Colossians 1:19

For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Him,

Study Bible

For God was pleased
The phrase "For God was pleased" indicates divine intention and satisfaction. The Greek word used here is "εὐδόκησεν" (eudokēsen), which conveys a sense of delight and purposeful choice. This reflects the sovereign will of God, emphasizing that the actions and plans of God are not arbitrary but are carried out with divine pleasure and purpose. In the broader scriptural context, this aligns with the idea that God's plans are always for the ultimate good and fulfillment of His creation, as seen in passages like Jeremiah 29:11.

to have all His fullness
The term "fullness" is translated from the Greek word "πλήρωμα" (plērōma), which signifies completeness or totality. In the context of Colossians, it underscores the complete and perfect nature of Christ as the embodiment of God. This fullness is not partial or limited; it encompasses all the divine attributes and essence. Historically, this counters the Gnostic belief prevalent at the time, which suggested that divine fullness was distributed among various emanations. Instead, Paul asserts that all of God's fullness is found in Christ alone, affirming His deity and sufficiency.

dwell in Him
The word "dwell" comes from the Greek "κατοικῆσαι" (katoikēsai), meaning to settle or reside permanently. This indicates that the fullness of God is not temporarily or partially present in Christ but is a permanent and intrinsic aspect of His being. Theologically, this speaks to the incarnation, where God took on human form in the person of Jesus Christ. This dwelling is reminiscent of the Old Testament tabernacle, where God's presence resided among His people, now fully realized in Christ. It highlights the intimate and unbreakable union between the divine and human natures in Jesus, offering believers a profound assurance of God's presence and work in the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The supreme being, creator, and sustainer of the universe, who is pleased to have His fullness dwell in Christ.

2. Jesus Christ
The central figure of Christianity, in whom the fullness of God dwells, signifying His divine nature and authority.

3. Paul
The apostle who authored the letter to the Colossians, addressing the church in Colossae to affirm the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ.

4. Colossae
An ancient city in Asia Minor, where the church addressed in this letter was located. It was a place influenced by various religious and philosophical ideas.

5. The Church
The body of believers in Colossae, and by extension, all Christians who are recipients of Paul's teachings on the nature of Christ.

Teaching Points

The Fullness of God in Christ
Understand that Jesus is not merely a reflection of God but embodies the complete nature and essence of God.

Recognize the significance of Christ's divinity in our faith, affirming His authority and sufficiency in all things.

The Pleasure of God
Reflect on the fact that it was God's pleasure to have His fullness dwell in Christ, indicating the divine plan and purpose in the incarnation.

Consider how this divine pleasure should influence our worship and reverence for Christ.

Christ's Supremacy and Sufficiency
Acknowledge that Christ's divine fullness makes Him supreme over all creation and sufficient for our salvation and spiritual needs.

Apply this understanding by trusting in Christ alone for guidance, strength, and fulfillment.

Unity with Christ
Embrace the truth that as believers, we are united with Christ, who embodies the fullness of God, empowering us to live out our faith.

Let this unity motivate us to pursue holiness and reflect Christ's character in our daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding that "all His fullness" dwells in Christ impact your view of Jesus' role in your life?

2. In what ways can recognizing the fullness of God in Christ influence your worship and relationship with Him?

3. How does the concept of God's pleasure in having His fullness dwell in Christ encourage you in your faith journey?

4. What practical steps can you take to rely on Christ's sufficiency in areas where you feel lacking or inadequate?

5. How can the truth of Christ's divine fullness help you address challenges or doubts about your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 1:14
This verse speaks of the Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us, highlighting the incarnation of Christ and His divine nature.

Philippians 2:9-11
These verses emphasize the exaltation of Christ and His divine authority, which aligns with the fullness of God dwelling in Him.

Hebrews 1:3
This passage describes Christ as the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of His being, reinforcing the concept of God's fullness in Christ.

Ephesians 1:22-23
These verses discuss the church as the body of Christ, filled with the fullness of Him who fills everything in every way.

John 14:9
Jesus' statement that seeing Him is seeing the Father underscores the fullness of God dwelling in Christ.