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How should we understand the words, “in him all things were created” in Col 1.16? Although commonly taken to mean Christ created the universe, this view has contextual, structural, and exegetical problems. In what follows I’ll name six problems with old-creation readings before laying out why a new creation approach makes sense. I presented this talk at the 2025 Unitarian Christian Alliance (UCA) conference in Uxbridge, England. Scroll down to see the full-length paper. For those listening to the audio, here’s a quick reference to Colossians 1.15-20 Strophe 1 (Col 1.15-18a) 15a who is (the) image of the invisible God, 15b firstborn of all creation 16a for in him were created all things 16b in the heavens and upon the earth, 16c the visible and the invisible, 16d whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities 16e all things have been created through him and for him 17a and he is before all things 17b and all things hold together in him 18a and he is the head of the body of the Church,[12] Strophe 2 (Col 1.18b-20) 18b who is (the) beginning, 18c firstborn from the dead, 18d in order that he may be first in all things, 19 for in him was pleased all the fulness to dwell 20a and through him to reconcile all things in him, 20b making peace through the blood of his cross 20c whether the things upon the earth 20d or the things in the heavens Here’s Randy Leedy’s New Testament Diagram Here are the slides in the original PowerPoint format Download [13.82 MB] Here are the slides converted to PDF Loading... Taking too long? Reload document | Open in new tab Download [3.16 MB] To read the paper, simply scroll down or read it on Academia.edu. Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts —— Links —— Check out these other papers by Sean Finnegan Support Restitutio by donating here Join our Restitutio Facebook Group and follow Finnegan on X @RestitutioSF Leave a voice message via SpeakPipe with questions or comments and we may play it out on the air Who is Sean Finnegan? Read his bio here Get Finnegan’s book, Kingdom Journey to learn about God’s kingdom coming on earth as well as the story of how Christianity lost this pearl of great price. Get the transcript of this episode Intro music: Good Vibes by MBB Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported (CC BY-SA 3.0) Free Download / Stream: Music promoted by Audio Library. Below is the paper presented on July 25, 2025 in Uxbridge, England at the 2nd annual UCA UK Conference. Access this paper on Academia.edu to get the pdf. Full text is below, including bibliography and end notes. Colossians 1.16: Old Creation or New Creation? by Sean P. Finnegan Abstract How should we understand the words, “in him all things were created” in Col 1.16? Although commonly taken to mean Christ created the universe, this view has contextual, structural, and exegetical problems. In what follows, I will explain the difficulties with the various old creation readings of Col 1.16 along with five reasons for a new creation approach. Then I'll provide a new creation reading of Col 1.16 before summarizing my findings in the conclusion. Introduction Colossians 1.15-20 is a fascinating text of great importance for Christology. Commonly understood to be a hymn, it is fascinating in its cosmic scope and elevated Christology. Although many commentators interpret Paul[1] to say that Christ created the universe in his pre-existent state in Col 1.16, not all scholars see it that way. For example, Edward Schillebeeckx writes, “There is no mention in this text of pre-existence in the Trinitarian sense.”[2] Rather he sees “an eschatological pre-existence, characteristic of wisdom and apocalyptic.”[3] G. B. Caird agreed that Paul's focus in Col. 1.15-20 was not pre-existence (contra Lightfoot), rather, “The main thread of Paul's thought, then, is the manhood of Christ.”[4] In other words, “All that has been said in vv. 15-18 can be said of the historical Jesus.”[5] James Dunn also denied that Paul saw Christ as God's agent in creation in Col 1.15-20, claiming that such an interpretation was “to read imaginative metaphor in a pedantically literal way.”[6] James McGrath argued that “Jesus is the one through whom God's new creation takes place.” [7] Andrew Perriman likewise noted, “There is no reference to the creation of heaven and earth, light and darkness, sea and dry land, lights in the heavens, vegetation, or living creatures,”[8] also preferring a new creation approach.[9] To understand why such a broad range of scholars diverge from the old creation interpretation of Col 1.16, we will examine several contextual, structural, and exegetical problems. While explaining these, I'll also put forward four reasons to interpret Col 1.16 as new creation. Then I'll provide a fifth before giving a new creation reading of Col 1.15-20. But before going any further, let's familiarize ourselves with the text and structure. The Form of Col 1.15-20 To get our bearings, let me begin by providing a translation,[10] carefully structured to show the two strophes.[11] Strophe 1 (Col 1.15-18a) 15a who is (the) image of the invisible God, 15b firstborn of all creation 16a for in him were created all things 16b in the heavens and upon the earth, 16c the visible and the invisible, 16d whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities 16e all things have been created through him and for him 17a and he is before all things 17b and all things hold together in him 18a and he is the head of the body of the Church,[12] Strophe 2 (Col 1.18b-20) 18b who is (the) beginning, 18c firstborn from the dead, 18d in order that he may be first in all things, 19 for in him was pleased all the fulness to dwell 20a and through him to reconcile all things in him, 20b making peace through the blood of his cross 20c whether the things upon the earth 20d or the things in the heavens Here I've followed the two-strophe structure (1.15-18a and 18b-20) noted more than a century ago by the classical philologist Eduard Norden[13] and repeated by James Robinson,[14] Edward Lohse,[15] Edward Schweizer,[16] James Dunn,[17] Ben Witherington III,[18] and William Lane[19] among others. By lining up the parallel lines of the two strophes, we can clearly see the poetic form. Strophe 1 15a who is (the) image… 15b firstborn of all creation 16a for in him were created all things… 16e all things have been created through him… Strophe 2 18b who is (the) beginning, 18c firstborn from the dead … 19 for in him was pleased all… 20a and through him to reconcile all things in him… Such striking repeated language between the two strophes means that we should be careful to maintain the parallels between them and not take a grammatical or exegetical position on a word or phrase that would disconnect it from the parallel line in the other strophe. Some scholars, including F. F. Bruce,[20] Michael Bird,[21] David Pao,[22] among others proposed vv. 17-18a as an independent transitional link between the two strophes. Lohse explained the motivation for this unlikely innovation as follows. Above all, it is curious that at the end of the first, cosmologically oriented strophe, Christ is suddenly referred to as the “head of the body, the church” (1:18a κεφαλή τοῦ σώματος τῆς ἐκκλησίας). Considering its content, this statement would have to be connected with the second strophe which is characterized by soteriological statements. The structure of the hymn, however, places it in the first strophe.[23] For interpreters who prefer to think of the first strophe as cosmogony and the second as soteriology, a line about Christ's headship over the church doesn't fit very well. They restructure the form based on their interpretation of the content. Such a policy reverses the order of operations. One should determine the form and then interpret the content in light of structure. Lohse was right to reject the addition of a new transitional bridge between the two strophes. He called it “out of the question” since vv. 17-18a underscore “all things” and “serve as a summary that brings the first strophe to a conclusion.”