Paul shares more good news with the Colossians as well as us. If there ever was an encouraging bit of information for our age, this is it. While we might feel like worms and like gum on the bottom of a shoe, Paul shares the reality that all believers have Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior in them. Jesus is in us and Paul continues his explanation of the mystery. He also lets us know that we humans are more empowered than we realize, even though we live under the rule and authority of the devil and the satan. Paul makes it clear to us as to why there was a secret hidden from the sons of God before this world was created. He tells us that this is due to the all knowing and various wisdom of our Creator. We were created for a bigger purpose than we have been made aware of. We are filled up, perfectly.
This chapter break might not have been in a good place as Paul is not finished talking about the mystery of this administration. Paul is struggling with the fact that he has not personally met the Colossians, or the Laodiceans, who are only twelve miles south. Paul feels like a face to face meeting is the best way to love and comfort them. Again as Paul speaks, someone is scribing what he says, so we see his sentences as run-on sentences.
Colossians 2:1 G2309 For I want G1063 G1473 you G1492 to know G2245 how much G73 struggle G2192 I have G4012 for G1473 you, G2532 and G3588 the ones G1722 in G* Laodicea, G2532 and G3745 as many as G3756 have not G3708 seen G3588 G4383 my face G1473 G1722 in G4561 flesh;
2 G2443 that G3870 [2should be comforted G3588 G2588 1their hearts], G1473 G4822 being instructed G1722 in G26 love, …
3870 LSJ Gloss:παρακαλέω to call to
Dodson:παρακαλέω I summon, entreat, admonish, comfort
(a) I send for, summon, invite, (b) I beseech, entreat, beg, (c) I exhort, admonish, (d) I comfort, encourage, console.
Thayer:
1) to call to one's side, call for, summon
2) to address, speak to, (call to, call upon), which may be done in the way of exhortation, entreaty, comfort, instruction, etc.
2a) to admonish, exhort
2b) to beg, entreat, beseech
2b1) to strive to appease by entreaty
2c) to console, to encourage and strengthen by consolation, to comfort
2c1) to receive consolation, be comforted
2d) to encourage, strengthen
2e) exhorting and comforting and encouraging
2f) to instruct, teach
παρακαλέω
parakaleō par-ak-al-eh'-o From G3844 and G2564; to call near, that is, invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation) KJV Usage: beseech, call for, (be of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhort (-ation), intreat, pray.
4822 LSJ Gloss:συμβιβάζω to bring together
Dodson:συμβιβάζω I unite, prove, instruct (a) I unite or knit together, (b) I put together in reasoning, and so: I conclude, prove, (c) I teach, instruct.
Thayer:
1) to cause to coalesce, to join together, put together
1a) to unite or knit together: in affection
2) to put together in one's mind
2a) to compare
2b) to gather, conclude, consider
3) to cause a person to unite with one in a conclusion or come to the same opinion, to prove, demonstrate
3a) to teach, instruct, one
συμβιβάζω
sumbibazō soom-bib-ad'-zo From G4862 and βιβάζω bibazō (to force; causatively [by reduplication] of the base of G939); to drive together, that is, unite (in association or affection), (mentally) to infer, show, teach KJV Usage: compact, assuredly, gather, instruct, knit together, prove.
Paul says, “I beseech your hearts to join together in love.” He is speaking to the Colossians and to the Laodiceans. The Laodiceans are the people that Jesus spoke directly to via John in his letter to them. They were lukewarm, blind, and naked.
Colossians 2:2 ...G2532 and G1519 in G3956 all G4149 riches G3588 of the G4136 full assurance G3588 of the G4907 understanding,
4149 LSJ Gloss:πλοῦτος wealth, riches
Dodson:πλοῦτος riches, wealth
riches, wealth, abundance, materially or spiritually.
Thayer:
1) riches, wealth
1a) abundance of external possessions
1b) fulness, abundance, plenitude
1c) a good i.e. that with which one is enriched
πλοῦτος
ploutos ploo'-tos From the base of G4130; wealth (as fulness), that is, (literally) money, possessions, or (figuratively) abundance, richness, (specifically) valuable bestowment KJV Usage: riches.
4136 LSJ Gloss:πληροφορία fulness of assurance, certainty
Dodson:πληροφορία full assurance full assurance, conviction, confidence.
Thayer:
1) full assurance, most certain confidence
πληροφορία
plērophoria play-rof-or-ee'-ah From G4135; entire confidence KJV Usage: (full) assurance.
4907 LSJ Gloss:σύνεσις ibo)
Dodson:σύνεσις understanding
a putting together in the mind, hence: understanding, practical discernment, intellect.
Thayer:
1) a running together, a flowing together with
2) knowledge
2a) understanding
2b) the understanding, i.e the mind so far forth as it understands
For Synonyms see entry G5826
σύνεσις
sunesis soon'-es-is From G4920; a mental putting together, that is, intelligence or (concretely) the intellect KJV Usage: knowledge, understanding.
Paul declares “I summon your hearts to be joined together in love in the wealth of the conviction and confidence in the practical discernment and intellect.” Paul had already heard how the Colossians had great faith and love to all the saints. Now Paul wants them to take the next step, move from emotion to intellect, sunesis and epignōsis.
