Set Your Mind on Things Above, Not on Things on the Earth

In this weeks Church Service from our Church in Clacton-on-Sea, we explore: Are you living for what is temporary or what is eternal? In this sermon Pastor Stephen Clayden teaches through Colossians chapter 3, calling believers to lift their focus from the distractions of this world and fix their minds on the things above. The message challenges Christians to live out their new identity in Christ through holiness, love, and godly conduct in every area of life including relationships, work, and the home.

Pastor Stephen Clayden explains that after establishing the believer’s identity in Christ in earlier chapters, Paul now turns to practical Christian living. Because believers have been raised with Christ, they are called to set their minds on eternal things rather than earthly concerns. The sermon highlights the importance of putting to death sinful behaviours such as impurity, covetousness, anger, and deceit, recognising that these belong to the old life. Instead believers are to put on the new self, marked by righteousness, humility, kindness, and love. The teaching also emphasises unity in Christ where all social and cultural barriers are removed, calling the church to bear with one another and forgive as they have been forgiven. Pastor Clayden further explores how this transformation affects everyday life, including speech, attitudes, and conduct. He also explains the structure of the Christian household, addressing relationships between husbands and wives, parents and children, and workers and employers, all rooted in serving the Lord. Ultimately the message stresses living with an eternal perspective, storing up treasure in heaven and serving faithfully in light of the coming judgment and reward.

This sermon challenges viewers to examine where their focus truly lies and whether their lives reflect a heavenly perspective. It provides clear biblical teaching on how to live as a follower of Christ in a world full of distractions and temptations. By walking through Colossians chapter 3, the message encourages believers to pursue holiness, strengthen relationships, and live in a way that honours God in every area of life while keeping eternity in view.