Colossians 2:10
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Context
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And ye are complete in him - Και εστε εν αυτῳ πεπληρωμενοι· And, ye are filled with him. Our word complete quite destroys the connection subsisting in the apostle's ideas. The philosophy of the world was empty, κενη, but there was a πληρωμα, or fullness, in Christ; the Colossians were empty - spoiled and deprived of every good, while following the empty philosophy and groundless traditions of Jewish and Gentile teachers; but since they had received Christ Jesus they were πεπληρωμενοι, filled with him. This is the true meaning of the word, and by this the connection and assemblage of ideas in the apostle's mind are preserved. No fanciful completeness in Christ, of a believer, while incomplete in himself, is either expressed or intended by St. Paul. It is too bad a doctrine to exist in the oracles of God. The head of all principality - See the notes on Col 1:16-17 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And--And therefore; and so. Translate in the Greek order, "Ye are in Him (by virtue of union with Him) filled full" of all that you need (Joh 1:16). Believers receive of the divine unction which flows down from their Divine Head and High Priest (Psa 133:2). He is full of the "fulness" itself; we, filled from Him. Paul implies, Therefore ye Colossians need no supplementary sources of grace, such as the false teachers dream of. Christ is "the Head of all rule and authority" (so the Greek), Eph 1:10; He, therefore, alone, not these subject "authorities" also, is to be adored (Col 2:18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And ye are complete in him,.... Or "filled up", or "filled full" in him; that is, are perfect in him: saints are in Christ, and all fulness being in him, they are full too, of as much as they stand in need, and are capable of containing: for these words are not an exhortation to perfection, as the Arabic version reads then, be ye complete in him, like those in Gen 17:1; but are an affirmation, asserting not what the saints shall be hereafter, or in heaven, but what they now are; not in themselves, for in themselves none are perfect, not even those who are truly sanctified; for though all grace is seminally implanted in them, and they have a perfection of parts, of all the parts of the new man, or new creature, and are perfect in comparison of what they sometimes were, and of profane persons and hypocrites, and with respect to weaker believers, yet none are absolutely perfect; the good work of grace is not yet finished in them, sin dwells in them, they are full of wants and complaints; the best of them disclaim perfection as attained to by them, and express their desires of it; but they are perfect in Christ their head, who has all fulness in him, in whom they are chosen and blessed: they are complete and perfect in him as to sanctification; he having all fulness of grace and holiness for them, they have it in him; and he is made perfect sanctification to them: and as to justification, he has perfectly fulfilled the law for them, he has made full atonement for sin, has obtained eternal redemption, brought in a complete and perfect righteousness, by which they are justified from all things; are freed from sin, and made perfectly comely, without spot or wrinkle, or any such thing: and as to knowledge, though it is imperfect in them in their present state, yet in Christ all the treasures of it are, and they have no need to go elsewhere for any; they are filled with the knowledge of God and of his will, and are complete therein in Christ; and what knowledge they have, is eternal life, the beginning, pledge, and earnest of it; so that they have no reason to be beholden to angels or men, only to Christ: which is the head of all principality and power; not only of the body the church, and who is to be held unto as such, from whom all light, life, grace, and strength, are to be derived; but of all others, though in a different sense; and not only of the kings, princes, and potentates of this world, who hold their kingdoms, and receive their crowns from him, and rule by him; but also of the angels, good and bad, often called principalities and powers; especially the former is here meant, of whom Christ is head, being their Creator, Governor, and upholder; who not only maintains them in their beings, but has confirmed them in their state of holiness; so that they are dependent upon him, and beholden to him for all they have and are: with the Jews, "Metatron", which with them is the name of the angel in Exo 23:20 and seems to be a corruption of the word "mediator", and to design the Messiah, is said (w) to be King over all the angels. This is mentioned, partly to set forth the glory and excellency of Christ; and partly against worshipping of angels, making use of them as mediators, or applying to them on any account, since Christ is the head of these, and of every creature; therefore no creature is to be looked and applied unto, trusted and depended on: unless rather should be meant the Jewish rulers, Scribes, and Pharisees, their doctors, wise men, and Rabbins, called the princes of this world; the Jews' tutors and governors, to whom Christ is superior; he is the only master and Father, and in whom perfection of wisdom is, and not in them; and therefore should not regard them, their vain philosophy, worldly rudiments and traditions, (w) Zohar in Deut. fol. 120. 8.