Colossians 2:2...G1519 in G1922 full knowledge G3588 of the G3466 mystery G3588 of the G2316 God G2532 and G3962 father G2532 and G3588 of the G5547 Christ;
1922 LSJ Gloss:ἐπίγνωσις full knowledge
Dodson:ἐπίγνωσις knowledge, discernment, recognition knowledge of a particular point (directed towards a particular object); perception, discernment, recognition, intuition.
Thayer:
1) precise and correct knowledge
1a) used in the NT of the knowledge of things ethical and divine
ἐπίγνωσις
epignōsis ip-ig'-no-sis From G1921; recognition, that is, (by implication) full discernment, acknowledgement KJV Usage: (ac-) knowledge (-ing, -ment).
3466 LSJ Gloss:μυστήριον a mystery
Dodson:μυστήριον anything hidden, a mystery a mystery, secret, of which initiation is necessary; in the NT: the counsels of God, once hidden but now revealed in the Gospel or some fact thereof; the Christian revelation generally; particular truths or details of the Christian revelation.
Thayer:
1) hidden thing, secret, mystery
1a) generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals
1b) a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding
1c) a hidden purpose or counsel
1c1) secret will
1c1a) of men
1c1b) of God: the secret counsels which govern God in dealing with the righteous, which are hidden from ungodly and wicked men but plain to the godly
2) in rabbinic writings, it denotes the mystic or hidden sense
2a) of an OT saying
2b) of an image or form seen in a vision
2c) of a dream
μυστήριον
mustērion moos-tay'-ree-on From a derivative of μύω muō (to shut the mouth); a secret or “mystery” (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites) KJV Usage: mystery.
Paul then says, “I exhort and admonish your hearts to be joined together in the abundance of the assurance of mental connections of knowledge and recognition of the mystery of the Father and the Christ.” It is Christ IN you the Hope of Glory. Christ is in you. Christ is not in angels. Christ is not in the cherubim. Christ is not in the seraphim. Christ is in humans who believe on Him. Move from this "good feeling" to the intellectual recognition of this mystery. Put it together in your understanding as an actual solidified action that took place when Jesus became your Lord and Savior, whether you “feel” it or not. Emotions are sometimes deceitful. We feel happy and then sad. Feelings come and go, and our thoughts can fuel incorrect feelings and making us believe our feelings are reality. Emotions are not a guarantee of reality. Instead, whether we feel it or not, Christ is in us, the Hope of Glory. In other words, Paul is saying “get it in your head”.
Colossians 2:3 G1722 in G3739 which G1510.2.6 are G3956 all G3588 the G2344 treasures G3588 of the G4678 wisdom G2532 and G3588 of the G1108 knowledge G614 concealed.
2344 LSJ Gloss:θησαυρός a store laid up, treasure
Dodson:θησαυρός a treasure, store a store-house for precious things; hence: a treasure, a store.
Thayer:
1) the place in which good and precious things are collected and laid up
1a) a casket, coffer, or other receptacle, in which valuables are kept
1b) a treasury
1c) storehouse, repository, magazine
2) the things laid up in a treasury, collected treasures
θησαυρός
thēsauros thay-sow-ros' From G5087; a deposit, that is, wealth (literally or figuratively) KJV Usage: treasure.
4678 LSJ Gloss:σοφία skill
Dodson:σοφία wisdom wisdom, insight, skill (human or divine), intelligence.
Thayer:
1) wisdom, broad and full of intelligence; used of the knowledge of very diverse matters
1a) the wisdom which belongs to men
1a1) spec. the varied knowledge of things human and divine, acquired by acuteness and experience, and summed up in maxims and prov
σοφία
sophia sof-ee'-ah From G4680; wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual) KJV Usage: wisdom.
1108 LSJ Gloss:γνῶσις a judicial inquiry
Dodson:γνῶσις knowledge, doctrine, wisdom.
Thayer:
1) knowledge signifies in general intelligence, understanding
1a) the general knowledge of Christian religion
1b) the deeper more perfect and enlarged knowledge of this religion, such as belongs to the more advanced
1c) esp. of things lawful and unlawful for Christians
1d) moral wisdom, such as is seen in right living
For Synonyms see entry G5826
γνῶσις
gnōsis gno'-sis From G1097; knowing (the act), that is, (by implication) knowledge KJV Usage: knowledge, science.
614 LSJ Gloss:ἀπόκρυφος hidden, concealed
Dodson:ἀπόκρυφος hidden away, secret hidden away, secret, stored up.
Thayer:
1) hidden, secret
2) stored up
ἀπόκρυφος
apokruphos ap-ok'-roo-fos From G613; secret; by implication treasured KJV Usage: hid, kept secret.
In the knowledge of the mystery are hidden all the storehouses for precious treasure, wisdom, and knowledge. What treasures are hidden in the mystery? The mystery was hidden before the ages and generations of the world. Let’s look at exactly what this mystery is. The first aspect of the mystery to understand is that Jesus didn’t come to save only Israel. Jesus came for all the nations. Jesus came to release by ransom, all people who believe on Him.
Ephesians 3:3-11 (KJV)
3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,
4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)
5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;
6 That the Gentiles should be fellow-heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:
7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.
