What is Pleroma?
For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily (Col. 2:9 KJV).
The apostle Paul revealed a staggering truth about Jesus: the fullness of God dwelling in Him bodily. But what does he mean by “fullness”?
The word “fullness” in Colossians 2:9 is translated from the Greek word pleroma, meaning “the full measure of deity.” This means that everything that makes God God dwelled in Jesus as a man. Consider the many attributes and virtues of God that Scripture reveals to us: power, wisdom, grace, love, patience, and excellence. Jesus embodied the fullness of God’s person, personality, and attributes.
Since Jesus was fully God while He lived on earth, it might not be surprising that the fullness of God dwelled in Jesus. However, that is not the point Paul is making. He wants us to understand that the fullness of God dwelled in Jesus as a man—not as God. This means that Jesus, as a Human Being in His body, contained the fullness of God.
But Paul didn’t stop there. In the next verse, he revealed another shocking mystery: “You have been filled in him” (Colossians 2:10, ESV). In Christ, what filled Jesus filled the believer. The fullness of God dwells in us bodily as it dwelt in Jesus. This is beyond human comprehension, yet it is the grace Jesus lavishes upon us.
It is amazing to consider that the fullness of God can dwell bodily in a human being. This is the mystery that Paul revealed to us. This truth should empower us to live a life that reflects the glory of God. Brethren, what is in us is far greater than the darkness in the world. Arise, shine, for your light has come!
Meditate
Read Colossians 2:9 again and ponder on those powerful words.
Apply The Word
Let this truth transform the way you live. Your strength or abilities do not limit you. The fullness of God dwells in you!
Pray
Ask the Spirit to reveal how you can live out this truth daily.
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