What does Colossians 2:17 mean?

Explanation

Colossians 2:17 reads, "Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ." In this verse, the Apostle Paul is likely referring to various religious regulations such as dietary laws, festivals, and Sabbaths that were practiced under the Old Covenant as outlined in the Torah (the first five books of the Hebrew Scriptures).

Paul describes these practices as a "shadow," indicating that they are not the substance but rather an outline or a foretelling of something more substantial that is to come.

In contrast, "the body is of Christ" suggests that the substance, or the fulfillment of what was foreshadowed, is found in Jesus Christ and his teachings, his work on the cross, and the establishment of the New Covenant.

Historical Context

The Epistle to the Colossians was written by the Apostle Paul, around 60-62 A.D., while he was in prison, most likely in Rome.

This letter addresses the Christians in Colossae, a small Phrygian city in Asia Minor.

During this time, the Colossian church was facing heretical teachings that mixed elements of Judaism and local philosophies.

These teachings insisted on adherence to Old Testament ceremonial laws, the worship of angels, and other practices that Paul considered to be distractions from the Christian gospel.

The historical context of this verse is crucial as it was a response to these early heresies that threatened to undermine the sufficiency of Christ's work.

Theological Insights

From an evangelical Christian perspective, this verse emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ's atonement as the fulfillment of Old Testament types and ceremonies.

For Catholic and Orthodox traditions, it can also highlight the continuity and fulfillment of Old Testament worship in the sacraments and liturgies centered on Christ.

For those from a messianic perspective, this passage could signify the ongoing importance of understanding the Old Testament practices as foundational to fully appreciating the work of Christ.

Practical Applications

Colossians 2:17 encourages Christians to focus on Christ as the center of their faith rather than becoming overly preoccupied with religious regulations or traditions.

In practical terms, this suggests that one's relationship with Jesus and the grace offered through him should be the priority.

This can also serve as a call to examine whether any cultural, traditional, or religious practices have overshadowed the core message of the gospel in one's life.

Cross-References

• Hebrews 10:1 - "For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect."
• Romans 14:17 - "For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost."
• Matthew 5:17 - "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil."

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of Colossians 2:17 include:

• "shadow" (σκιά, skia): Meaning a shade or outline, indicating something that gives an idea of the shape but not the substance.
• "things to come" (μέλλοντα, mellonta): Referring to events or times that are yet to occur.
• "body" (σῶμα, soma): In this context, it likely refers to the substance or the reality that the previous practices foreshadowed, namely, the body of Christ.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient religions, rituals and ceremonies often foreshadowed greater truths or divine events.

For example, in ancient Greco-Roman religion, the Eleusinian Mysteries were thought to foreshadow an afterlife reality.

In Judaism, the practice of animal sacrifices was understood as a precursor to a deeper, more ultimate atonement, which Christians believe is fulfilled in Christ's sacrifice.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, the concept of a "shadow" in Colossians 2:17 denoting a vague representation is analogous to how models or simulations can predict future phenomenon or give insight into more complex realities but are not the realities themselves.

The verse metaphorically speaks of a framework that, like a scientific model, points toward a larger truth.

Commentaries

• Matthew Henry's commentary suggests that the Judaic ordinances Paul refers to were designed by God to point to Christ's coming and, once he had come, they were no longer necessary.
• The Pulpit Commentary notes that these "shadows" are contrasted with the "body," asserting that Christ is the substance and reality to which all Old Testament symbols pointed.
• Barnes' Notes on the Bible emphasizes that Paul intends to show the Colossians that the observances of the ceremonial law are no longer binding, as Jesus has fulfilled them through his life and death.