What does it mean to be “hidden in Christ,” as described in Colossians 3:3 (“For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God”), and how does this concept relate to our earthly existence and spiritual growth? Specifically, I’m interested in understanding:
* What aspects of our “old selves” are we meant to leave behind when we die with Christ, and how does this “death” translate into practical changes in our daily lives?
* How does being “hidden” in Christ protect us from the influences of the world, the flesh, and the devil, and what does this protection practically look like?
* Does being hidden in Christ mean we are passive or inactive in our faith? How do we reconcile this concept with the call to be salt and light in the world, and how does being hidden in Christ empower us to live out our faith more effectively?
* What practices or disciplines help us to cultivate this sense of being hidden in Christ, and how do we avoid the pitfall of this becoming merely a theological concept rather than a lived reality?
* How does the concept of being hidden in Christ relate to our identity? If our life is hidden, how do we understand our purpose, calling, and individual expression within that framework?
Answer
To be "hidden in Christ" is a multifaceted concept rooted in Christian theology, signifying a profound and intimate union with Jesus Christ that results in protection, security, identity, and transformation. It suggests a believer’s life is so intertwined with Christ’s that their true self and destiny are found in Him. The concept is primarily derived from Colossians 3:3, which states, "For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God."
Here’s a breakdown of what it means:
1. Union with Christ: Being hidden in Christ denotes a deep, spiritual union that transcends a mere intellectual belief. It signifies a complete identification with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. Through faith, believers are united with Christ in such a way that His life becomes their life, and their identity is inseparable from His. This union is often described as being "in Christ" or "Christ in you, the hope of glory."
2. Security and Protection: To be hidden implies safety and refuge. Just as something hidden is shielded from view and harm, a believer hidden in Christ is protected from the wrath of God, the condemnation of the law, and the ultimate power of sin and death. This doesn’t necessarily mean believers are shielded from all earthly suffering, but it assures them of God’s unwavering presence, provision, and ultimate victory in their lives, regardless of their circumstances. This security comes from being covered by Christ’s righteousness, which atones for sin and satisfies God’s justice.
3. New Identity: When a believer is hidden in Christ, their old self, characterized by sin and separation from God, dies. They receive a new identity rooted in Christ’s righteousness and holiness. This new identity is not merely a superficial change but a fundamental transformation of the heart and mind. They are no longer defined by their past sins or failures but by their new standing as children of God, co-heirs with Christ, and members of His body.
4. Transformation and Sanctification: Being hidden in Christ is not a passive state but a dynamic process. As believers abide in Christ, they are gradually transformed into His likeness. The Holy Spirit empowers them to put off their old sinful habits and to cultivate the virtues of Christ, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This process of sanctification is ongoing throughout their lives as they submit to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and conform to the image of Christ.
5. Focused on Eternal Perspective: Because the believer’s life is hidden with Christ in God, their focus shifts from earthly pursuits to eternal realities. They begin to value what God values and to prioritize His kingdom above all else. Their hope is not in temporal things that are fleeting and uncertain, but in the eternal promises of God, which are secured by Christ’s finished work on the cross.
6. Known by God: While hidden from the world in the sense that their true nature is not fully understood or appreciated by those who don’t share their faith, believers are intimately known by God. He sees them not as they are in themselves, but as they are in Christ—perfectly righteous and beloved. This knowledge is a source of comfort, assurance, and empowerment.
7. Kingdom Citizenship: Being hidden in Christ signifies citizenship in God’s kingdom. Believers are no longer citizens of the world but are ambassadors of Christ, representing His kingdom on earth. This new allegiance shapes their values, priorities, and actions. They are called to live in accordance with God’s will and to advance His kingdom through their words and deeds.
In summary, to be hidden in Christ is to experience a radical and transformative union with Him that provides security, a new identity, ongoing sanctification, an eternal perspective, and intimate knowledge by God, culminating in kingdom citizenship. It’s a life lived not for self, but for Christ and His glory.
Pray This Prayer
Dear Lord, Jesus,
We come before you today with hearts seeking to understand the mystery of being hidden in you. We long to grasp the depth and beauty of this sacred union, this intimate connection you offer to all who believe.
What does it mean, Lord, to be hidden in you? Does it mean to be sheltered from the storms of life, protected from every pain and hardship? We know that trials will come, and suffering is a part of this world. So, we pray for wisdom to understand a deeper truth.
Is it to be hidden from the judgment of the world, shielded from its harsh criticisms and condemning gaze? We yearn to be accepted, but we understand that true acceptance comes only from you.
Perhaps it means to be hidden from ourselves, Lord. To be freed from our own self-doubt, our own failings, our own limiting beliefs. To be lost in your love, consumed by your grace, and defined by your righteousness.
We pray that we may be so intertwined with you that our identity becomes intertwined with yours. That our thoughts become aligned with your thoughts, our will becomes submitted to your will, and our actions reflect your character.
Help us to dwell in the secret place of the Most High, to abide under the shadow of the Almighty. Teach us to rest in your presence, to find our strength and solace in your unwavering love.
May being hidden in you mean that when people look at us, they see you shining through. May our lives be a testament to your goodness, your mercy, and your transforming power.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for this incredible gift of belonging, of being securely held within your loving embrace. Help us to live fully and faithfully, knowing we are safe and secure, forever hidden in you.
In your precious name, we pray. Amen.