And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.
What does Colossians 1:17 mean?
Christ in his human nature, is the visible discovery of the invisible God, and he that hath seen Him hath seen the Father. Let us adore these mysteries in humble faith, and behold the glory of the Lord in Christ Jesus.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside Colossians 1:13-17 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Colossians 1:17
Those who regard this as referring to a moral creation, interpret it as meaning that he has the pre-eminence over all things; not as referring to his pre-existence. But the fair and proper meaning of the word "before" (προ pro) is, that he was before all things in the order of existence; compare Matthew 8:29 ; John 11:55 ; John 13:1 ; Acts 5:36 ; Acts 21:38 ; 2 Corinthians 12:2 . It is equivalent to saying that he was eternal - for he that had an existence before any thing was created, must be eternal. Thus, it is equivalent to the phrase, "In the beginning;" Genesis 1:1 ; compare the notes at John 1:1 .
Context in Colossians 1
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Colossians 1 belongs to the opening movement of the book, especially the section often described as thanksgiving and Christ hymn. Colossians magnifies Christ as image, creator, reconciler, head of the church, and the one in whom believers are complete. Read this chapter with the wider themes of supremacy of Christ, fullness, and reconciliation in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
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Passages on trusting God, receiving Christ, persevering without sight, and the relation between faith and lived obedience.
Verses on the fear of the Lord, wise speech, practical judgment, teachability, and the difference between biblical wisdom and mere cleverness.
Passages on lowliness, modesty, the contrast between pride and humility, and the way God exalts those who humble themselves.