Colossians 2:3

3. in whom are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge hidden.

Translation and Paraphrase

3. (For) in him (that is, in Christ) are all the treasures of (divine) wisdom and knowledge hidden (though they are not hidden to any who seek them in Christ; they are wholly hidden from those who seek elsewhere.)

Notes

1.

We all desire to know the ultimate and unchangeable truths of the universe. We crave reliable information. We want to know the right way to live, the way that will really help us. In Christ all of these treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden.

2.

Colossians 2:3 is a sharp dig at the Gnostics. Their very name indicates that they thought they were the knowing ones. In their self-assumed wisdom they shunted Christ to a lower place. Paul asserts that the true wisdom they were seeking is to be found in the one they thrust aside. (See Introductory study on Gnosticism.)

Also Paul's remark about all wisdom being hidden in Christ would be contrary to those who loved the human philosophy, mentioned in Colossians 2:8.

3.

Wisdom is hidden in Christ. Perhaps it would be more accurate to state simply that it is found only in Christ. The wisdom in Christ is not hidden from anyone, except those who are too proud to seek it in Christ. Those who seek it in him find it readily.

Study and Review

37.

Who is referred to by the whom in Colossians 2:3?

38.

What is hid in Christ?

39.

How did Colossians 2:3 specially apply to the Gnostics?