Paul here sets forth a classic if/then exhortation. The first half, “If then you were raised with Christ” (1). This refers to our redemption. Christ was raised from the dead and ascended to heaven. When we submit to God, in baptism we are in the same way raised to “walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4).
This newness of life is described here by Paul. We are to “seek” and “set your [our] minds” on “things which are above” rather than “things on the earth” (1-2). We have been sanctified by God, and our lives should reflect the holiness to which we are called.
Redemption is described by Jesus as being “born again.” (John 3). We are born again, as we have “died to sin” (Romans 6:10). Now we are “alive to God in Christ Jesus (Romans 6:11), or as stated in our text our “life is hidden with Christ in God” (3).
The end of redemption is reward. God has promised this reward to all who have been born again. When Christ comes again, “you also will appear with Him in glory” (4). (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:49).