[24] Now that we've oriented ourselves to some degree, let's consider old creation readings of Col 1.16 and the problems that arise when reading it that way. Old Creation Readings Within the old creation paradigm for Col 1.16 we can discern three groups: those who see (A) Christ as the agent by whom God created, (B) Wisdom as the agent, and (C) Christ as the purpose of creation. Although space won't allow me to interact with each of these in detail, I will offer a brief critique of these three approaches. As a reminder, here is our text in both Greek and English. Colossians 1.16 16a ὅτι ἐν αὐτῷ ἐκτίσθη τὰ πάντα 16b ἐν τοῖς οὐρανοῖς καὶ ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς, 16c τὰ ὁρατὰ καὶ τὰ ἀόρατα, 16d εἴτε θρόνοι εἴτε κυριότητες εἴτε ἀρχαὶ εἴτε ἐξουσίαι· 16e τὰ πάντα δι' αὐτοῦ καὶ εἰς αὐτὸν ἔκτισται· 16a for in him were created all things 16b in the heavens and upon the earth, 16c the visible and the invisible, 16d whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities 16e all things have been created through him and for him 1. Christ as the Agent of Creation Scot McKnight is representative in his claim that “The emphasis of the first stanza is Christ as the agent of creation … and the second is Christ as the agent of redemption.”[25] This view sees the phrase “in him were created all things” as Christ creating the universe in the beginning. However, this position has six problems with it. Firstly, the context of the poem—both before (vv. 13-14) and after (vv. 21-22)—is clearly soteriological not cosmogonical.[26] By inserting vv. 15-20 into the text after vv. 13-14, Paul connected the two together.[27] V. 15 begins with ὅς ἐστιν (who is), which makes it grammatically dependent on vv. 13-14. “It is widely accepted,” wrote Dunn, “that this passage is a pre-Pauline hymn interpolated and interpreted to greater or less extent by Paul.”[28] By placing the poem into a redemptive frame, Paul indicated how he interpreted it. The fact that God “rescued us from the authority of darkness and transferred (us) into the kingdom of his beloved son” is the controlling context (v. 13).[29] As I will show below, I believe vv. 15-20 are ecclesiology not protology, since ecclesiology naturally flows from soteriology. Rather than remaining in the old domain of darkness, vulnerable to malevolent spiritual powers of this age, Colossian Christians are transferred into the new domain of Christ. The context makes it more natural to interpret the creation language of vv. 15-16 in light of Christ's redemptive work—as references to new creation rather than old creation. Doing so retains the contextual frame rather than jumping back to the beginning of time. A second problem arises when we consider the phrase “image of the invisible God” in v. 15. Although some see a Stoic or Wisdom reference here, I agree with F. F. Bruce who said, “No reader conversant with the OT scriptures, on reading these words of Paul, could fail to be reminded of the statement in Gen. 1:26f., that man was created by God ‘in his own image.'”[30] Immediately after making humanity in his own image, God blessed us with dominion over the earth. Philo also connected humanity's image of God with “the rulership over the earthly realms.”[31] But if the Christ of v. 15 is the pre-existent son prior to his incarnation, as the old creation model posits, “How can he be the ‘image of God,'” asked Eduard Schweizer, since “the one who is thus described here is not the earthly Jesus?”[32] It is precisely by virtue of his humanity that Jesus is the image of God not his pre-existence.[33] Thus, image-of-God language points us to the creation of a new humanity. A third problem is that “firstborn of all creation” prima facia implies that Christ is a member of creation (a partitive genitive). This is how Paul thought about Christ as firstborn in Rom 8.29 when he called Christ “firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” Clearly he saw Christ as a member of the “ἀδελφοῖς” (brothers and sisters). Furthermore, “πρωτότοκος πάσης κτίσεως” (firstborn of all creation) in v. 15 parallels “πρωτότοκος ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν” (firstborn from the dead) v. 18. Although the former (v. 15) can be taken as a genitive of subordination (firstborn over creation) or as a partitive genitive (firstborn of creation), the latter (v. 18) is unambiguously partitive. Because v. 18 includes the word ἐκ (from/out of), instead of a multivalent genitive, it must mean that Jesus was himself a member of the dead prior to his resurrection. Likewise, he was the firstborn member of creation. To take v. 15 as a genitive of subordination and v. 18 in a partitive sense allows theology to drive exegesis over against the clear structural link between v. 15b and v. 18c. In fact, as the BDAG noted, Christ is “the firstborn of a new humanity.”[34] He is chronologically born first and, by virtue of that, also preeminent.[35] Fourthly, the phrase, “ἐν αὐτῷ” (in him), implies soteriology not protology as it does throughout the Pauline corpus. The prepositional phrases “in Christ,” “in the Lord,” “in him,” and others that are similar occur more than a hundred times in Paul's epistles. McKnight elucidated the sense nicely: “This expression, then, is the inaugurated eschatological reality into which the Christian has been placed, and it also evokes the new-creation realities that a person discovers.”[36] Creation in Christ is not likely to refer to Genesis creation. In fact, apart from Col 1.16, there is no text within Paul or the rest of the Bible that speaks of the origin of the universe as something created “in Christ.”[37] Sadly translators routinely obscure this fact by translating “ἐν αὐτῷ” as “by him.”[38] Amazingly, the NASB and ESV render “ἐν αὐτῷ” as “in him” in every other usage apart from Col 1.16![39] For the sake of consistency, it makes better sense to render “ἐν αὐτῷ” as “in him” and let the reader decide how to interpret it. Fifthly, the line, “and he is the head of the body, the Church” (v. 18a) clearly roots the first strophe in redemptive history not creation. Our English translations follow Robert Estienne's verse divisions, which confusingly combine the last line of the first strophe (v. 18a) and the first line of the second (v. 18b), obscuring the native poetic structure. As I made the case above, the structure of the text breaks into two strophes with v. 18a included in the first one. As I mentioned earlier, vv. 15-20 are a pre-existing poem that Paul has modified and incorporated into the text of Colossians. Ralph Martin pointed out that the poem contains “no less than five hapax legomena” and “about ten non-Pauline expressions.”[40] Additionally, there appear to be awkward additions that disrupt the symmetry. These additions are the most explicitly Christian material. It is likely that the original said, “and he is the head of the body” to which Paul appended “the church.” Edward Schillebeeckx commented on this. In Hellenistic terms this must primarily mean that he gives life and existence to the cosmos. Here, however, Colossians drastically corrects the ideas … The correction made by Colossians is to understand ‘body' as a reference to the church, and not the cosmos. This alters the whole perspective of the cultural and religious setting … The cosmic background is reinterpreted in terms of salvation history and ecclesiology. In fact Christ is already exercising his lordship over the world now … however, he is doing this only as the head of the church, his body, to which he gives life and strength. Thus Colossians claims that the church alone, rather than the cosmos, is the body of Christ.[41] If this is true, it shows Paul's careful concern to disallow a strictly old creation or protological reading of the first strophe. For by inserting “of the church,” he has limited the context of the first strophe to the Christ event. “The addition of ‘the church,'” wrote Dunn, “indicates that for Paul at any rate the two strophes were not dealing with two clearly distinct subjects (cosmology and soteriology).”