… in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
Summary: When we look at the full context of Paul’s message, it becomes clear that the “treasures of wisdom and knowledge” are found only in Christ. Paul emphasizes that true wisdom isn’t hidden in secret teachings or outside sources, but in Christ alone.
What are the “treasures of wisdom and knowledge?”
As I read this verse, I find myself thinking about the whole of Paul’s thinking. He says:
“My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Colossians 2:2-3)
Is encouragement worth anything?
It is if you are discouraged. Especially if you are discouraged to the point of giving up. To be encouraged to receive the gift of hope. Hope keeps us going when the world around us seems to want to push us down.
How about being united? Is that worth anything?
If the opposite of being united with others is being alone, yes. Loneliness can be devastating. It is one of the devil’s most powerful tools for discouraging us and driving us to despair. Being united with others is the antidote to loneliness.
Then there is Paul’s reference to “complete understanding.”
The Greek word “synesis” used by Paul can be described as two rivers flowing into one. One river is called “Knowledge,” and the other is called “Understanding.” When knowledge and understanding come together, the power of the river is unstoppable.
This is where we get to the “mysteries of God.”
God knows everything! (Hebrews 4:13) There is nothing hidden from him. That means from God’s perspective, there are no mysteries. God doesn’t have to wonder about anything because he knows!
When Paul says the “treasures of wisdom and knowledge” are “hidden” in Christ, part of his meaning is that God knows all things. The other part has to do with our willingness to receive these “treasures” from God.
Our connection with God is Jesus (John 14:6). Jesus provides us with another connection, the Holy Spirit (John 15:26). People who reject Jesus are not able to receive God’s Spirit. (This is why he speaks in parables — Matthew 13:10-17.)
To be given the Word of God, the Bible, and the Spirit of God, the Holy Spirit, is an incredible gift. Through them, we have access to all the “treasures of wisdom and knowledge” that we can handle.
Application: Got questions? Ask Jesus!
Food for Thought: How does God’s wisdom and knowledge change people?
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