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Read Introduction to Colossians

 

“For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.”

 

The third distinctive of the glory of Christ is that he created all things; all creation is designed for him, in him, and he preserves creation. Christ not only created all things, but all things continue to subsist because of him.

“For by Him all things were created”

John 1:3 says that Christ created the universe. Hebrews 1:2 says the Son made the universe. The Father is the originating cause (source), and the Son is how the world came into being (Rev. 3:14). The extent of the Son’s creation is “all” things. The word “all” includes the entire universe, whether material or immaterial, heaven or earth.

“that are in heaven and that are on earth visible [material] and invisible [immaterial]”

This phrase refers to the material universe, visible and invisible, space, and the physical universe. He made everything that we can see and cannot see.

“whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers”

The words “thrones,” “dominions, “principalities,” and “powers” probably refer to angelic beings and human government. In part, these terms specify the hierarchy of angels. The Colossians worshipped angels (Col 2:18). Christ reigns sovereign over angels (cf. Eph. 1:21; 3:10; 6:12; Phil. 2:9-10; Col. 2:10, 15). All angelic organizations, whether good or evil, are under the control and power of Jesus Christ. The angels are a highly organized hierarchy over which Christ sovereignly reigns. He also reigns over the governments of the world. Thus, Christ holds sovereignty over both the spirit world and human government. 

“All things were created through Him and for Him”

The first phrase says that all things were created “by” him. That is, Jesus is the cause of creation, and he designed creation. However, in this phrase, all things were created “through” him. He is the instrument of creation. Jesus Christ is the Agent whereby the universe was created. He is the creator.

Finally, creation is designed “for him.” The word “for” is a term of purpose. Creation is designed for the glory of Christ. He is the goal of creation. Christ will be glorified in creation. In summary, Christ is the author, the means and the end of creation. The universe finds its goal and perfection in Christ.

Principle:

The universe holds no ultimate horror for the Christian.

Application:

The hands of the sovereign Son of God spun into existence everything that exists. He made the constellations of stars. Why should we worry about having a job next week? He can deal with our problems. Why should the Christian fear an uncertain, uncontrolled, runaway world? Jesus Christ is sovereign over it all. He will be glorified in the end.

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