Colossians 2:10
Alive with Christ
9For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity dwells in bodily form.10And you have been made complete in Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.
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Two Creations (Reading)
By Watchman Nee7.3K28:11JHN 15:4ROM 6:4ROM 8:12CO 3:18GAL 2:20EPH 2:10COL 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the work of God in our lives is mysterious and beyond our understanding. He explains that through the new birth, we receive a new and divine life that is separate from our natural life. This new creation in Christ is made possible through the cross and resurrection of Jesus. The preacher encourages believers to abide in Christ and rest in the fact that God has placed them in His Son. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on Christ rather than trying to produce fruit, as it is God's work to fulfill His promises in our lives. The sermon also highlights the distinction between the kingdom of this world, dominated by Satan, and the kingdom of God. The preacher urges believers to have faith in the objective facts of the Gospel, which will transform them and make them fruitful in their Christian walk. The key message is to continually look to Christ and see ourselves in Him, rather than focusing on our own efforts or circumstances.
(Clip) the Word of God and Prayer for Victory
By Milton Green2.4K07:18ISA 53:5ROM 8:372CO 5:172CO 10:4EPH 1:3EPH 2:6PHP 4:13COL 2:10HEB 4:16JAS 4:7This sermon emphasizes the believer's identity in Christ, highlighting being righteous, blessed, redeemed, complete, and seated in heavenly places. It focuses on the authority, power, and blessings received through Jesus Christ, encouraging believers to rule and reign in His name, remove works of darkness, and receive God's grace, love, healing, and deliverance.
(Divine Attributes) 04 Jehovah, the Eternal Self-Existent One
By Denny Kenaston1.7K59:10Character Of GodEXO 3:14ISA 26:4ISA 42:8ISA 43:10MAT 6:33EPH 3:19COL 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the eternal nature of God and how He has created us as eternal beings with never-dying souls. The preacher urges the audience to enter into God's eternal life by believing in Him with their whole being. He encourages them to live for the things that are not seen, as the things that are seen are only temporary. The preacher emphasizes the importance of having a real relationship with God, as He is our eternity. The sermon references the conversation between Moses and God in Exodus 3, highlighting the divine revelation of God's nature through His name.
Featured Audio Sermon: The Triumph of God's Glory
By Festo Kivengere1.2K44:02ISA 43:7JHN 14:3JHN 17:22ROM 8:371CO 15:54PHP 3:20COL 2:101JN 3:2REV 21:4This sermon focuses on the triumphant glory of God, highlighting the journey from daily experiences to the ultimate return of Jesus Christ. It emphasizes the radiant character of God's love, the transformative power of Christ's death and resurrection, and the hope of believers being part of the glorious kingdom. The speaker urges listeners to embrace the triumphant King of Glory, overcome fear and hesitation, and boldly share the message of redemption with the world.
L'autoritã© Du Chrã©tien Par La Foi the Authority We Have by Faith
By Miki Hardy8751:08:10MAT 16:18MRK 16:17PHP 2:9COL 2:10JAS 4:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life of faith as Christians, highlighting that all aspects of our lives should be governed by faith in God. The sermon discusses the authority and power given to believers by God, stressing that faith is essential for this authority to be manifested. It encourages believers to understand and operate in the divine authority given to build the kingdom of God, emphasizing that faith is the key to seeing God's power at work in their lives.
The Church in Revival
By Don Courville45029:17RevivalSpiritual GrowthISA 53:5LUK 2:14ROM 5:81CO 3:1EPH 3:21COL 2:101TI 1:172PE 3:181JN 1:7REV 21:23Don Courville emphasizes the necessity of a personal walk with God for true revival in the church, urging believers to rely on the Holy Spirit rather than human efforts or organizational structures. He reflects on the importance of humility, transparency, and spiritual growth, highlighting that true revival comes from a deep, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Courville shares testimonies of revival in Africa, illustrating how the Holy Spirit can transform lives when believers unite in Christ. He encourages the congregation to seek spiritual growth by glorifying God in all aspects of life, as this is the key to experiencing true revival.