[42] Karl-Joseph Kuschel wrote, “The answer would seem to be he wanted to ‘disturb' a possible cosmological-protological fancy in the confession of Christ … to prevent Christ from becoming a purely mythical heavenly being.”[43] Thus Paul's addition shows us he interpreted the creation of v16 as new creation. Lastly, theological concerns arise when taking Col 1.16 as old creation. The most obvious is that given the partitive genitive of v. 15, we are left affirming the so-called Arian position that God created Christ as the firstborn who, in turn, created everything else. Another thorn in the side of this view is God's insistence elsewhere to be the solo creator (Isa 44.24; cf. 45.18). On the strength of this fact, modalism comes forward to save the day while leaving new problems in its wake. However, recognizing Col 1.15-20 as new creation avoids such theological conundrums. 2. Wisdom as the Agent of Creation Dustin Smith noted, “The christological hymn contains no less than nine characteristics of the wisdom of God (e.g., “image,” “firstborn,” agent of creation, preceding all things, holding all things together) that are reapplied to the figure of Jesus.”[44] Some suggest that Col 1.15-20 is actually a hymn to Wisdom that Paul Christianized.[45] The idea is that God created the universe through his divine Wisdom, which is now embodied or incarnate in Christ. Dunn explained it as follows. If then Christ is what God's power/wisdom came to be recognized as, of Christ it can be said what was said first of wisdom—that ‘in him (the divine wisdom now embodied in Christ) were created all things.' In other words the language may be used here to indicate the continuity between God's creative power and Christ without the implication being intended that Christ himself was active in creation.[46] Before pointing out some problems, I must admit much of this perspective is quite noncontroversial. That Jewish literature identified Wisdom as God's creative agent, that there are linguistic parallels between Col 1.15-20 and Wisdom, and that the historical Jesus uniquely embodied Wisdom to an unprecedented degree are not up for debate. Did Paul expect his readers to pick up on the linguistic parallels? Afterall, he could have just said “in her were created all things” in v. 16, clearly making the connection with the grammatically feminine σοφία (Wisdom). Better yet, he could have said, “in Wisdom were created all things.” Even if the poem was originally to Wisdom, Paul has thoroughly Christianized it, applying to Christ what had been said of Wisdom. However, the most significant defeater for this view is that applying Wisdom vocabulary to Christ only works one way. Wisdom has found her home in Christ. This doesn't mean we can attribute to Christ what Wisdom did before she indwelt him any more than we can attribute to the living descendants of Nazis the horrific deeds of their ancestors. Perriman's critique is correct: “The point is not that the act of creation was Christlike, rather the reverse: recent events have been creation-like. The death and resurrection of Jesus are represented as the profoundly creative event in which the wisdom of God is again dynamically engaged, by which a new world order has come about.”[47] Once again a new creation approach makes better sense of the text. 3. Christ as the Purpose of Creation Another approach is to take ἐν αὐτῷ (in him) in a telic sense. Martha King, a linguist with SIL, said the phrase can mean “in association with Christ everything was created” or “in connection with Christ all things were created.”[48] Lexicographer, Joseph Thayer, sharpened the sense with the translation, “[I]n him resides the cause why all things were originally created.”[49] William MacDonald's translation brought this out even more with the phrase, “because for him everything … was created.”[50] The idea is that God's act of creation in the beginning was with Christ in view. As Eric Chang noted, “Christ is the reason God created all things.”[51] G. B. Caird said, “He is the embodiment of that purpose of God which underlies the whole creation.”[52] The idea is one of predestination not agency.[53] Christ was the goal for which God created all things. A weakness of this view is that purpose is better expressed using εἰς or δία with an accusative than ἐν. Secondly, the parallel line in the second strophe (v. 19) employs “ἐν αὐτῷ” in a clearly locative sense: “in him all the fullness was pleased to dwell.” So even though “ἐν αὐτῷ” could imply purpose, in this context it much more likely refers to location. Lastly, Paul mentioned the sense of purpose at the end of v. 16 with “εἰς αὐτὸν ἔκτισται” (for him has been created), so it would be repetitive to take “ἐν αὐτῷ” that way as well. To sum up, the three positions that see Col 1.16 as a reference to old creation all have significant problems. With these in mind, let us turn our attention to consider a fourth possibility: that Paul has in mind new creation. Reasons for a New Creation Reading I've already provided four reasons why Col 1.15-20 refers to new creation: (1) calling Christ the image of God points to the new humanity begun in Christ as the last Adam;[54] (2) since the firstborn of the old creation was Adam (or, perhaps, Seth), Jesus must be the firstborn of the new creation; (3) saying Jesus is the head of the church, limits the focus for the first strophe to the time following the Christ event; (4) the context of the poem, both before (vv. 13-14) and after (vv. 21-22) is soteriological, making an old creation paradigm awkward, while a new creation view fits perfectly. The Catholic priest and professor, Franz Zeilinger, summarized the situation nicely: “Christ is (through his resurrection from the realm of death) Lord over the possession granted to him, of which he is the ἀρχή (beginning) and archetype, … and head and beginning of the eschatological new creation!”[55] Additionally, a new creation paradigm fits best with Paul's elaboration of what visible and invisible things in heaven and on earth he has in mind. Once again, here's our text. 16a for in him were created all things 16b in the heavens and upon the earth, 16c the visible and the invisible, 16d whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities 16e all things have been created through him and for him By specifying thrones, dominions, rulers, and authorities, we discern Paul's train of thought. Form critics are quick to point out that v. 16d is Paul's addition to the poem. Without it, the reader may have thought of sky, land, and animals—old creation. However, with v. 16d present, we direct our attention to political realities not God's creative power or engineering genius. Martha King noted the two possible meanings for εἴτε: (1) specifying the “invisible things” or (2) giving examples of “all things.” Taking the second view, we read “in him were created all things, including thrones, dominions, rulers, and authorities.”[56] Randy Leedy also presented this position in his sentence diagrams, identifying v. 16d as equivalent to v. 16c and v. 16b, all of which modify τὰ πάντα (all things) at the end of v. 16a. (See Appendix for Leedy's diagram.) Perriman pressed home the point when he wrote: The fact is that any interpretation that takes verse 16 to be a reference to the original creation has to account for the narrow range of created things explicitly listed. … The Colossians verse mentions only the creation of political entities—thrones, lordships, rulers and authorities, visible and invisible—either in the already existing heaven or on the already existing and, presumably, populated earth. What this speaks of is a new governmental order consisting of both invisible-heavenly and visibly-earthly entities.”