Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. (Colossians 2:14-15)
The powerful imagery Paul used as an illustration in Colossians 2:14-15 tells us a bit more about what Jesus died to provide for us. The first dynamic word is the first word in these verses: blotting. Jesus did not just erase your sins; he blotted out the page with His blood to ensure that there is no evidence of the sin ever again.
However, Jesus didn’t stop there. He then spoiled principalities and powers. All the demonic spirits of hell came against Jesus when He descended, but Jesus didn’t just defeat them, He spoiled them. The word spoiled is the Greek word apekduomai and means to strip away and disarm someone of every weapon. Jesus ensured the enemy had no more weapons to successfully attack God’s people.
Then Jesus made a shew of them openly. The Greek word here for openly is parrhesia and means boldly and unashamedly. Jesus displayed His victory over the enemy so all could see. Jesus defeated death, hell, and the grave so we could walk in our authority with boldness and understanding.
Practical Application
Take communion by yourself this week and remind yourself of what the blood provided for you. His sacrifice disarmed the enemy and displayed Christ’s victory so you could walk in authority without fear every day of your life.