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NASB | Colossians 1:16 For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things have been created through Him and for Him. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Colossians 1:16 For by Him all things were created in heaven and on earth, [things] visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities; all things were created and exist through Him [that is, by His activity] and for Him. |
Bible Question: What does the word "invisible" refer to in this verse? Things like air and viruses or Angels? |
Bible Answer: Greetings, Ekip In our materialistic culture this word can be misunderstood to mean only that which cannot be seen with the naked eye. But the word in this context means truly invisible. The invisible is truly there but it cannot be seen, no matter how powerful a microscope one invents. "Invisible" in this context refers to the spirit world of angels and demons. They cannot be seen ("perceived" would be a better word) unless they manifest themselves or God "opens our eyes" to perceive them. And of course, God himself is not of some material substance. His is spirit. (John 4:24) Num 22:31 Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way with his drawn sword in his hand; and he bowed all the way to the ground. Judg 13:20 For it came about when the flame went up from the altar toward heaven, that the angel of the LORD ascended in the flame of the altar. When Manoah and his wife saw this, they fell on their faces to the ground. Judg 13:21 Now the angel of the LORD did not appear to Manoah or his wife again. Then Manoah knew that he was the angel of the LORD. 2 Kin 6:17 Then Elisha prayed and said, "O LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see." And the LORD opened the servant's eyes and he saw; and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. 1 Tim 1:17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. |