[57] Understanding v. 16d as equivalent to “all things” in v. 16a nicely coheres with a new-creation paradigm. However, taken the other way—as an elaboration of only the invisible created realities—v. 16d introduces an asymmetrical and clumsy appendix. A New Creation Reading of Col 1.16 Now that we've considered some problems with old creation views and some reasons to read Col 1.16 from a new creation perspective, let's consider how a new creation reading works. New creation is all about the new breaking into the old, the future into the present. G. F. Wessels said, “Paul made clear that there is a present realized aspect of salvation, as well as a future, still outstanding aspect, which will only be realized at the eschaton.”[58] New creation, likewise, has future and present realities. Exiting Old Creation Before becoming part of the new creation, one must exit the old creation. “Our old humanity was co-crucified“ (Rom 6.6). “With Christ you died to the elemental principles of the world” (Col 2.20). “As many as were baptized into Christ Jesus, were baptized into his death” (Rom 6.3). We were “co-buried with him through baptism into the death … having been united with the likeness of his death” (Rom 6.4-5). Our death with him through baptism kills our allegiance and submission to the old powers and the old way of life “in which you formerly walked according to the zeitgeist of this world, according to the rule of the authority of the air, the spirit which now works in the children of disobedience” (Eph 2.2). Entering New Creation As death is the only way out of the old creation, so resurrection is the only way into the new creation. “You have been co-raised with Christ” (Col 3.1). God “co-made-alive us together with him” (Col 2.13).[59] By virtue of our union with Christ, we ourselves are already “co-raised and co-seated us in the heavenlies in Christ Jesus” (Eph 2.6). The result of this is that “we also may walk in newness of life” (Rom 6.4). For those who are “in Christ, (there is) a new creation; the old has passed away, behold (the) new has come into existence” (2 Cor 5.17). “They have been ‘transported,'” wrote Schillebeeckx, “they already dwell above in Christ's heavenly sphere of influence (Col 1.13)—the soma Christou … that is the church!”[60] Community For the people of God, “neither circumcision is anything nor uncircumcision but a new creation” is what matters (Gal 6.15). Those who “are clothed with the new” are “being renewed in knowledge according to the image of him who created, where there is no Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave, (or) free, but Christ (is) all and in all” (Col 3.10-11). Through Christ God has nullified the law “in order that he might create the two into one new humanity in him” (Eph 2.14-15). Thus, within new creation, ethnic identity still exists, but it is relativized, our identity in Christ taking priority ahead of other affiliations and duties. Lifestyle When the lost become saved through faith, they become his creation (ποίημα), “created in Christ Jesus for good works” (Eph 2.10). This means we are to “lay aside the former way of life, the old humanity corrupted according to deceitful desires” and instead be clothed with “the new humanity created according to God in righteousness and holiness of the truth” (Eph 4.22-24). Rather than lying to one another, we must “strip off the old humanity with its way of acting” and “be clothed with the new (humanity), renewed in knowledge according to the image of the one who created it” (Col 3.9-10). “The ones who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the passions and the lusts” and instead “walk by the spirit” (Gal 5.24-25). Ultimately, All Creation Although new creation is currently limited to those who voluntarily recognize Jesus as Lord, all “creation is waiting with eager expectation for the unveiling of the children of God” (Rom 8.19). Because of the Christ event, the created order eagerly awaits the day when it will escape “the enslavement of corruption” and gain “the freedom of the glory of the children of God” (v. 21). Like a bone out of joint, creation does not function properly. Once Christ sets it right, it will return to its proper order and operation under humanity's wise and capable rulership in the eschaton. Eschatology God predetermined that those who believe will be “conformed to the image of his son, that he be firstborn among many brothers and sisters” (Rom 8.29). Thus, the resurrected Christ is the prototype, “the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Cor 15.20). Whereas “in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive” (v. 22). We await Christ's return to “transform the body of our humble station (that it be) shaped to his glorious body according to the energy which makes him able to also to subject all things to himself.” (Phil 3.21). This is the end goal of new creation: resurrected subjects of God's kingdom joyfully living in a renewed world without mourning, crying, and pain forevermore (Isa 65.17-25; Rev 21-22). The Powers Taking Col 1.16 as a new creation text adds key information about the present governing powers to this richly textured picture. In Christ God created thrones, dominions, rulers, and authorities. He made these through Christ and for Christ with the result that Christ himself is before all things, and in Christ all things hold together (Col 1.17). He is the head of the body, the Church (Col 1.18). We find very similar language repeated in Ephesians in the context of Christ's exaltation.[61] Ephesians 1.20-23 20 Which [power] he energized in Christ having raised him from the dead and seated (him) on his right (hand) in the heavenlies 21 far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and every name named, not only in this age but also in the one to come; 22 and he subjected all things under his feet and gave him (as) head over all things in the Church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of the one who fills all things in all. The parallels are striking. Both speak of Christ's resurrection, Christ's exalted position of authority over all the powers, Christ's role as head of the church, and both mention the fullness. It's easy to miss the connection between these two passages since most think of Eph 1.20-22 as ascension theology and Col 1.15-20 as creation theology. But, if we adjust our thinking to regard Col 1.16 as new creation, we see how the two fit together. In Ephesians we see Christ's ascension to God's right hand as the reason for a cosmic reordering of authorities with the result that all rule, authority, power, and dominion are subjected to him. (Though we may be accustomed to reading these powers in Eph 1.21 as only malevolent owing to Eph 2.2 and 6.12, the list here must be mixed, since only benevolent powers will survive the final judgement and continue into the age to come.) Instead of exaltation, in Colossians Paul employed the language of creation to describe Christ's relation to the powers. Perhaps lesser terms like reassign, reorder, or establish were just too small to adequately express the magnitude of how the Christ event has changed the world—both in heaven and on earth. The only term big enough to convey the new situation was “creation”—the very same word he routinely used elsewhere with the meaning of new creation.[62] We can gain more insight by considering what the powers of Eph 1.21 and Col 1.16 mean. McKnight saw them “as earthly, systemic manifestations of (perhaps fallen) angelic powers—hence, the systemic worldly, sociopolitical manifestations of cosmic/angelic rebellion against God.”[63] I partially agree with McKnight here. He's right to see the powers as both heavenly and earthly, or better, as the heavenly component of the earthly sociopolitical realities, but he has not made room for the new authority structures created in Christ. John Schoenheit helpfully explained it this way: Not only did Jesus create his Church out of Jew and Gentile, he had to create the structure and positions that would allow it to function, both in the spiritual world (positions for the angels that would minister to the Church—see Rev. 1:1, “his angel”) and in the physical world (positions and ministries here on earth—see Rom. 12:4-8; Eph. 4:7-11).