Christ’s resurrection should not be viewed in isolation from humanity but one that inaugurated an entirely new realm or worldview in which we participate with God.

• Paul’s "if/then" construction sets up this different way of viewing life: the resurrection of Christ creates for humanity a new context, a new ground of being that changes the way we experience life. Changed living is not the means by which we seek to win salvation, but the necessary consequence of the new relationship to God in Christ into which we enter by faith.

• If baptism marks the end of life in the realm of darkness where elemental spirits hold sway, it also marks the initiation of life in the kingdom of light and love where the sole ruler is Christ.

 

Quote-C.S. Lewis:

A rejection, or in Scripture’s strong language, a crucifixion of the natural self is the passport to everlasting life. Nothing that has not died will be resurrected.

• Recall how this very familiar opening line has been abused: "She’s/He’s so heavenly minded . . . no earthly good!" Is that what Paul is saying of Christians? Heads in the air with feet on the ground?

• In what way/s does our perspective change because we are active participants in Christ’s historical resurrection event? How are we better earthly citizens because of our new resurrection connection?

 

You might begin with an example, a saying or popular song that reflects how this text has been abused through spiritualizing . . . that somehow Christians opt out of social involvement, skirt the tough issues of life because of their heavenly perspective. Media all too often portrays clergy and laity in smug sanctimonious attitudes.

• How is this true? How is it not true?

• Shift to the text and to context of this passage . . . surely, certainly that is precisely not what Paul is advocating! But if not that, then what? What is Paul saying about Christians? What does it mean to "seek the things that are above?"

• Use examples of deeply spiritual persons, those who are resurrection participants and yet who are actively, wholeheartedly, passionately involved in world and social issues.

• How has the resurrection impacted us? Are we disconnected or vitally connected?