What do we do with Colossians 1:16, “For by Him all things were created, that are in heaven and that are in earth?” Does this mean All things? Or is it explained by the rest of the verse: ” Whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him,” even musical instruments. ~ Tracy Rhodes
The verse reads: “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him” (Colossians 1:16). The words “all things” literally read in the Greek, “the all.” This refers to the creation of the universe. The word “created” in the Greek means to bring something into existence from nothing. This verse states that Jesus Christ is responsible for creation of the visible universe as well as other aspects of the created universe that are not visible to the eye. Musical instruments, automobiles, homes, etc. are not created but fashioned or made (reworked) from existing (already created) materials. Hence, Colossians 1:16 has no reference to manufactured or even handcrafted items for which mankind may be responsible. Mankind cannot do what is in this verse attributed to Jesus and this verses does not either attribute to Jesus what mankind makes from pieces of the created universe. Further, in the next verse, Jesus is attributed with causing what he created to continue to exist, without which power and interest of Jesus all the created universe would cease instantly to exist.
