly concerns. It calls for a mindset that is focused on the eternal rather than the temporary, and a longing for the presence of Christ.

3. Hidden life in Christ: Paul's use of the phrase "your life is hid with Christ in God" speaks to the security and protection that believers have in Christ. This hiddenness implies a sense of safety and intimacy with Christ, as well as the idea that our true lives are found in him rather than in the world.

Symbolism:

1. The right hand of God: The right hand is often used symbolically in the Bible to denote power, authority, and favor. Christ's position at the right hand of God signifies his exalted status and reign as the King of kings and Lord of lords.

2. Appearance with Christ in glory: This statement speaks to the future hope of believers, pointing to the promise of being united with Christ in his glorious return. It symbolizes the ultimate fulfillment of the believer's identity in Christ and the eternal reward that awaits them.

Overall, Colossians 3:1-4 in the King James Version of the Bible carries a profound and timeless message for believers. It urges them to fix their eyes and affections on the things above, reminding them of their identity in Christ and the hope of eternity with him. In a world filled with distractions and temporal concerns, this passage serves as a powerful exhortation to live with a heavenly perspective and to find true fulfillment in Christ alone.