8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;
9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,
11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:
The word translated “Gentiles” is the word ethnos, ethnic groups or nations. The nations who believe on Jesus as Lord and Messiah are heirs alongside any Jews who believe that Jesus is Lord and Messiah. All believers are of the same body, and all believers partake in the promise of the good news. All believers on Jesus as Lord and Messiah are part of the same communion or partnership. This remarkable benefit for believers was a secret hidden from the beginning of the world. Why? So that the principalities and powers, sons of God in the heavenly realms, would learn of the manifold or much variegated wisdom of God through the assembly. We, the ekklesia, are now proving to the rebellious sons of God, the fallen angels, demons, the devil, the satan, and all those who are now under the devil’s authority, the multifaceted wisdom of God. Now think about the position that puts us in. We hardly know who we are in Christ. But before this world began, there was already a plan in place. Why was there a plan before humans were created? Because the mutinous sons of God had rebelled prior to humanity. The plan was to show the fallen sons of God, that God is far smarter and wiser, by creating humans who would far surpass the races of the other sons of God, by believing on their Messiah, because they, humans, would have Christ, the anointed one, in them.
Colossians 1:25-27 (KJV)
25 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;
26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:
27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
The Church is the group created by the Creator that brings resolution to the disobedience of the fallen sons of God. The sons of God are judged as to humanity proving that Jesus, who was from before the foundations of the world, who created all things, also was supreme in wisdom, to create humans who would become the church. The church will judge angels. Now, after Jesus, the first born from the dead, ascended to the right hand of the Father, he sent the Holy Spirit to comfort, teach, and convict us. While this was unknown to the fallen heavenly beings, there was more; Christ, the anointed one, would be in the believers. The rebellious sons of God thought they could take over Jesus’ creation. Not only can they not take over Jesus’ creation, they will be judged by Jesus’ creation, humans. While it may have looked like a small number of people could stay holy throughout their lives, and that there would be hardly any representation of humans in the heavens, sin is no longer an issue, as Jesus’ blood cleanses us from our sins. Had they known.
1 Corinthians 2:6-8 (KJV)
6 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:
7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:
8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
If the princes of the world (the rulers and leaders put in place by the satan to oppress humans) had known that Christ would be in us, they wouldn’t have killed Jesus. Jesus came to earth in one body, now he is in all those who believe on Him. But there is more. Another “on earth” benefit is marriage.
Ephesians 5:31-32 (KJV)
31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.
Why is marriage a mystery? First of all, as we have noted previously, the other sons of God do not procreate or marry. None of the other sons of God are life givers as humans are. This would be why the devil and his rebellious ones attempt to kill all babies, and destroy families. Secondly, woman was given to man as a helper from God, meaning that when the adam needed help, he was to call on someone given to him as a helper, woman. Thirdly, when a man and women marry they become one. They are two parts that make one whole. The comparison to Christ and the church is our fourth point. When humans connect to Christ they are joined to Christ and made complete, just as a husband and a wife are complete. We are complete in Jesus as Colossians 2:10 tells us.
Jesus will gather together all believers in the administration of the fullness of times. This is Jesus’ good pleasure, he is not begrudgingly gathering all who are in Christ, he is happy to gather all in Christ.
Ephesians 1:8-10 (KJV)
8 Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence;
9 Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
10 That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
In the administration of the full measure or completion of due measure, he will recapitulate or gather up all, everyone, in Christ, all those in heaven, all those on the earth. It may have seemed to the fallen sons of God that they could take over creation, and then enslave humankind. Jesus however, planned for their evil mutiny before the world began.
1 Corinthians 15:51-52 (KJV)
51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
Jesus planned to take those humans who love him off the earth before the evil sons of God attempt an overthrow of this world. The church then comes back to clean up the earth, imprison evil spirit beings, and help establish the millennial kingdom. Why hasn’t Jesus taken us off the earth yet? We are waiting for a number to be fulfilled.
Romans 11:25 (KJV)
25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
Blindness to the Messiah is due in part until the fulness of the Gentiles come into the sheepfold. We are waiting for a certain number of people who believe. Wouldn’t that be another reason why the devil, via demons, and evil sons of God, attempt to kill unborn and newborn babies? This is why capital punishment is not a priority for the devil. When faced with execution most will confess Jesus as their Lord, therefore (as the devil might say) don’t kill evil people, let them live an evil life. Isn’t this obvious as there are people who insist on killing babies but also insist on doing away with capital punishment?
Paul says this mystery was revealed and manifested to make this known to the nations.
Romans 16:25-27 (KJV)
25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,
26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:
27 To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.
By command, the everlasting God sends this message out to the nations for their own compliance and submission. Therefore Paul asks for prayer.
Ephesians 6:19 (KJV)
19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,
It is the charge of all believers to make known the mystery. Unfortunately the mystery is still a mystery to the church. This mystery was revealed to Paul, who then recognized the messages from the prophets. If we realize that this is the treasure we have, we must also recognize that we have the Creator in us. Everything was made by Jesus and we are no exception. Jesus knew that another creation, one which would be unique, would be revealed to the evil sons of God, which would show them His multifaceted wisdom. What they thought was another created race of beings turns out to be a race which is a life-giving race that creates life and has the potential for receiving the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and the Messiah himself within each individual human being.