Children of God
By Andrew Murray0Identity as Children of GodReceiving JesusMAT 5:3JHN 1:12ROM 8:142CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 1:3PHP 4:19COL 2:10HEB 4:161JN 3:1Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound truth that receiving Jesus is essential for becoming a child of God. He explains that this reception is not a one-time event but a continuous act of faith, where believers must daily accept Jesus in all His fullness to experience the blessings of God's love. Murray encourages young Christians to recognize their ongoing need for Jesus, asserting that true Christian living involves a constant, childlike reception of Him as Prophet, Priest, and King. He highlights that through faith, believers can embody the characteristics of God's children, relying on Jesus to transform their lives. Ultimately, Murray calls for a heart open to receiving all that God offers through His Son, Jesus.
Expostulation
By William Cowper0PSA 119:9PRO 24:8ROM 6:11ROM 8:1ROM 13:14PHP 4:8COL 2:3COL 2:10JAS 1:14The preacher delves into the concept of 'Provision' (pronoia), emphasizing the importance of not making plans that open the door for sin's entry. He highlights the need to carefully consider and eliminate any subtle provisions made for sinful hindrances in our lives, urging believers to deny both gross appetites and refined carnal attitudes. The sermon stresses the significance of guarding our hearts and minds against sinful behaviors by making no provision for the flesh, as sinful behavior often stems from wrong ideas and lustful desires allowed to linger. The preacher uses various biblical examples and quotes from theologians to illustrate the dangers of toying with temptation and the necessity of staying alert to avoid falling into sin.
Filled With the Spirit
By A.B. Simpson0Holy SpiritSpiritual FulfillmentJHN 7:38GAL 5:22EPH 5:18COL 2:10A.B. Simpson emphasizes the necessity of being filled with the Holy Spirit, explaining that true fullness comes from a personal relationship with Christ rather than mere intellectual understanding or moral adherence. He illustrates that just as barren land can become fruitful with water, our hearts can only thrive when filled with the life of Christ and the Holy Spirit. Simpson outlines the nature, effects, and conditions of this divine filling, asserting that it leads to holiness, happiness, and power in our lives. He encourages believers to recognize their need for Christ, to open their hearts to receive Him, and to actively seek His presence through prayer and service. Ultimately, he reminds us that being filled with the Spirit is a continual process that transforms our lives and enables us to bless others.
Victory Is a Man
By Chip Brogden0ROM 6:41CO 1:30GAL 2:20EPH 1:19EPH 2:6COL 2:10COL 3:1Chip Brogden emphasizes the importance of seeking Christ above all else, as God's desire is for us to have revelation into His Son. Victory is not found in methods or techniques but in Christ Himself, who is our Victory. By being seated with Christ in heavenly places, we overcome not by our own efforts but by abiding in Him. Victory is not about fighting battles but resting in the finished work of Christ, understanding that His overcoming is our overcoming.
A Holiness Revival!
By Andrew Murray0Full SalvationHolinessMAT 5:48JHN 10:10ROM 6:142CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 3:19COL 2:101TH 5:23HEB 12:141PE 1:15Andrew Murray emphasizes the transformative power of a holiness revival, drawing parallels between the evangelistic efforts of Whitefield and Wesley, who sought deliverance from both the guilt and power of sin. He highlights how their experience in the 'Holy Club' led to a profound understanding of faith that claims the fullness of Christ, which in turn fueled their impactful preaching. Murray also acknowledges the contributions of General Booth and the Salvation Army in promoting a message of complete devotion and salvation. Despite doctrinal differences, he notes the undeniable divine endorsement on the fervent desire to preach full salvation and total consecration to Christ.
Obedience
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0MAT 5:16JHN 13:171CO 15:58GAL 5:22COL 2:101JN 2:6W.H. Griffith Thomas emphasizes the transformative power of understanding the Christian life, stating that knowledge is essential for spiritual growth, protection, and peace. He highlights the importance of putting knowledge into action through character development and service, culminating in a life of blessedness. The sermon underscores the significance of knowing Christ for justification, sanctification, and consecration, leading to a life of obedience, love, and impactful service in the home, church, nation, and the world.
Section I. the Conviction Produced
By Jesse T. Peck0ROM 12:1COL 2:10HEB 4:16HEB 10:221JN 1:9Jesse T. Peck preaches about the importance of consecration and faith in seeking holiness. He emphasizes the need to renounce worldly dependencies and fully trust in the cleansing power of Jesus' blood. The sermon highlights the significance of making a sincere consecration to God, separating oneself from worldly influences, and dedicating all aspects of life to His service. It encourages the listener to exercise faith in the sympathy and triumph of Jesus, approaching the throne of grace boldly to obtain mercy and find grace in times of need.