[64] We must never forget that Paul has an apocalyptic worldview—a perspective that seeks to unveil the heavenly reality behind the earthly. He believed in powers of darkness and powers of light. In Christ were created thrones, dominions, rulers, and authorities (Col 1.16). He is “the head of all rule and authority” (Col 2.10). These new creation realities make progress against the old powers that still hold sway in the world outside the Church. Although the old powers are still at work, those who are in Christ enjoy his protection. With respect to the Church, he has already “disarmed the rulers and authorities” (Col 2.15). We can don “the armor of God that we be able to stand against the methods of the devil” (Eph 6.11) and “subduing everything, to stand” (v. 13). We find glimpses of this heavenly reality scattered in other places in the Bible. Peter mentioned how Christ “is on the right hand of God, having gone into heaven, angels and authorities and power having been subjected to him” (1 Pet 3.22). In John's Revelation, he addressed each of the seven letters to the angels of their respective churches.[65] Although it's hard for us to get details on precisely what happened at Christ's ascension, something major occurred, not just on earth, but also in the spiritual realm. Jesus's last recorded words in Matthew are: “all authority in heaven and upon earth was given to me” (Mat 28.18-20). Presumably such a statement implies that prior to his resurrection Jesus did not have all authority in heaven and earth. It didn't exist until it was created. Similarly, because of his death, resurrection, and ascension, Christ has “become so much better than the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to them” (Heb 1.4). Once again, the text implies that Christ was not already superior to the angels, but “after making purification of the sins, he sat on the right hand of the majesty on high” at which time he became preeminent (Heb 1.3). Perhaps this also explains something about why Christ “proclaimed to the spirits in prison” (1 Pet 3.19). Another possibility is that Christ's ascension (Rev 12.5) triggered a war in heaven (v. 7) with the result that the dragon and his angels suffered defeat (v. 8) and were thrown out of heaven down to the earth (v. 9). Sadly, for most of the history of the church we have missed this Jewish apocalyptic approach that was obvious to Paul, limiting salvation to individual sins and improved morality.[66] Only in the twentieth century did interpreters begin to see the cosmic aspect of new creation. Margaret Thrall wrote the following. The Christ-event is the turning-point of the whole world … This Christ ‘in whom' the believer lives is the last Adam, the inaugurator of the new eschatological humanity. … Paul is saying that if anyone exists ‘in Christ', that person is a newly-created being. … In principle, through the Christ-event and in the person of Christ, the new world and the new age are already objective realities.[67] New creation is, in the words of J. Louis Martyn “categorically cosmic and emphatically apocalyptic.”[68] In fact, “The advent of the Son and of his Spirit is thus the cosmic apocalyptic event.”[69] In Christ is the beginning of a whole new creation, an intersecting community of angelic and human beings spanning heaven and earth. The interlocking of earthly (visible) and heavenly (invisible) authority structures points to Paul's apocalyptic holism. The Church was not on her own to face the ravages of Rome's mad love affair with violence and power. In Christ, people were no longer susceptible to the whims of the gods that have wreaked so much havoc from time immemorial.[70] No, the Church is Christ's body under his direct supervision and protection. As a result, the Church is the eschatological cosmic community. It is not merely a social club; it has prophetic and cosmic dimensions. Prophetically, the Church points to the eschaton when all of humanity will behave then how the Church already strives to live now—by the spirit instead of the flesh (Gal 5.16-25). Cosmically, the Church is not confined to the earth. There is a heavenly dimension with authority structures instantiated under Christ to partner with the earthly assemblies. God's “plan for the fulness of the times” is “to head up all thing in the Christ, the things upon the heavens and the things upon the earth in him” (Eph 1.10). Although this is his eschatological vision, Zeilinger pointed out that it is already happening. [T]he eschatological world given in Christ is realized within the still-existing earthly creation through the inclusion of the human being in Christ, the exalted one, by means of the proclamation of salvation and baptism. The eschaton spreads throughout the world in the kerygma and becomes reality, in that the human being, through baptism, becomes part of Christ—that is, in unity with him, dies to the claim of the στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου (2.20) and is raised with him to receive his eschatological life. The people thus incorporated into the exalted Christ thereby form, in him and with him, the new creation of the eschaton within the old! The body of Christ is thus recognizable as the expanding Church. In it, heavenly and earthly space form, in a certain sense, a unity.[71] The Church is a counter society, and embassy of the future kingdom shining the light of the age to come into the present in the power of the spirit with the protection of Christ and his heavenly powers over against the powers of darkness, who/which are still quite active—especially in the political realities of our present evil age (Gal 1.4). We bend the knee to the cosmic Christ now in anticipation of the day when “every knee may bend: heavenly and earthly and subterranean” (Phil 2.10) and “every tongue may confess that Jesus Christ (is) Lord” (v. 11). Christ's destiny is to fulfil the original Adamic mandate to multiply, fill, and have dominion over the earth (Gen 1.28). He has already received all authority in heaven and earth (Mat 28.18). God has given him “dominion over the works of your hands and put all things under his feet” as the quintessential man (Ps 8.6). Even so, “Now we do not yet see all things subjected to him” (Heb 2.8), but when he comes “he will reign into the ages of the ages” (Rev 11.15). Until then, he calls the Church to recognize his preeminence and give him total allegiance both in word and deed. Conclusion We began by establishing that the structure of the poetic unit in Col 1.15-20 breaks into two strophes (15-18a and 18b-20). We noted that Paul likely incorporated pre-existing material into Colossians, editing it as he saw fit. Then we considered the problems with the three old creation readings: (A) Christ as the agent of creation, (B) Wisdom as the agent of creation, and (C) Christ as the purpose of creation. In the course of critiquing (A), which is by far most popular, we observed several reasons to think Col 1.16 pertained to new creation, including (1) the image of God language in v. 15a, (2) the firstborn of all creation language in v. 15b, (3) the head of the Church language in v. 18a, and (4) the soteriological context (frame) of the poem (vv. 13-14, 21-22). To this I added a fifth syntactical reason that 16d as an elaboration of “τἀ πάντα” (all things) of 16a. Next, we explored the idea of new creation, especially within Paul's epistles, to find a deep and richly textured paradigm for interpreting God's redemptive and expanding sphere of influence (in Christ) breaking into the hostile world. We saw that new Christians die and rise with Christ, ending their association with the old and beginning again as a part of the new—a community where old racial, legal, and status divisions no longer matter, where members put off the old way of living and instead become clothed with the new humanity, where people look forward to and live in light of the ultimate transformation to be brought about at the coming of Christ. Rather than limiting new creation to the salvation of individuals, or even the sanctifying experience of the community, we saw that it also includes spiritual powers both “in the heavens and upon the earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities” (Col 1.16). Reading Col 1.15-20 along with Eph 1.20-23 we connected God's creation of the powers in Christ with his exaltation of Christ to his right hand “far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and every name named, not only in this age but also in the one to come” (Eph 1.21). The point from both texts is clear: as “the head of the body, the Church” (Col 1.18; Eph 1.22), Christ is “before all things” (Col 1.17), “first in all things” (Col 1.18), and “far above all” (Eph 1.21), since God has “subjected all things under his feet” (Eph 1.22). Christ is preeminent as the firstborn of all new creation, “the new Adam … the starting point where new creation took place.”