The satan refused to bow in reverence to the adam. By all outward appearances the adam may have looked like an inferior being. But remember, the Lord would come to visit with the adam in the early evenings. Before the adam was created, before the world had been formed, after it became formless, void, and dark, our Messiah had a plan. Through humanity, the evil sons of God would be judged. Through humanity, the evil sons of God would be exposed for their own evil and pride. Through humanity, the sons of God who rejected the Creator would realize their own future doom. Through humanity the rebellious sons of God would see the church with Christ in them, not just one nation, but people from every nation, tribe, and tongue. As previously stated, it is Christ in us, not Christ in angels, demons, the devil, the satan, etc. In the knowledge of the mystery are all the storehouses for precious treasure, wisdom, and knowledge, hidden. To look at the mystery without the comparisons of the other sons of God leaves us short on wisdom and knowledge. By understanding that humanity was a specially created race, to prove the manifold wisdom of God, we recognize that we are more important than we realize. We have authority as superhuman potentates. Yet Paul warns that no one should mislead the Colossians with plausible arguments.
Colossians 2:4 G3778 And this G1161 G3004 I say, G2443 that G3361 not G5100 anyone G1473 should mislead you G3884 G1722 in G4086 plausible arguments.
3884 LSJ Gloss:παραλογίζομαι to misreckon, miscalculate
Dodson:παραλογίζομαι I deceive, beguile I deceive, beguile, reason falsely, mislead.
Thayer:
1) to reckon wrong, miscount
2) to cheat by false reckoning
2a) to deceive by false reasoning
3) to deceive, delude, circumvent
παραλογίζομαι
paralogizomai par-al-og-id'-zom-ahee From G3844 and G3049; to misreckon, that is, delude KJV Usage: beguile, deceive.
4086 LSJ Gloss:πιθανολογία the use of probable arguments
Dodson:πιθανολογία persuasive speech.
Thayer:
1) speech adapted to persuade, discourse in which probable arguments are adduced
2) in a bad sense, persuasiveness of speech, specious discourse leading others into error
πιθανολογία
pithanologia pith-an-ol-og-ee'-ah From a compound of a derivative of G3982 and G3056; persuasive language KJV Usage: enticing words.
Don’t let anyone deceive you with false reasoning and persuasive speech or probable arguments. Eve was misguided with enticing words, and it is easy for us to point fingers at others, but really we are all susceptible to smooth talking people who try to overthrow our faith.
Colossians 2:5 G1487 For if G1063 G2532 even G3588 in the G4561 flesh G548 I am absent, G235 yet G3588 in the G4151 spirit G4862 [2with G1473 3you G1510.2.1 1I am], G5463 rejoicing G2532 and G991 seeing G1473 your G3588 G5010 order, G2532 and G3588 the G4733 firmness, G3588 the one G1519 [2in G5547 3Christ G4102 1of your belief]. G1473
5010 LSJ Gloss:τάξις an arranging
Dodson:τάξις order, position, rank order, (a) regular arrangement, (b) appointed succession, (c) position, rank.
Thayer:
1) an arranging, arrangement
2) order
2a) a fixed succession observing a fixed time
3) due or right order, orderly condition
4) the post, rank, or position which one holds in civic or other affairs
4a) since this position generally depends on one's talents, experience, resources
4a1) character, fashion, quality, style
τάξις
taxis tax'-is From G5021; regular arrangement, that is, (in time) fixed succession (of rank or character), official dignity KJV Usage: order.
4733 LSJ Gloss:στερέωμα a solid body, foundation
Dodson:στερέωμα firmness, steadfastness firmness, steadfastness, constancy.
Thayer:
1) that which has been made firm
1a) the firmament, the arch of the sky, which in early times was thought to be solid
1a1) a fortified place
1b) that which furnishes a foundation
1b1) on which a thing rests firmly, support
1c) firmness, steadfastness
1c1) metaph. in a military sense: solid front
στερέωμα
stereōma ster-eh'-o-mah From G4732; something established, that is, (abstractly) confirmation (stability) KJV Usage: stedfastness.
What connects all believers? The Holy Spirit. Paul is pointing out that in his spirit he rejoices over their position and their established firm foundation. Their faith and love was their established firm foundation which puts them in an orderly position of rank. Paul reminds them to receive Christ and walk in Him.
Colossians 2: 6 G5613 As G3767 then G3880 you took to yourself G3588 the G5547 Christ -- G* Jesus G3588 the G2962 Lord; G1722 [2in G1473 3him G4043 1walk]!
3880
παραλαμβάνω
paralambanō par-al-am-ban'-o From G3844 and G2983; to receive near, that is, associate with oneself (in any familiar or intimate act or relation); by analogy to assume an office; figuratively to learn KJV Usage: receive, take (unto, with).
4043 LSJ Gloss:περιπατέω to walk up and down, to walk about
Dodson:περιπατέω I walk, conduct my life I walk, hence Hebraistically (in an ethical sense): I conduct my life, live.
Thayer:
1) to walk
1a) to make one's way, progress; to make due use of opportunities
1b) Hebrew for, to live
1b1) to regulate one's life
1b2) to conduct one's self
1b3) to pass one's life
περιπατέω
peripateō per-ee-pat-eh'-o From G4012 and G3961; to tread all around, that is, walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary) KJV Usage: go, be occupied with, walk (about).
Paul suggests that they receive Christ Jesus the Lord near, and live in Him. It is one thing to live in Christ for a day, but Paul wants them to be rooted in Christ. This means that they are to deepen their own personal walk with the Lord. They have to move from feelings to knowledge.
4492 LSJ Gloss:ῥιζόω to make to strike root
Dodson:ῤιζόω I root, fix by the root I cause to take root; met: I plant, fix firmly, establish.
Thayer:
1) to cause to strike root, to strengthen with roots, to render firm, to fix, establish, cause a person or a thing to be thoroughly grounded
ῥιζόω
rhizoō hrid-zo'-o From G4491; to root (figuratively become stable) KJV Usage: root.
2026 LSJ Gloss:ἐποικοδομέω to build up
Dodson:ἐποικοδομέω I build upon a foundation I build upon (above) a foundation.
Thayer:
1) to build upon, build up To finish the structure of which the foundation has already been laid, to give constant increase in Christian knowledge and in a life conformed thereto.
ἐποικοδομέω
epoikodomeō ep-oy-kod-om-eh'-o From G1909 and G3618; to build upon, that is, (figuratively) to rear up KJV Usage: build thereon (thereupon, on, upon).
When we look at a tree we only see the parts above ground. What holds the tree in place, what nourishes the tree, what promotes the trees’ growth, are the roots. Our roots in Christ Jesus our Lord can grow deeper than what people see on our outward appearance. Rooted and built up in Him. the foundation of our being is in Him. We are to be built on the knowledge that Jesus died and rose up on the third day. This is the foundation. We grow from this point forward.
Colossians 2:7...G2532 and G950 being firmed up G1722 in G3588 the G4102 belief, G2531 as G1321 you were taught, G4052 abounding G1722 in G1473 it G1722 with G2169 thankfulness.
950 LSJ Gloss:βεβαιόω to make firm, confirm, establish, secure, warrant, make good
Dodson:βεβαιόω I confirm, ratify I confirm, ratify, secure, establish; pass: I guarantee.
Thayer:
1) to make firm, establish, confirm, make sure
βεβαιόω
bebaioō beb-ah-yo'-o From G949; to stabilitate (figuratively) KJV Usage: confirm, (e-) stablish.
4052 LSJ Gloss:περισσεύω to be over and above
Dodson:περισσεύω I exceed, am left over (a) intrans: I exceed the ordinary (the necessary), abound, overflow; am left over, (b) trans: I cause to abound.
Thayer:
1) to exceed a fixed number of measure, to be left over and above a certain number or measure
1a) to be over, to remain
1b) to exist or be at hand in abundance
1b1) to be great (abundant)
1b2) a thing which comes in abundance, or overflows unto one, something falls to the lot of one in large measure
1b3) to redound unto, turn out abundantly for, a thing
1c) to abound, overflow
1c1) to be abundantly furnished with, to have in abundance, abound in (a thing), to be in affluence
1c2) to be pre-eminent, to excel
1c3) to excel more than, exceed
2) to make to abound
2a) to furnish one richly so that he has abundance
2b) to make abundant or excellent"Abounding" is used of a flower going from a bud to full bloom.
περισσεύω
perisseuō per-is-syoo'-o From G4053; to superabound (in quantity or quality), be in excess, be superfluous; also (transitively) to cause to superabound or excel KJV Usage: (make, more) abound, (have, have more) abundance, (be more) abundant, be the better, enough and to spare, exceed, excel, increase, be left, redound, remain (over and above).
2169 LSJ Gloss:εὐχαριστία thankfulness, gratitude
Dodson:εὐχαριστία thankfulness, gratitude thankfulness, gratitude; giving of thanks, thanksgiving.
Thayer:
1) thankfulness
2) the giving of thanks
εὐχαριστία
eucharistia yoo-khar-is-tee'-ah From G2170; gratitude; actually grateful language (to God, as an act of worship) KJV Usage: thankfulness, (giving of) thanks (-giving).
Paul not only wants our roots and foundation in Christ secure, he wants us to be established and secure in the faith and then exceed over and above ordinary. Our roots are not based on our emotions, our roots are based on knowledge and wisdom. Feelings do not ground us. Most people who are securely grounded in the faith will naturally super-abound in thankfulness. Thankfulness is like the leaves on a tree; we see the leaves, but may not realize that the roots are what made those leaves possible. We enter His gates with thanksgiving.
Paul has already warned about fancy persuasive arguments, but he is going to warn them again. Why? Think about the time period. As Jews moved out of Jerusalem, they found either former Jews or new Christians in Colosse as well as many other places. They brought their works of circumcision and works of ritual service and pushed them onto new believers in Christ. Paul deals with this his entire ministry.
Colossians 2:8 G991 Take heed G3361 lest G5100 [2anyone G1473 4you G1510.8.3 1there shall be G3588 G4812 3robbing] G1223 through G3588 the G5385 fondness of intellectual pursuits G2532 and G2756 empty G539 deception,
4812 LSJ Gloss:συλαγωγέω to carry off as booty, lead captive
Dodson:συλαγωγέω I plunder I plunder, lead captive; met: I make victim by fraud.
Thayer:
1) to carry off booty
1a) to carry one off as a captive (and slave)
1b) to lead away from the truth and subject to one's sway
συλαγωγέω
sulagōgeō soo-lag-ogue-eh'-o From the base of G4813 and (the reduplicated form of) G71; to lead away as booty, that is, (figuratively) seduce KJV Usage: spoil.
5385 LSJ Gloss:φιλοσοφία love of knowledge and wisdom, pursuit thereof, speculation, study
Dodson:φιλοσοφία love of wisdom, philosophy love of wisdom, philosophy, in the NT of traditional Jewish theology.
Thayer:
1) love of wisdom
1a) used either of zeal for or skill in any art or science, any branch of knowledge. Used once in the NT of the theology, or rather theosophy, of certain Jewish Christian ascetics, which busied itself with refined and speculative enquiries into the nature and classes of angels, into the ritual of the Mosaic law and the regulations of Jewish tradition respecting practical life
φιλοσοφία
philosophia fil-os-of-ee'-ah From G5386; “philosophy” , that is, (specifically) Jewish sophistry KJV Usage: philosophy.
2756 LSJ Gloss:κενός empty
Dodson:κενός empty, vain, hollow (a) empty, (b) met: empty (in moral content), vain, ineffective, foolish, worthless, (c) false, unreal, pretentious, hollow.
Thayer:
1) empty, vain, devoid of truth
1a) of places, vessels, etc. which contain nothing
1b) of men
1b1) empty handed
1b2) without a gift
1c) metaph. destitute of spiritual wealth, of one who boasts of his faith as a transcendent possession, yet is without the fruits of faith
1d) metaph. of endeavours, labours, acts, which result in nothing, vain, fruitless, without effect
1d1) vain of no purpose
κενός
kenos ken-os' Apparently a primary word; empty (literally or figuratively) KJV Usage: empty, (in) vain.
539 LSJ Gloss:ἀπάτη a trick, fraud, deceit
Dodson:ἀπάτη deceit, deception deceit, deception, deceitfulness, delusion.
Thayer:
1) deceit, deceitfulness
ἀπάτη
apatē ap-at'-ay From G538; delusion KJV Usage: deceit (-ful, -fulness), deceivableness (-ving).
It is always human nature that is inspired by seducing spirits and doctrines of demons, that attempts to lead captive and make victims of others. This behavior has a root in witchcraft and is known as domination. This behavior goes back to the garden, domination of the adam, domination of humanity, domination of the world. But remember Jesus had a plan from before the beginning of the world. Jesus had a plan for captivating the captors; leading captivity captive.
Intellectual pursuits is philosophy. Philosophy is the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence. But Jewish sophistry is false arguments designed to deceive. Philosophy and sophistry can rob us, making us captives of the philosophy and sophistry of others. These intellectual arguments are vain, hollow, and devoid of truth, they are fraudulent, deceptive, and delusional. People fuel them with emotion to make their arguments seem more true.
When a Christian leader walks away from the church or Christ, that one uses delusional, hollow, philosophy and sophistry to justify their position. They had no roots in the faith. They never built up their own foundation. They rode a wave, but were not firmly established, and eventually they shrivel up. They then believe that this is normal and they use intellectual arguments to not only make themselves feel better, but to also lead others away too. Philosophy and sophistry can become emotion-based ways to reason and think. People who use philosophy to justify their actions prey on the emotions of others in their arguments. If it is not the intent to lead others astray, these individuals would quietly walk away. Instead, a worldwide announcement that they are “leaving the faith” is used to gather others to do the same. But Paul gives a strong warning for those leading other away from Christ, so this behavior is not without consequence.
While those who are established, rooted, and built up in the faith, see people turning away from Christ, the realization that we have raised generations of people without deep roots brings grief. We may have substituted fertilizing those roots with the wisdom and knowledge of the Lord Jesus, with our own philosophical and psychological version of the faith. Maybe our worship has become “feeling” based rather than knowledge based. Roots are developed by pursuing the mysteries of the Creation, but not from an external search looking in, but from fellowship with the Creator himself, who is within us. This is the mystery, Christ in us, the hope of glory. We are the race that brings down the evil spiritual beings, but we need deep roots. Our guide is our knowledge and wisdom, not our emotions. Paul goes on.
Colossians 2:8…G2596 according to G3588 the G3862 tradition G3588 G444 of men, G2596 according to G3588 the G4747 elements G3588 of the G2889 world, G2532 and G3756 not G2596 according to G5547 Christ!
3862 LSJ Gloss:παράδοσις a handing down, transmission
Dodson:παράδοσις an instruction, tradition.
Thayer:
1) giving up, giving over
1a) the act of giving up
1b) the surrender of cities
2) a giving over which is done by word of mouth or in writing, i.e. tradition by instruction, narrative, precept, etc.
2a) objectively, that which is delivered, the substance of a teaching
2b) of the body of precepts, esp. ritual, which in the opinion of the later Jews were orally delivered by Moses and orally transmitted in unbroken succession to subsequent generations, which precepts, both illustrating and expanding the written law, as they did were to be obeyed with equal reverence
παράδοσις
paradosis par-ad'-os-is From G3860; transmission, that is, (concretely) a precept; specifically the Jewish traditionary law KJV Usage: ordinance, tradition.
4747 LSJ Gloss:στοιχεῖον one of a row
Dodson:στοιχεῖον a heavenly body, an element (a) plur: the heavenly bodies, (b) a rudiment, an element, a rudimentary principle, an elementary rule.