The Great Multitude of Fishes
By Raymond Golsworthy0MAT 11:5MAT 16:18JHN 6:63JHN 14:14JHN 21:6ACT 1:82CO 5:17COL 2:10HEB 4:12REV 7:9Raymond Golsworthy preaches on the significance of the miracle in John 21:1-11, the last of the eight signs in John's Gospel, which occurred after Jesus' resurrection and before His ascension. The miracle of the fishes symbolizes important principles for effective ministry: the objective of catching men, gathering a multitude for God's kingdom, and aiming for spiritual maturity in those we reach. The sermon emphasizes the need for painful preparation, letting go of self-confidence, and allowing Christ to take over in our service. It concludes with a call to balance these principles with the recognition of God's grace working through His Word and gospel, and the importance of patience in discerning true spiritual transformation.
Letter: 6e 16 Bro. & Brethren, Ireland, Rec'd April 30th, 1833
By John Nelson Darby0Unity in ChristSpiritual VigilanceROM 13:111CO 1:102CO 5:17GAL 5:13EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 2:10HEB 10:24JAS 1:271JN 4:7John Nelson Darby expresses his deep affection for the church in Ireland, reflecting on the importance of walking in love and unity among believers. He shares his experiences during a recent journey, including the death of a fellow passenger, which serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the need for spiritual vigilance. Darby emphasizes the necessity of maintaining a close relationship with God to ensure peace and guidance in their service. He warns against sectarianism and encourages the church to remain open and welcoming to all Christians. His heartfelt prayer is for the church to be kept from the influences of evil and to grow in the fullness of Christ's love.
The Preachers Prepared
By David Servant0LUK 24:25JHN 16:12JHN 20:17ACT 1:31CO 15:32CO 5:14GAL 2:20EPH 2:4COL 2:101PE 1:3David Servant delves into the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection as revealed in the book of Acts and the epistles, emphasizing the gradual unveiling of the full revelation of His accomplishments post-resurrection. Despite Jesus' attempts to prepare His disciples for His death and resurrection, they struggled to comprehend the magnitude of these events until after His resurrection. Through various post-resurrection appearances, Jesus revealed the necessity of His death and resurrection, leading to a deeper understanding of the disciples' new relationship with God and the foundational truths of the gospel.
Section 2- Ephesians 1:3
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0JHN 14:141CO 3:212CO 5:21EPH 1:3EPH 1:6COL 2:10HEB 9:14Lewis Sperry Chafer preaches on the Epistle to the Ephesians, highlighting the three distinct lines of truth: the believer's exalted position, the truth about the Church as Christ's Body, and the consistent walk of the saved. The Epistle emphasizes the believer's exalted position secured by God's grace, followed by the call to live a worthy life. It stresses that God accomplishes the believer's position in Christ before calling them to live accordingly, contrary to the human concept of earning merit. The sermon delves into the believer's standing in Christ, the relationship between the Father and the Son, and the spiritual blessings bestowed on believers in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.
The Wisdom of God, Displayed in the Way of Salvation
By Jonathan Edwards0EXO 15:3EXO 34:7ROM 3:26EPH 3:10COL 2:101PE 1:12Jonathan Edwards preaches about the wisdom of God displayed in the way of salvation through Jesus Christ, far surpassing the wisdom of angels. He explains how the work of redemption unveils the mystery of Christ to the church and angels, revealing the manifold wisdom of God. Edwards emphasizes that the salvation by Jesus Christ not only glorifies God's attributes but also benefits the angels by allowing them to behold the glory of God in a new light, making Christ their head, and expanding their heavenly society. The sermon highlights how the redemption of mankind turns the dishonor of sin into an occasion for God's greatest glory, glorifying attributes like justice, holiness, and truth, and ultimately requiring the salvation of believers as an act of divine justice and truth.
For He Hath Made Him to Be Sin for Us
By C.H. Spurgeon0Righteousness in ChristAssurance of SalvationROM 8:12CO 5:21EPH 1:6COL 2:10HEB 4:14C.H. Spurgeon encourages mourning Christians to find solace in the perfection of Christ, reminding them that their acceptance before God is not based on their own righteousness but on Christ's sacrifice. He emphasizes that believers are clothed in the righteousness of God, making them complete and free from condemnation despite their struggles with sin. Spurgeon reassures that their standing is secure in Christ, who intercedes for them, and urges them to rejoice in their identity as accepted in the beloved. He highlights the transformative power of Christ being made sin for humanity, allowing believers to attain the righteousness of God. Ultimately, he calls Christians to live joyfully, anticipating their eternal reign with Christ.
