Contradiction with Matthew 6:19
This verse advises against laying up treasures on earth, while Colossians 3:1 encourages seeking things above, which could be interpreted as not focusing on any earthly matters.
Matthew 6:19: Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
Contradiction with Philippians 3:20
This verse suggests that our citizenship is in heaven, which aligns more with a heavenly focus, while Colossians 3:1 emphasizes actively seeking things above, which could imply action rather than mere recognition of citizenship.
Philippians 3:20: For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: [conversation...: or, we live or conduct ourselves as citizens of heaven, or, for obtaining heaven]
Contradiction with James 4:4
This verse states that friendship with the world is enmity with God, highlighting a division between earthly and divine, potentially contradicting Colossians 3:1 if the "things above" are interpreted as including earthly aspects.
James 4:4: Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
Contradiction with Luke 12:33
Suggests selling possessions and giving to charity, hinting at active earthly engagement, whereas Colossians 3:1's focus is on seeking heavenly things.
Luke 12:33: Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.
Contradiction with 1 John 2:15
Advises not to love the world or anything in the world, twisting the interpretation of Colossians 3:1 if "things above" include worldly aspects.
1 John 2:15: Love not the world, neither the things [that are] in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.