Colossians 2:22

Authorized King James Version

Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἅ

G3739

Which

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

ἐστιν

G2076

are

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

πάντα

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

εἰς

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

φθορὰν

G5356

perish

decay, i.e., ruin (spontaneous or inflicted, literally or figuratively)

τῇ

G3588

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

ἀποχρήσει

G671

with the using

the act of using up, i.e., consumption

κατὰ

G2596

after

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

τὰ

G3588

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

#10

ἐντάλματα

G1778

the commandments

an injunction, i.e., religious precept

#11

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#12

διδασκαλίας

G1319

doctrines

instruction (the function or the information)

#13

τῶν

G3588

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

#14

ἀνθρώπων

G444

of men

man-faced, i.e., a human being

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Colossians chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?