King James Version

What Does Colossians 2:7 Mean?

“Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.”

Context

For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.

As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:

Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. rudiments: or, elements make a prey: or, seduce you, or, lead you astray

For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.

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Topics in This Verse

Faith

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(7) **Rooted and built up in him.**—There is a significant change of tense in the original, *having been rooted*—*i.e.* (as in Ephesians 3:17), “rooted and grounded” in Him once for all, and *being built up* continually on that Foundation. (Comp. 1Corinthians 3:9-15.) St. Paul bids them seek not only the first basis of their faith, but their continual growth, in Christ alone, by continual “strengthening in the faith” which rests in Him. We may remember that in the Gnostic teaching faith was held good for the beginner or the common herd, “knowledge” was the bright particular jewel of those who went on to perfection. **Abounding **(or, *overflowing*) **therein with thanksgiving.**—The metaphor is changed. The cup of faith, filled to the full, runs over in that thanksgiving which is the expression both of faith and love.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Colossians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Colossians 2:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.