“And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it” – Colossians 2:15
LIGHT FOR NOW: Your victory in Christ is always.
In verse 14, Paul referred to the forgiveness offered by God using two important terms. The first was the legal aspect where the debt and punishment are cancelled. The second is the restoration of the relationship we have with God. Paul also referred to God metaphorically crucifying sin; this implies a total rejection as well as death. In other words, God not only forgives our sins and gives us a restored relationship; He completely destroys and rejects that sin. Here in verse 15, Paul adds that through the cross, Jesus “disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame”. These authorities Paul references are likely spiritual authorities, similar to his words in Ephesians 6:12. The context of the passage is entirely spiritual, not political, so Paul’s meaning has nothing to do with shame towards earthly kings or leaders. Rather, he is speaking about the power of Jesus over the forces of spiritual darkness. Rulers and authorities are terms used for spiritual entities in Ephesians 3:10 and 1Peter 3:22.
How did Jesus disarm and openly shame spiritual authorities? According to Paul, “by triumphing over them in [Christ]”. Colossians 2:15 describes Christ’s superiority in defeating sin. This is shown in stark contrast to the failure of the unbelieving world. Paul encourages the Colossians not to be tricked by deceptive arguments. This passage also explains the drastic nature of salvation. Those who put their faith in Christ are “spiritually” circumcised and are identified with God through their faith in Christ. This act of forgiveness by God frees us from the eternally penalty of sin, restores our relationship, and defeats the evil forces fighting against us. Paul emphasizes the way Christ accomplished everything we need to be justified before God. As a result, there is no reason for believers to pursue these false, shallow “shadows”. We have the real substance who is Jesus Christ and we should follow him. Glory!!!
INSTRUCTION: Walk in the victory Christ has purchased for you.
CONFESSION: I declare that my victory is always, in Jesus name, Amen.
QUOTE: God cannot be defeated so you cannot be defeated.
DAILY BIBLE READING: MORNING: MATTHEW CHAPTER 28 EVENING: 2CHRONICLES CHAPTER 20
LIGHT FROM THE WORD 