Christ Is All!
By A.W. Tozer0Assurance in FaithSufficiency of ChristJHN 14:6EPH 1:3COL 2:10HEB 13:5A.W. Tozer emphasizes that new Christians must quickly learn that Jesus Christ is all they need for their spiritual journey. He asserts that true belief in Christ allows individuals to declare their independence from external validations and reassurances. Tozer critiques modern evangelicalism for its lack of assurance and tendency to seek external evidence to support faith, which can lead to doubt when faced with opposing views from science and philosophy. He encourages believers to turn to the Scriptures, particularly the books of John, Ephesians, Colossians, and Hebrews, to find the assurance they seek in Christ alone.
The Head of the Body, the Assembly" (1)
By H.J. Vine0JHN 6:40ROM 10:20EPH 4:15COL 1:18COL 2:10H.J. Vine preaches on the importance of recognizing and praising the Head of the church, Jesus Christ, rather than focusing solely on the activities of the church. Believers are saved by grace, justified by faith, and sealed by the Spirit, finding rest and peace in Christ's finished work. Colossians 1:18 emphasizes that Jesus, the Son of God, is the Head of the body, the assembly, holding pre-eminence in all things and bringing reconciliation and fullness to believers.
The Ascent to the Mount of Vision
By Jane Lead0ACT 4:8ACT 6:5EPH 1:15EPH 5:18COL 1:9COL 2:10COL 3:162PE 1:2In this sermon, the preacher delves into the meaning of 'pleroo,' emphasizing the concept of being filled to the brim with the Spirit, causing permeation and domination in the believer's life. The sermon explores the idea of being fully equipped for the Christian journey and the importance of allowing the Spirit to control and dominate our thoughts, emotions, and will. The preacher highlights the significance of being constantly filled with the Spirit, leading to joy, thankfulness, and submission, and ultimately enabling believers to discern and perform God's will.
Early Testimony
By Norman Grubb0JHN 14:6JHN 15:5ACT 17:281CO 1:24GAL 2:20EPH 1:23COL 2:10COL 3:111JN 4:81JN 5:11Norman Grubb shares his journey of feeling inadequate in his missionary work in Africa, realizing his need for love, faith, and power. He initially sought self-improvement but learned that it was both a sin and impossibility. Through studying the Bible, he discovered that God is love, Christ is the power of God, and Jesus Christ is eternal life. Grubb's ultimate realization was that believers in Christ find their completeness in Him, as 'Christ is all and in all.'
Perfect in Christ Jesus
By C.H. Spurgeon0Transformation through SalvationPerfection in ChristISA 61:10ROM 8:12CO 5:17EPH 1:6PHP 1:6COL 2:10HEB 10:141PE 2:91JN 3:2JUD 1:24C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the reality of human imperfection, acknowledging that our daily experiences reveal our flaws and shortcomings. However, he offers profound comfort in the truth that believers are 'perfect in Christ Jesus,' accepted and complete in Him despite our imperfections. Spurgeon encourages the faithful to look forward to the ultimate perfection that awaits, where all stains of sin will be removed, and believers will be presented faultless before God. He paints a vivid picture of transformation, where the flawed are made glorious through Christ, inspiring joy and admiration for this marvelous salvation. The sermon ultimately celebrates the hope and assurance found in being complete in Christ.
