In a culture obsessed with self-identity and social media personas, what does it mean that our identity is “hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:3)?

Colossians 3:3 says, “For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” This means that the believer’s truest identity is no longer found in self-promotion, appearance, popularity, achievements, failures, feelings, or public approval. It is found in Jesus Christ.

Paul begins the chapter by saying, “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above” (Colossians 3:1). A Christian has died to the old life of sin and self-rule, and has been raised to a new life in Christ. This does not mean the believer disappears as a person. Rather, the believer’s life is now secured, defined, and protected in Christ.

This is very different from the world’s view of identity. Much of modern culture tells people to create an image, build a personal brand, gain attention, and measure worth by how others respond. Social media can make people feel pressured to constantly prove themselves. But Scripture teaches that our value is not created by visibility. Our value comes from being made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), redeemed by Christ’s blood (1 Peter 1:18–19), and accepted in Him (Ephesians 1:6).

To be “hidden with Christ in God” also means our identity is secure even when others misunderstand, reject, or overlook us. The world may not see the full work God is doing in the heart, but God does. One day, when Christ appears, His people will also appear with Him in glory (Colossians 3:4).

This truth frees Christians from living for applause. We do not need to invent ourselves apart from God. We need to surrender ourselves to Christ. The new life is then seen in humility, purity, mercy, forgiveness, love, and obedience (Colossians 3:5–14).

So, having our identity hidden with Christ means we belong to Him. Our deepest life is safe in Him. We are not defined by the image we project, but by the Savior who redeemed us and is transforming us into His likeness.