[72] Although the old powers still hold sway in the world, those in the interlocked heaven-and-earth new creation domain where Christ is the head, enjoy his protection if they remain “in the faith established and steadfast and not shifting away from the hope of the gospel” (Col 1.23). This interpretation has several significant advantages. It fits into Paul's apocalyptic way of thinking about Christ's advent and exaltation. It also holds together the first strophe of the poem as a unit. Additionally, it makes better sense of the context. (The ecclesiology of Col 1.15-18a follows logically from the soteriological context of vv. 13-14.) Lastly, it is compatible with a wide range of Christological options. Appendix Here is Col 1.16 from Leedy's sentence diagrams.[73] Of note is how he equates the τὰ πάντα of 16a with 16c and 16d rather than seeing 16d as an elaboration of τά ὁρατά. Bibliography Bauer, Walter, Frederick William Danker, William F. Arndt, F. Gingrich, Kurt Aland, Barbara Aland, and Viktor Reichmann. A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature. 3rd ed. Chicago: The University of Chicago Press, 2000. Bird, Michael F. Colossians and Philemon. A New Covenant Commentary. Cambridge, England: The Lutterworth Press, 2009. Brown, Anna Shoffner. “Nothing ‘Mere’ About a Man in the Image of God.” Paper presented at the Unitarian Christian Alliance, Springfield, OH, Oct 14, 2022. Bruce, E. K. Simpson and F. F. The Epistles to the Ephesians and the Colossians. The New International Commentary on the New Testament, edited by Ned B. Stonehouse. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1957. Buzzard, Anthony F. Jesus Was Not a Trinitarian. Morrow, GA: Restoration Fellowship, 2007. Caird, G. B. New Testament Theology. Edited by L. D. Hurst. Oxford, England: Clarendon Press, 2002. Caird, G. B. Paul’s Letters from Prison. New Clarendon Bible, edited by H. F. D. Sparks. Oxford, England: Oxford University Press, 1976. Carden, Robert. One God: The Unfinished Reformation. Revised ed. Naperville, IL: Grace Christian Press, 2016. Chang, Eric H. H. The Only Perfect Man. Edited by Bentley C. F. Chang. 2nd ed. Montreal, QC: Christian Disciples Church Publishers, 2017. Deuble, Jeff. Christ before Creeds. Latham, NY: Living Hope International Ministries, 2021. Dunn, James D. G. Christology in the Making. 2nd ed. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1996. Dunn, James D. G. The Epistles to the Colossians and to Philemon. New International Greek Testament Commentary, edited by Gasque Marshall, Hagner. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1996. Heiser, Michael S. The Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible. Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2019. King, Martha. An Exegetical Summary of Colossians. Dallas, TX: SIL International, 1992. Kuschel, Karl-Joseph. Born before All Time? Translated by John Bowden. New York, NY: Crossroad, 1992. Originally published as Beforen vor aller Zeit? Lane, William L. The New Testament Page by Page. Open Your Bible Commentary, edited by Martin Manser. Bath, UK: Creative 4 International, 2013. Leedy, Randy A. The Greek New Testament Sentence Diagrams. Norfolk, VA: Bible Works, 2006. Lohse, Edward. Colossians and Philemon. Hermeneia. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press, 1971. MacDonald, William Graham. The Idiomatic Translation of the New Testament. Norfolk, VA: Bibleworks, 2012. Mark H. Graeser, John A. Lynn, John W. Schoenheit. One God & One Lord. 4th ed. Martinsville, IN: Spirit & Truth Fellowship International, 2010. Martin, Ralph. “An Early Christian Hymn (Col. 1:15-20).” The Evangelical Quarterly 36, no. 4 (1964): 195–205. Martyn, J. Louis. Theological Issues in the Letters of Paul. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 1997. McGrath, James F. The Only True God: Early Christian Monotheism in Its Jewish Context. Urbana, IL: University of Illinois Press, 2009. McKnight, Scot. The Letter to the Colossians. New International Commentary on the New Testament, edited by Joel B. Green. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2018. Norden, Eduard. Agnostos Theos: Untersuchungen Zur Formengeschichte Religiöser Rede. 4th ed. Stuttgart, Germany: B. G. Teubner, 1956. Originally published as 1913. Pao, David. Colossians and Philemon. Zondervan Exegetical Commentary of the New Testament, edited by Clinton E. Arnold. Grand Rapid, MI: Zondervan, 2012. Perriman, Andrew. In the Form of a God. Studies in Early Christology, edited by David Capes Michael Bird, and Scott Harrower. Eugene, OR: Cascade Books, 2022. Philo. The Works of Philo. The Norwegian Philo Concordance Project. Edited by Kåre Fuglseth Peder Borgen, Roald Skarsten. Piscataway, NJ: Gorgias Press, 2005. Robinson, James M. “A Formal Analysis of Colossians 1:15-20.” Journal of Biblical Literature 76, no. 4 (1957): 270–87. Schillebeeckx, Eduard. Christ: The Experience of Jesus as Lord. Translated by John Bowden. New York, NY: The Seabury Press, 1977. Schoberg, Gerry. Perspectives of Jesus in the Writings of Paul. Eugene, OR: Pickwick Publications, 2013. Schweizer, Eduard. The Letter to the Colossians. Translated by Andrew Chester. Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Publishing House, 1982. Smith, Dustin R. Wisdom Christology in the Gospel of John. Eugene, OR: Wipf & Stock, 2024. Snedeker, Donald R. Our Heavenly Father Has No Equals. Bethesda, MD: International Scholars Publications, 1998. Thayer, Joseph Henry. A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament. Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 1996. Thrall, Margaret. The Second Epistle to the Corinthians. Vol. 1. The International Critical Commentary, edited by C. E. B. Cranfield J. A. Emerton, G. N. Stanton. Edinburgh, Scotland: T&T Clark, 1994. Wachtel, William M. “Colossians 1:15-20–Preexistence or Preeminence?” Paper presented at the 14th Theological Conference, McDonough, GA, 2005. Wessels, G. F. “The Eschatology of Colossians and Ephesians.” Neotestamentica 21, no. 2 (1987): 183–202. Witherington III, Ben The Letters to Philemon, the Colossians, and the Ephesians: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary of the Captivity Epistles. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2007. Yates, Roy. The Epistle to the Colossians. London: Epworth Press, 1993. Zeilinger, Franz. Der Erstgeborene Der Schöpfung. Wien, Österreich: Herder, 1974. Footnotes [1] Since the nineteenth century biblical scholars have been divided over whether Paul wrote Colossians. One of the major reasons for thinking Paul didn't write Colossians is his exalted Christology—the very conclusion this paper seeks to undermine. A second major factor to argue against Pauline authorship is the difference in vocabulary, but this is explainable if Paul used a different amanuensis. The theologically more cosmic emphasis (also evident in Ephesians) is likely due to Paul's time in prison to reflect and expand his understanding of the Christ event. Lastly, the proto-Gnostic hints in Colossians do not require dating the epistle outside of Paul's time. Although Gnosticism flourished at the beginning of the second century, it was likely already beginning to incubate in Paul's time. [2] Eduard Schillebeeckx, Christ: The Experience of Jesus as Lord, trans. John Bowden (New York, NY: The Seabury Press, 1977), 185. [3] Schillebeeckx, 185. [4] G. B. Caird, Paul’s Letters from Prison, New Clarendon Bible, ed. H. F. D. Sparks (Oxford, England: Oxford University Press, 1976), 177. [5] Caird, 181. [6] James D. G. Dunn, The Epistles to the Colossians and to Philemon, New International Greek Testament Commentary, ed. Gasque Marshall, Hagner (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1996), 91. “[W]hat at first reads as a straightforward assertion of Christ's pre-existenct activity in creation becomes on closer analysis an assertion which is rather more profound—not of Christ as such present with God in the beginning, nor of Christ as identified with a pre-existent hypostasis or divine being (Wisdom) beside God, but of Christ as embodying and expressing (and defining) that power of God which is the manifestation of God in and to his creation.” (Italics in original.) James D. G. Dunn, Christology in the Making, 2nd ed. (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1996), 194. [7] James F. McGrath, The Only True God: Early Christian Monotheism in Its Jewish Context (Urbana, IL: University of Illinois Press, 2009), 46. [8] Andrew Perriman, In the Form of a God, Studies in Early Christology, ed. David Capes Michael Bird, and Scott Harrower (Eugene, OR: Cascade Books, 2022), 200. [9] In addition, biblical unitarians routinely interpret Col 1.16 as new creation. See Anthony F. Buzzard, Jesus Was Not a Trinitarian (Morrow, GA: Restoration Fellowship, 2007), 189–90, Robert Carden, One God: The Unfinished Reformation, Revised ed. (Naperville, IL: Grace Christian Press, 2016), 197–200, Eric H. H. Chang, The Only Perfect Man, ed. Bentley C. F. Chang, 2nd ed. (Montreal, QC: Christian Disciples Church Publishers, 2017), 151–52, Jeff Deuble, Christ before Creeds (Latham, NY: Living Hope International Ministries, 2021), 163–66, John A. Lynn Mark H. Graeser, John W. Schoenheit, One God & One Lord, 4th ed. (Martinsville, IN: Spirit & Truth Fellowship International, 2010), 493–94, Donald R. Snedeker, Our Heavenly Father Has No Equals (Bethesda, MD: International Scholars Publications, 1998), 291–92, William M. Wachtel, “Colossians 1:15-20–Preexistence or Preeminence?” (paper presented at the 14th Theological Conference, McDonough, GA, 2005), 4. [10] All translations are my own. [11] Stophes are structural divisions drawn from Greek odes akin to stanzas in poetry or verses in music. [12] Throughout I will capitalize Church since that reflects the idea of all Christians collectively not just those in a particular local assembly. [13] Eduard Norden, Agnostos Theos: Untersuchungen Zur Formengeschichte Religiöser Rede, 4th ed. (Stuttgart, Germany: B. G. Teubner, 1956), 250–54. [14] James M. Robinson, “A Formal Analysis of Colossians 1:15-20,” Journal of Biblical Literature 76, no. 4 (1957): 272–73. [15] Edward Lohse, Colossians and Philemon, Hermeneia (Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press, 1971), 44. [16] Eduard Schweizer, The Letter to the Colossians, trans. Andrew Chester (Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Publishing House, 1982), 57. [17] Dunn, The Epistles to the Colossians and to Philemon, 84. [18] Ben Witherington III, The Letters to Philemon, the Colossians, and the Ephesians: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary of the Captivity Epistles (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2007), 129. [19] William L. Lane, The New Testament Page by Page, Open Your Bible Commentary, ed. Martin Manser (Bath, UK: Creative 4 International, 2013), 765. [20] E. K. Simpson and F. F. Bruce, The Epistles to the Ephesians and the Colossians, The New International Commentary on the New Testament, ed. Ned B. Stonehouse (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1957), 65. [21] Michael F. Bird, Colossians and Philemon, A New Covenant Commentary (Cambridge, England: The Lutterworth Press, 2009), 50. [22] David Pao, Colossians and Philemon, Zondervan Exegetical Commentary of the New Testament, ed. Clinton E. Arnold (Grand Rapid, MI: Zondervan, 2012), 87. [23] Lohse, 42. [24] Lohse, 43–44. [25] Scot McKnight, The Letter to the Colossians, New International Commentary on the New Testament, ed. Joel B. Green (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 2018), 144. [26] Col 1.13-14: “who rescued us from the authority of darkness and transferred (us) into the kingdom of his beloved son in whom we have the redemption, the forgiveness of the sins.” Col 1.21-22: “And you being formerly alienated and hostile in thought in the evil deeds, but now he reconciled (you) in his body of the flesh through the death to present you holy and blameless and irreproachable before him.” [27] In fact, we can easily skip from vv. 13-14 to vv. 21-22. [28] Dunn, Christology in the Making, 187–88. [29] Sadly, most translations erroneously insert a paragraph between vv. 14 and 15. This produces the visual effect that v. 15 is a new thought unit. [30] Bruce, 193. [31] Moses 2.65: “τὴν ἡγεμονίαν τῶν περιγείων” in Philo, The Works of Philo, The Norwegian Philo Concordance Project (Piscataway, NJ: Gorgias Press, 2005). See also Sirach 17.3. [32] Schweizer, 64. [33] For a helpful treatment of how the image of God relates to Christology, see Anna Shoffner Brown, “Nothing ‘Mere’ About a Man in the Image of God” (paper presented at the Unitarian Christian Alliance, Springfield, OH, Oct 14, 2022). [34] Walter Bauer et al., A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature, 3rd ed. (Chicago: The University of Chicago Press, 2000), s.v. “πρωτότοκος,” 2.a. [35] Franz Zeilnger wrote, “Christ is temporally the first of a series that essentially proceeds from him, and at the same time its lord and head.” Franz Zeilinger, Der Erstgeborene Der Schöpfung (Wien, Österreich: Herder, 1974), 182. Original: “als “Wurzel” ist Christus zeitlich der erste einer Reihe, die wesentlich aus ihm hervorgeht, und zugleich ihr Herr und Haupt.” [36] McKnight, 85–86. [37] The closest parallels are 1 Cor 8.6; Heb 1.2; and John 1.3, which employ the preposition δια (through). Upon close examination these three don't teach Christ created the universe either. [38] ESV, CSB, NASB, etc. Notably the NET diverges from the other evangelical translations. Roman Catholic, mainline, and unitarian translations all tend to straightforwardly render “ἐν αὐτῷ” as “in him” in Col 1.16; cf. NABRE, NRSVUE, OGFOMMT, etc. [39] Chang, 150. [40] Ralph Martin, “An Early Christian Hymn (Col. 1:15-20),” The Evangelical Quarterly 36, no. 4 (1964): 198. [41] Schillebeeckx, 186. [42] Dunn, Christology in the Making, 191. [43] Karl-Joseph Kuschel, Born before All Time?, trans. John Bowden (New York, NY: Crossroad, 1992), 336. [44] Dustin R. Smith, Wisdom Christology in the Gospel of John (Eugene, OR: Wipf & Stock, 2024), 5–6. For more on wisdom Christology in Col 1.16 see Dunn, The Epistles to the Colossians and to Philemon, 89, Roy Yates, The Epistle to the Colossians (London: Epworth Press, 1993), 18–19, 23, G. B. Caird, New Testament Theology, ed. L. D. Hurst (Oxford, England: Clarendon Press, 2002), 46, McGrath, 44, 46. [45] See Dunn, The Epistles to the Colossians and to Philemon, 89. See also Yates, 18–19, 23. [46] Dunn, Christology in the Making, 190. [47] Perriman, 199. [48] Martha King, An Exegetical Summary of Colossians (Dallas, TX: SIL International, 1992), 53. [49] Joseph Henry Thayer, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament (Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 1996), s.v. “ἐν,” 1722. He recognized the cause was both instrumental and final. [50] William Graham MacDonald, The Idiomatic Translation of the New Testament (Norfolk, VA: Bibleworks, 2012). [51] Chang, 147. Similarly James McGrath wrote, “[I]f all things were intended by God to find their fulfillment in Christ, then they must have been created “in him” in the very beginning in some undefined sense, since it was axiomatic that the eschatological climax of history would be a restoration of