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You asked

how does the new testament echo or reframe old testament cosmic descriptions?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Colossians 1:15-17

who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in the heavens and on the earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things have been created through him, and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.

The Apostle Paul, writing from prison, is addressing the church in Colossae, a city in Asia Minor, likely in the mid-1st century CE. He is emphasizing the supremacy and centrality of Christ in creation and in the church, countering some early beliefs that might have diminished his unique role.

What does it mean for 'all things to hold together' in Christ, both in the visible world and beyond?

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

  • Genesis 1:1

    This verse introduces God as the sole creator of the heavens and the earth, setting the stage for cosmic origins.

  • John 1:1-3

    This passage similarly identifies 'the Word' (Christ) as active in the very beginning of creation, and that nothing was made without him.

  • Hebrews 1:1-3

    This highlights God speaking through his Son, who upholds the universe by his powerful word, echoing the idea of Christ sustaining all things.

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