What does Colossians 1:16 mean?
Paul continues His adoration of Jesus, now stating that Jesus is the creator of all things. The Greek construction here refers to "in him" or "through him." Creation, as described in the book of Genesis, took place by the power of Jesus the Son as well as the Father and Spirit (Genesis 1:1–3). This verse is Paul's effort to show the all-encompassing nature of Christ's creative power. It included absolutely everything imaginable: heaven, earth, visible, invisible. And, it included all living things, such as the angels and spiritual powers. Paul uses similar wording in Romans 8:37–39, referring to all possible aspects of creation. There, his intent is to show that nothing whatsoever can separate the believer from God's love.Paul also adds that all things are made by Jesus, and they are also created through Jesus, and for Jesus. Since Jesus is God, all of reality is the result of His own power. Creation exists for His glory (John 17:24). Paul would use similar words in Romans 11:36, saying, "For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen."