Christ and the Powers: An Exposition of Colossians 1:16
Colossians 1:16 “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.” Colossians 1:16 stands as one of the most profound Christological declarations in the New Testament. The apostle Paul locates Christ not only at the center of salvation history but also at the center of creation and cosmic order. Here, “thrones, dominions, rulers, and authorities” represent realities beyond human comprehension—spiritual and systemic. For captivity theology, this text unveils a paradox: powers created through Christ for His glory are now alienated from God through the rebellion of humanity, working in opposition to God’s purposes until Christ brings them to final subjection. In this interpretation, we will consider both dimensions: The personal dimension —spiritual entities that enslave individuals through addictions, fears, and destructive behaviors. The systemic...