As the days grow shorter and the air carries a crisp anticipation, Churches of Christ South Africa joins the world in the countdown to Easter. This holy season, steeped in traditions of remembrance and renewal, finds its foundation in a truth far deeper than springtime symbolism. Colossians 2:9-10 offers a profound message about the completeness found in Christ, a message that resonates especially strong as we inch closer to Easter Sunday.
The passage declares: “For in him all the fullness of deity dwells in bodily form, and in him you have been made complete, and he is the head of all rule and authority.” (Colossians 2:9-10). These verses, rich in theological significance, unpack the transformative power of Christ. Let’s delve into the essence of this message and explore how it deepens our understanding of Easter.
Firstly, the passage emphasizes the “fullness of deity” residing in Christ. The Greek word for “fullness” here is “pleroma,” signifying an overflowing abundance. John 1:14 echoes this sentiment, stating, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” Christ, in His earthly ministry, wasn’t merely a human prophet; He was the embodiment of God Himself, walking among us.
This truth becomes even more remarkable when contrasted with the prevailing philosophies of Colossae. The city was rife with mystical teachings that emphasized attaining spiritual completeness through various rituals and ascetic practices. Colossians 2:8 warns against “empty philosophies” and traditions “handed down by men.” The abundance spoken of here isn’t found in external practices but resides within Christ himself.
Secondly, the passage assures believers of their “completeness in Him.” The word translated as “complete” is “kateirtÃzein,” which means to be brought to an end, perfected, or lacking nothing. In a world obsessed with self-improvement and striving for an unattainable ideal, this verse offers solace. Our inherent incompleteness is not a void to be filled with worldly pursuits but a space to be surrendered to Christ. Romans 8:1 proclaims, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Through faith, we are no longer defined by our shortcomings but are made whole in Christ.
This concept of completeness is beautifully interwoven with the Easter narrative. The cross, often seen as a symbol of suffering, takes on a new dimension in light of Colossians 2:9-10. Christ, the embodiment of divine fullness, willingly embraced the ultimate sacrifice. His death on the cross wasn’t a defeat, but the culmination of His mission to reconcile humanity to God. Through His resurrection, Christ’s victory over sin and death is secured, offering us the promise of not just spiritual completeness but also eternal life.
As Easter approaches, Colossians 2:9-10 serves as a powerful reminder. We are not called to chase after empty substitutes for the wholeness we yearn for. True fulfilment lies not in religious rituals or worldly achievements but in a genuine relationship with Christ. His sacrifice on the cross offers us the completeness we desperately seek, a completeness that transcends the limitations of this earthly life.
This Easter, let us move beyond the painted eggs and celebratory brunches. Let us delve into the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice, the embodiment of divine fullness. In Him, we find not just forgiveness for our sins but the very essence of who we were created to be. As we reflect on the coming holy week, let Colossians 2:9-10 be our guiding light, leading us towards the true riches of Easter – the glorious completeness found in Christ.
