Colossians 1: 16 – In Him is all created

… firstborn of every creature, for in Him is all created, that is in the heavens and that on the earth, the visible and invisible, whether thrones, or lordships, or sovereignties, or authorities, all is created through Him and for Him…

The reasoning “for” that begins verse 16 explains why God’s image is “the firstborn of every creature.” Paul declares: for in Him is all created. The vision in these verses is limitless. It includes “every creature” and “the all” (Gr. ta panta). These terms allow no exceptions. It is further specified as “in the heavens and on the earth, the visible and invisible things” to emphasize its inclusive scope.

In the specific list that Paul gives, the universal comes first. He then emphasizes hierarchy because the Son has been given the supreme position.  Hence he mentions: thrones, lordships, sovereignties, authorities. All these types and levels of power are on earth as well as in the heavens (Ephesians 6:12). In the visible, but also in the world that hides from our view. Everything and everyone in all creation is within the domain of “the Son of God’s love.” In Him it was all created!

Delen: