Colossians 2:17

These are a shadow of the things to come, but the body that casts it belongs to Christ.

Study Bible

These are a shadow
The phrase "These are a shadow" refers to the ceremonial laws and rituals of the Old Testament, such as dietary laws, festivals, and Sabbaths. The Greek word for "shadow" is "skia," which implies a mere outline or a foreshadowing of something greater. In the context of the Bible, shadows are often used to signify things that are temporary and not the ultimate reality. The Old Testament laws served as a precursor to the coming of Christ, who is the fulfillment of the law. This understanding is crucial for Christians, as it emphasizes that the rituals were not the end goal but pointed towards something more substantial and eternal.

of the things to come
This phrase indicates that the Old Testament laws and rituals were prophetic, pointing towards future realities. The "things to come" are the spiritual truths and realities brought about by the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In a historical context, the Jewish people were awaiting the Messiah, and these laws were a preparation for His coming. Theologically, this points to the new covenant established through Christ, which brings a deeper, more profound relationship with God, transcending the old covenant's limitations.

but the body that casts it
The term "body" here is translated from the Greek word "sōma," which signifies the substance or reality as opposed to the shadow. The "body" represents the true form and essence of what the shadows pointed towards. In a spiritual sense, this means that the reality of salvation, grace, and truth is found in Christ. The "body" is the fulfillment and completion of what the Old Testament laws symbolized. This highlights the transition from the old covenant, based on adherence to the law, to the new covenant, centered on faith in Christ.

belongs to Christ
This phrase underscores the centrality of Christ in Christian faith and theology. Everything that the Old Testament foreshadowed finds its fulfillment in Jesus. The Greek word for "belongs" is "estin," which denotes possession or ownership. This indicates that the reality and substance of all spiritual truths are found in Christ alone. Historically, this was a radical shift for early Christians, especially those from a Jewish background, as it redefined their understanding of the law and their relationship with God. From a conservative Christian perspective, this affirms the belief that salvation and spiritual fulfillment are found exclusively in Jesus Christ, who is the cornerstone of faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Colossians, addressing the church in Colossae.

2. Colossae
An ancient city in Phrygia, Asia Minor, where the early Christian church was established.

3. Christ
Central figure in Christianity, whose life and teachings are the foundation of the faith.

4. Jewish Traditions
The context of the "shadow" refers to Jewish laws and customs, such as dietary laws and festivals.

5. The Church
The body of believers in Christ, who are the recipients of Paul's teachings.

Teaching Points

Understanding the Shadow
The Old Testament laws and rituals were a shadow, a foreshadowing of the reality found in Christ. They were not the end but pointed to something greater.

Christ as the Fulfillment
Jesus is the substance, the reality that fulfills the shadows of the Old Covenant. Our focus should be on Him rather than on the rituals that pointed to Him.

Freedom in Christ
Believers are no longer bound by the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament. Our relationship with God is based on faith in Christ, not adherence to the law.

Living in the Reality
As Christians, we are called to live in the reality of Christ's finished work, embracing the freedom and fullness found in Him.

Unity in the Body
Recognizing that the body belongs to Christ encourages unity among believers, as we are all part of His body, the church.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the concept of "shadow" versus "substance" change your perspective on Old Testament laws and rituals?

2. In what ways can you focus more on Christ, the substance, in your daily walk with God?

3. How does the freedom found in Christ impact your view of religious traditions and practices?

4. What are some practical ways you can live out the reality of being part of the body of Christ in your community?

5. How can the teachings in Colossians 2:17 help you address legalism in your own life or in the church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 10:1
This verse also speaks of the law as a shadow of good things to come, emphasizing the temporary and preparatory nature of the Old Covenant.

Galatians 3:24-25
Paul discusses the law as a guardian until Christ came, highlighting the transition from the law to faith in Christ.

Matthew 5:17
Jesus speaks about fulfilling the law, which connects to the idea that the substance belongs to Christ.

John 1:14
The Word became flesh, indicating the reality and fulfillment found in Christ.

Ephesians 1:22-23
Describes the church as the body of Christ, reinforcing the idea of the body belonging to Him.