Colossians 2: 9 – the entire complement of the Deity

… in accord with the elements of the world, and not in accord with Christ. For in Him the entire complement of the Deity is dwelling bodily.

Philosophy and tradition posed a real threat to the Colossians. They were promoted through subtle tactics. The Colossians did not have to give up their faith in Christ, but philosophy and tradition would further enrich their faith. It would complete their faith. The ‘influencers’ didn’t take anything from the Colossians, but they gave them something. Treasures of wisdom and knowledge (cf. 2:3) that they had found in philosophy and tradition. What could be wrong with that?!

But Paul radically puts an end to these fallacies. Because its premise is wrong. They assume that Christ is incomplete. How could wisdom and knowledge from other sources contribute, when everything is found in Him?! These preachers may have spoken appreciatively of Jesus’ ministry on earth at that time. But they had no idea who the resurrected Christ is today. This Christ as a man, bodily, is today seated at God’s right hand (Col.3:1). Indeed, there is only one God but also only one Mediator between God and men, one man Christ Jesus (1Tim.2:5). All the fullness of the Godhead dwells in Him bodily!

Delen: