Colossians 2:15

Alive with Christ · Colossians 2:6–23
Read Colossians 2

Translations

Modern
And having disarmed the powers and authorities, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.
Traditional
And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.
Literal
Having divested the rulers and the authorities, He made a show of them in public, having triumphed over them in it.
Latin
…et expolians principatus, et potestates traduxit confidenter, palam triumphans illos in semetipso.

Original

Greek
English
And having disarmed the powers and authorities, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

Notes

He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them (literally he led [them] in a victory parade): The Roman army celebrated a big victory with a parade. The winning Roman general would lead the embarrassed captives into the conquered city. This image clearly pictures the great victory of God. Through the cross of Christ, God has defeated all hostile spiritual forces (see also Ephesians 4:7–11).

Paul urges the Colossians to stay strong in their faith in Christ, despite the tempting arguments of the false teachers. For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity dwells in bodily form. Christ alone makes them complete.

Parallels

Ephesians 2:1–10

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Elemental Spirits, Elements Evil Letter to the Colossians Uncircumcision

Topics

Jesus, the Christ: Design of his Death Jesus, the Christ: Exaltation of Law: Temporary Power of Christ: Overcoming Satan Salvation is Deliverance From: The Devil Satan: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To The Atonement: Has Delivered Saints from The: Power of the Devil The Devil: Triumph Over, by Christ: Completed by his Death The Power of Christ: Exhibited in Overcoming Satan The Roman Empire: Allusions to Military Affairs of Triumphs of Victorious Generals Types of Christ: Samson Types of the Saviour: The Institutions Ordained by Moses