Colossians 2:19

Authorized King James Version

And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

οὐ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

κρατῶν

G2902

holding

to use strength, i.e., seize or retain (literally or figuratively)

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κεφαλήν

G2776

the Head

the head (as the part most readily taken hold of), literally or figuratively

ἐξ

G1537

from

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

οὗ

G3739

which

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

πᾶν

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#10

σῶμα

G4983

the body

the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively

#11

διὰ

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

#12

τῶν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#13

ἁφῶν

G860

joints

probably a ligament (as fastening)

#14

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#15

συνδέσμων

G4886

bands

a joint tie, i.e., ligament, (figuratively) uniting principle, control

#16

ἐπιχορηγούμενον

G2023

having nourishment ministered

to furnish besides, i.e., fully supply, (figuratively) aid or contribute

#17

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#18

συμβιβαζόμενον

G4822

knit together

causative (by reduplication) of the base of g0939); to drive together, i.e., unite (in association or affection), (mentally) to infer, show, teach

#19

αὔξει

G837

increaseth

to grow ("wax"), i.e., enlarge (literal or figurative, active or passive)

#20

τὴν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#21

αὔξησιν

G838

with the increase

growth

#22

τοῦ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#23

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Colossians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Colossians.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?