Thayer:
1) any first thing, from which the others belonging to some series or composite whole take their rise, an element, first principal
1a) the letters of the alphabet as the elements of speech, not however the written characters, but the spoken sounds
1b) the elements from which all things have come, the material causes of the universe
1c) the heavenly bodies, either as parts of the heavens or (as others think) because in them the elements of man, life and destiny were supposed to reside
1d) the elements, rudiments, primary and fundamental principles of any art, science, or discipline
1d1) i.e. of mathematics, Euclid's geometry
στοιχεῖον
stoicheion stoy-khi'-on Neuter of a presumed derivative of the base of G4748; something orderly in arrangement, that is, (by implication) a serial (basal, fundamental, initial) constituent (literally), proposition (figuratively) KJV Usage: element, principle, rudiment.
2889 LSJ Gloss:κόσμος order
Dodson:κόσμος the world, universe the world, universe; worldly affairs; the inhabitants of the world; adornment.
Thayer:
1) an apt and harmonious arrangement or constitution, order, government
2) ornament, decoration, adornment, i.e. the arrangement of the stars, 'the heavenly hosts', as the ornament of the heavens.
1 Pet. 3:3 3) the world, the universe
4) the circle of the earth, the earth
5) the inhabitants of the earth, men, the human family
6) the ungodly multitude; the whole mass of men alienated from God, and therefore hostile to the cause of Christ
7) world affairs, the aggregate of things earthly
7a) the whole circle of earthly goods, endowments riches, advantages, pleasures, etc, which although hollow and frail and fleeting, stir desire, seduce from God and are obstacles to the cause of Christ
8) any aggregate or general collection of particulars of any sort
8a) the Gentiles as contrasted to the Jews (Rom.
11:12 etc)
8b) of believers only, John 1:29; 3:16; 3:17; 6:33; 12:47 1 Cor. 4:9; 2 Cor. 5:19
κόσμος
kosmos kos'-mos Probably from the base of G2865; orderly arrangement, that is, decoration; by implication the world (in a wide or narrow sense, including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively [morally]) KJV Usage: adorning, world.
Paul’s warning is to not follow the traditions of men. Some personality types find security in tradition. Some do not. (Security is a “feeling”). Traditions can enslave, even if those traditions are established on the Bible. Jesus explained that there would be some people who would be sown on good ground, but that they would produce less than others. He gave us three tiers for an example. Traditions can hold some people back.
We have studied stoicheion previously, and recognize that the elements encompass everything from planets, to pebbles, from air to grass. Stoichiometry is the calculation of reactants and products of chemical reaction, or basically the reactions that basic elements produce. We have authority over the elements. Paul is speaking of the elements of the cosmos. Do not follow after teachings regarding the elements of the cosmos, but instead follow after teachings of Christ who created the elements in the cosmos. Why?
As we know, the adam could see all the activities of all the heavenly beings before the fall. After the fall, humans could not see the other heavenly beings. What we see is not necessarily all there is in the heavens. The other sons of God have jobs and responsibilities to keep things in order. However the evil fallen sons of God can mislead humanity with persuasive arguments and vain philosophies and sophistry. Why follow after the elements when we have been created above the elements? In Christ dwells everything. Everything was created by him and for him and to him.
Colossians 2:9 G3754 For G1722 in G1473 him G2730 dwells G3956 all G3588 the G4138 fullness G3588 of the G2320 deity G4985 bodily.
2730 LSJ Gloss:κατοικέω to dwell in as a
Dodson:κατοικέω I dwell in, settle in, inhabit I dwell in, settle in, am established in (permanently), inhabit.
Thayer:
1) to dwell, settle
1a) metaph. divine powers, influences, etc., are said to dwell in his soul, to pervade, prompt, govern it
2) to dwell in, inhabit
2a) God is said to dwell in the temple, i.e. to be always present for worshippers
For Synonyms see entry G5854
κατοικέω
katoikeō kat-oy-keh'-o From G2596 and G3611; to house permanently, that is, reside (literally or figuratively) KJV Usage: dwell (-er), inhabitant (-ter).
4138 LSJ Gloss:πλήρωμα a full measure
Dodson:πλήρωμα fullness, fulfillment, completion (a) a fill, fullness; full complement; supply, patch, supplement, (b) fullness, filling, fulfillment, completion.
Thayer:
1) that which is (has been) filled
1a) a ship inasmuch as it is filled (i.e. manned) with sailors, rowers, and soldiers
1b) in the NT, the body of believers, as that which is filled with the presence, power, agency, riches of God and of Christ
2) that which fills or with which a thing is filled
2a) of those things which a ship is filled, freight and merchandise, sailors, oarsmen, soldiers
2b) completeness or fulness of time
3) fulness, abundance
4) a fulfilling, keeping
πλήρωμα
plērōma play'-ro-mah From G4137; repletion or completion, that is, (subjectively) what fills (as contents, supplement, copiousness, multitude), or (objectively) what is filled (as container, performance, period) KJV Usage: which is put in to fill up, piece that filled up, fulfilling, full, fulness.
2320 LSJ Gloss:θεότης divinity, divine nature
Dodson:θεότης deity, Godhead.
