Commentaries:
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Colossians 2:11-13
In verses 11-13, Paul explains what Christ did for us and how those who have believed in Him are now spiritually circumcised. The subject under discussion is the means of our justification. Paul is saying that, when we repented and were baptized, the "old man" of sin was buried in a watery grave, and our sins were completely forgiven through our faith in the sacrifice of Christ. After being raised out of the water, we were "made alive" with Him and imputed to be righteous in God's sight. Paul refers to this process as "circumcision made without hands," that is, spiritual circumcision.
Earl L. Henn
Was God's Law Nailed to the Cross?Related Topics: Baptism | Baptism as Symbol of Burial | Baptism as Symbol of Death | Circumcised in the Mind | Circumcision | Circumcision of the Heart | Circumcision, Spiritual | Circumcision, Symbolism Behind | Death of the "Old Man" | Justification | Old Man | Put off the Old Man | Watery Grave
Colossians 2:11-15
In verses 11 through 14, Paul shows how Jesus Christ died to pay the penalty for our sins and now our past sins, brought about by conforming to the ways, practices, and philosophies of this world, are completely blotted out and nailed to His cross. He reminds them that Christ has completely conquered all of the evil spirits who continue to rule this present, evil world and who inspire the pagan philosophies that had so influenced the Colossian society: "Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it" (verse 15).
Earl L. Henn
Are the Sabbath and Holy Days Done Away?Related Topics: Antinomianism | Cheap Grace | Demonic principalities | God's Law Done Away | Grace | Holy Days "Done Away" | Justification | Law "Done Away" | Sabbath "Done Away"
Colossians 2:11-13
Paul shows that circumcision typifies putting off the old man of sin that is buried in a watery grave at baptism. After being raised from the water in newness of life (Romans 6:4), the repentant sinner stands before God perfect, holy, and sinless. The process of spiritual circumcision is complete, and the symbol of physical circumcision is fulfilled.
Earl L. Henn
Why We Must Put Out LeavenRelated Topics: Baptism | Baptism as Symbol of Burial | Baptism as Symbol of Death | Circumcised in the Mind | Circumcision | Circumcision of the Heart | Circumcision, Physical | Circumcision, Spiritual | Circumcision, Symbolism Behind | Put off the Old Man | Watery GraveOther Forerunner Commentary entries containing Colossians 2:11:
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