Judgment of the Believer's Works
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0JHN 3:18JHN 17:23ROM 5:1ROM 14:101CO 1:301CO 4:51CO 11:322CO 5:10EPH 1:6EPH 6:8COL 2:10COL 2:132TI 4:8HEB 10:14REV 20:11REV 22:12Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the biblical teachings on judgment and rewards for believers. He emphasizes that the child of God, under grace, is assured not to come into judgment for their sins, as Christ has already borne the penalty for all sin past, present, and future. While believers are beyond condemnation and accepted in Christ's perfection, they will still give an account of their daily life and service before the judgment seat of Christ. The judgment seat of Christ evaluates the believer's works for rewards or loss of rewards, separate from their eternal salvation, which is secure through Christ's finished work.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And ye are complete in him - Και εστε εν αυτῳ πεπληρωμενοι· And, ye are filled with him. Our word complete quite destroys the connection subsisting in the apostle's ideas. The philosophy of the world was empty, κενη, but there was a πληρωμα, or fullness, in Christ; the Colossians were empty - spoiled and deprived of every good, while following the empty philosophy and groundless traditions of Jewish and Gentile teachers; but since they had received Christ Jesus they were πεπληρωμενοι, filled with him. This is the true meaning of the word, and by this the connection and assemblage of ideas in the apostle's mind are preserved. No fanciful completeness in Christ, of a believer, while incomplete in himself, is either expressed or intended by St. Paul. It is too bad a doctrine to exist in the oracles of God. The head of all principality - See the notes on Col 1:16-17 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And--And therefore; and so. Translate in the Greek order, "Ye are in Him (by virtue of union with Him) filled full" of all that you need (Joh 1:16). Believers receive of the divine unction which flows down from their Divine Head and High Priest (Psa 133:2). He is full of the "fulness" itself; we, filled from Him. Paul implies, Therefore ye Colossians need no supplementary sources of grace, such as the false teachers dream of. Christ is "the Head of all rule and authority" (so the Greek), Eph 1:10; He, therefore, alone, not these subject "authorities" also, is to be adored (Col 2:18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And ye are complete in him,.... Or "filled up", or "filled full" in him; that is, are perfect in him: saints are in Christ, and all fulness being in him, they are full too, of as much as they stand in need, and are capable of containing: for these words are not an exhortation to perfection, as the Arabic version reads then, be ye complete in him, like those in Gen 17:1; but are an affirmation, asserting not what the saints shall be hereafter, or in heaven, but what they now are; not in themselves, for in themselves none are perfect, not even those who are truly sanctified; for though all grace is seminally implanted in them, and they have a perfection of parts, of all the parts of the new man, or new creature, and are perfect in comparison of what they sometimes were, and of profane persons and hypocrites, and with respect to weaker believers, yet none are absolutely perfect; the good work of grace is not yet finished in them, sin dwells in them, they are full of wants and complaints; the best of them disclaim perfection as attained to by them, and express their desires of it; but they are perfect in Christ their head, who has all fulness in him, in whom they are chosen and blessed: they are complete and perfect in him as to sanctification; he having all fulness of grace and holiness for them, they have it in him; and he is made perfect sanctification to them: and as to justification, he has perfectly fulfilled the law for them, he has made full atonement for sin, has obtained eternal redemption, brought in a complete and perfect righteousness, by which they are justified from all things; are freed from sin, and made perfectly comely, without spot or wrinkle, or any such thing: and as to knowledge, though it is imperfect in them in their present state, yet in Christ all the treasures of it are, and they have no need to go elsewhere for any; they are filled with the knowledge of God and of his will, and are complete therein in Christ; and what knowledge they have, is eternal life, the beginning, pledge, and earnest of it; so that they have no reason to be beholden to angels or men, only to Christ: which is the head of all principality and power; not only of the body the church, and who is to be held unto as such, from whom all light, life, grace, and strength, are to be derived; but of all others, though in a different sense; and not only of the kings, princes, and potentates of this world, who hold their kingdoms, and receive their crowns from him, and rule by him; but also of the angels, good and bad, often called principalities and powers; especially the former is here meant, of whom Christ is head, being their Creator, Governor, and upholder; who not only maintains them in their beings, but has confirmed them in their state of holiness; so that they are dependent upon him, and beholden to him for all they have and are: with the Jews, "Metatron", which with them is the name of the angel in Exo 23:20 and seems to be a corruption of the word "mediator", and to design the Messiah, is said (w) to be King over all the angels. This is mentioned, partly to set forth the glory and excellency of Christ; and partly against worshipping of angels, making use of them as mediators, or applying to them on any account, since Christ is the head of these, and of every creature; therefore no creature is to be looked and applied unto, trusted and depended on: unless rather should be meant the Jewish rulers, Scribes, and Pharisees, their doctors, wise men, and Rabbins, called the princes of this world; the Jews' tutors and governors, to whom Christ is superior; he is the only master and Father, and in whom perfection of wisdom is, and not in them; and therefore should not regard them, their vain philosophy, worldly rudiments and traditions, (w) Zohar in Deut. fol. 120. 8.