Thayer:
1) deity
1a) the state of being God, Godhead
For Synonyms see entry G5849
θεότης
theotēs theh-ot'-ace From G2316; divinity (abstractly) KJV Usage: godhead.
4985 Dodson:σωματικῶσ bodily bodily, corporeally, belonging to the body.
Thayer:
1) bodily, corporally
1a) of the exalted spiritual body, visible only to the inhabitants of heaven
σωματικῶς
sōmatikōs so-mat-ee-koce' Adverb from G4984; corporeally or physically KJV Usage: bodily.
Christ inhabits the full measure of the divine nature corporeally or physically. Corporeal means “physical”, incorporeal means “disembodied or ethereal”. The satan was created as an incorporeal being, we are corporeal beings. The satan does not have a physical body, but humans have a physical body. The completely full deity, the state of being God, dwells in Jesus corporeally. Christ who is in us, with the fully complete divine nature inhabits us with his exalted spiritual body, making us in our physical body complete in Him.
Colossians 2:10 G2532 And G1510.2.5 you are G1722 [2in G1473 3him G4137 1being fulfilled], G3739 who G1510.2.3 is G3588 the G2776 head G3956 of all G746 sovereignty G2532 and G1849 authority;
4137 LSJ Gloss:πληρόω to make full
Dodson:πληρόω I fill, fulfill, complete.
Thayer:
1) to make full, to fill up, i.e. to fill to the full
1a) to cause to abound, to furnish or supply liberally
1a1) I abound, I am liberally supplied
2) to render full, i.e. to complete
2a) to fill to the top: so that nothing shall be wanting to full measure, fill to the brim
2b) to consummate: a number
2b1) to make complete in every particular, to render perfect
2b2) to carry through to the end, to accomplish, carry out, (some undertaking)
2c) to carry into effect, bring to realisation, realise
2c1) of matters of duty: to perform, execute
2c2) of sayings, promises, prophecies, to bring to pass, ratify, accomplish
2c3) to fulfil, i.e. to cause God's will (as made known in the law) to be obeyed as it should be, and God's promises (given through the prophets) to receive fulfilment
πληρόω
plēroō play-ro'-o From G4134; to make replete, that is, (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute (an office), finish (a period or task), verify (or coincide with a prediction), etc. KJV Usage: accomplish, X after, (be) complete, end, expire, fill (up), fulfil, (be, make) full (come), fully preach, perfect, supply.
2776 LSJ Gloss:κεφαλή the head
Dodson:κεφαλή the head
(a) the head, (b) met: a corner stone, uniting two walls; head, ruler, lord.
Thayer:
1) the head, both of men and often of animals. Since the loss of the head destroys life, this word is used in the phrases relating to capital and extreme punishment.
2) metaph. anything supreme, chief, prominent
2a) of persons, master lord: of a husband in relation to his wife
2b) of Christ: the Lord of the husband and of the Church
2c) of things: the corner stone
κεφαλή
kephalē kef-al-ay' Probably from the primary word κάπτω kaptō (in the sense of seizing); the head (as the part most readily taken hold of), literally or figuratively KJV Usage: head.
746
ἀρχή
archē ar-khay' From G756; (properly abstract) a commencement, or (concrete) chief (in various applications of order, time, place or rank) KJV Usage: beginning, corner, (at the, the) first (estate), magistrate, power, principality, principle, rule.
1849
ἐξουσία
exousia ex-oo-see'-ah From G1832 (in the sense of ability); privilege, that is, (subjectively) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (objectively) mastery (concretely magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token of control), delegated influence KJV Usage: authority, jurisdiction, liberty, power, right, strength.
You are complete. Completely complete. You have been made replete, well supplied. You are filled up in Christ who is the Lord and Master, the Creator of all. Christ the anointed Messiah is complete in you. Christ is the head of all things, every thing, the whole thing. Christ is the Lord and Master of all archē, magistrates and powers. Christ is the Lord and Master of all exousia, authorities and potentates. Who are the archē’s and exousia’s? The sons of God, the heavenly spiritual beings, whether fallen or in allegiance with Christ. Christ is the head of them all.
Had the Laodiceans taken this message to the next level, from “good feelings” to deep knowledge and understanding, their roots would have been firm and steadfast. There would have been no need for Jesus to scold them. The command was to tell everyone in every nation. They instead were fat and happy.
The reality of this mystery is for us to become rooted deeply in it. This secret may not seem like a big deal to some in the church as we are still living under the authority of the devil, the god of this world, but we were specifically and miraculously created to bring the downfall and extermination of the evil sons of God. Christ is in us physically. Through us comes the demise of the rebellious principalities, powers, and rulers. When a negative situation is created for us, it is also created for Christ. They are abusing their creator through us. Imagine wearing a shirt with Jesus’ face on it, and every time someone sees you they are reminded of their own future. Spiritually, Christ is inside of us, we remind every fallen being of their own future, because of their own choices. They are judged by the way they treat us, and since it is Christ in us, they are judged by the way they treat their own creator. If we wanted to behave in a snarky manner, we could point to ourself and declare to the fallen sons of God “see Christ Jesus?” or “who are you persecuting, the Christ?”. We are not worms, we are superhuman, because Christ is in us the Hope of Glory, and we are completely complete in Him.