its perfect, original state.” McGrath, 46. [52] Caird, Paul’s Letters from Prison, 172. [53] “God so designed the universe that it was to achieve its proper meaning and unity only under the authority of man (Gen. 128; Ps. 86). But this purpose was not to be implemented at once; it was ‘to be put into effect when the time was ripe' (Eph. 110), when Christ had lived a human life as God intended it, and had become God's image in a measure which was never true of Adam. Only in unity with ‘the proper man' could the universe be brought to its destined coherence. For one who believes in predestination it is but a small step from this to saying that the universe was created in him.” Caird, Paul’s Letters from Prison, 178. [54] See also Paul's Adam Christology in Rom 5.12-21; 1 Cor 15.21-22, 45-49. [55] “Christus ist (durch seine Auferstehung aus dem Todesbereich) Herr über den ihm verliehenen Besitz, dessen ἀρχή und Urbild er ist, … und Haupt und Anfang der eschatologischen Neuschöpfung!” Zeilinger, 188. [56] King, 54. [57] Perriman, 200. [58] G. F. Wessels, “The Eschatology of Colossians and Ephesians,” Neotestamentica 21, no. 2 (1987): 187. [59] I realize my translation is awkward, but I prioritized closely mirroring the Greek over presenting smooth English. The original reads, “συνεζωοποίησεν ὑμᾶς σὺν αὐτῷ.” [60] Schillebeeckx, 187. [61] Scholars who make this connection include Caird, New Testament Theology, 216, Caird, Paul’s Letters from Prison, 177, McGrath, 44, Perriman, 201. [62] In fact, only two of the texts I cited above explicitly say “new creation” (2 Cor 5.17 and Gal 6.15). In all the others, Paul blithely employed creation language, expecting his readers to understand that he was not talking about the creation of the universe, but the creation of the new humanity in Christ—the Church. [63] McKnight, 152. [64] Mark H. Graeser, 493. [65] Rev 2.1, 8, 12, 18; 3.1, 7, 14. [66] See Gerry Schoberg, Perspectives of Jesus in the Writings of Paul (Eugene, OR: Pickwick Publications, 2013), 280–81, 83. [67] Margaret Thrall, The Second Epistle to the Corinthians, vol. 1, The International Critical Commentary, ed. C. E. B. Cranfield J. A. Emerton, G. N. Stanton (Edinburgh, Scotland: T&T Clark, 1994), 423, 26–28. [68] J. Louis Martyn, Theological Issues in the Letters of Paul (Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 1997), 122. [69] Martyn, 121. [70] Whether the old gods actually existed or not is a topic beyond the scope of this paper. Interested readers should consult Michael S. Heiser, The Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2019). [71] “[D]ie in Christus gegebene echatologische Welt verwirkliche sich innerhalb der weiterhin existenten irdischen Schöpfung durch die Einbeziehung des Menschen in Christus, den Erhöhten, mittles Heilsverkündigung und Taufe. Das Eschaton setzt sic him Kerygma wetweit durch und wird Wirklichkeit, indem der Mensch durch die Taufe Christi Teil wird, d. h. in Einheit mit ihm dem Anspruch der στοιχεῖα τοῦ κόσμου stirbt (2, 20) und mit ihm auferweckt sein eschatologisches Leben erhält. Die so dem erhöhten Christus eingegliederten Menschen bilden somit in ihm und mit ihm die neue Schöpfung der Eschata innerhalb der alten! Der Christusleib ist somit als sich weitende Kirche erkennbar. In ihr bildet himmlischer und irdischer Raum gewissermaßen eine Einheit.” Zeilinger, 179. [72] “Der neue Adam … Ausgangsort, in dem sich Neuschöpfung ereignete,” Zeilinger, 199. [73] Randy A. Leedy, The Greek New Testament Sentence Diagrams (Norfolk, VA: Bible Works, 2006). This is now available in Logos Bible Software.
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Hebrews 12:3-17 July 27, 2025 preached by Pastor Doug Cooper Download Time of Reflection Quotations “Perseverance is the hard work you do after you get tired of doing the hard work you already did.” ~ Newt Gingrich (1943-present), American politician, historian, and author “The central reality for Christians is the personal, unalterable, persevering commitment God […]
Today's show features: David Thomas, Director, Content Marketing at CDK Global Dennis Gingrich, Sales & Finance Director at The Niello Company Jesse Hill, Corporate Director of F&I Operations at Safford Brown Automotive Group This episode is brought to you by: OPENLANE – The world's best online dealer marketplace for used cars. This August, OPENLANE is spinning up an entire month of excitement with DealerFest 2025. The more you buy and sell, the bigger prizes you earn. Never used OPENLANE before? New dealers can earn up to $2,500 in credits. Learn more at openlane.com/dealerfest. Interested in advertising with Car Dealership Guy? Drop us a line here: https://cdgpartner.com Interested in being considered as a guest on the podcast? Add your name here: https://bit.ly/3Suismu Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
BV with Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich on his new book "Trump's Triumph" and his thoughts on the release of the Obama files in the Russian hoax and the Epstein case on News Radio KKOBSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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It's almost unthinkable the son of a just departed president could be as unhinged as Hunter Biden. The former first son is sitting down for interviews and firing shots at everyone else in the democrat party and it's glorious. Oh, and he's not doing his dad's legacy any favors in the process despite the fact he's trying to help. House Speaker Mike Johnson says he's not afraid to investigate Barack Obama for his role in operation Russia Hoax. But Johnson stops way short of making any promises. Newt Gingrich has written a brilliant column showing how the Congressional Budget Office works against Republicans, and especially Mr. Trump. Wait until you hear the numbers. Salvy hit two more bombs as the Royals blast the Cubs. Man, when this guy is hot, the Royals are hard to beat. What a legend. We are usually a big fan of Colin Cowherd but wait until you hear why he thinks the Chiefs will finish third in the division this year. The Big 12 rejects $250 million from the University of Memphis to join the league and we remember one of the stars of the Cosby Show.
Newt Gingrich, Former Speaker of the House; Best-Selling Author; Fox News Contributor; INITIATIVE: America's New Majority Project NEW BOOK: “Trump's Triumph: America's Greatest Comeback” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Hugh talks with Jim Geraghty, Newt Gingrich, Sen. Steve Daines, Sen. James Lankford, Josh Kraushaar, Rich Lowry, Seth Mandel, and Jim Talent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
July 17, 2025 ~ Newt Gingrich, Former Speaker of the House discusses his new book "Trump's Triumph: America's Greatest Comeback" as well as the latest happenings in Washington DC.
Newt Gingrich joins the show and offers an exclusive look at his new book "Trump’s Triumph: America's Greatest Comeback" July 16th 2025 --- Please Like, Comment and Follow 'The Ray Appleton Show' on all platforms: --- 'The Ray Appleton Show’ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. --- 'The Ray Appleton Show’ Weekdays 11 AM -2 PM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 KMJ | Website | Facebook | Podcast | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
FAN MAIL--We would love YOUR feedback--Send us a Text Message|Donald Trump's second term is rewriting presidential history with a breathtaking sprint of achievements that may signal the dismantling of FDR's nearly century-old New Deal coalition. In just 165 days, Trump has accumulated foreign policy triumphs, legal victories, and domestic policy wins at a pace unseen in modern presidential history.The centerpiece of this remarkable run is the "Big Beautiful Bill" signed into law on Independence Day - a comprehensive piece of legislation that doubles down on supply-side economics in ways not seen since Reagan's presidency. Far from the conventional wisdom that predicted economic doom from tariffs, the economy shows declining inflation, four-year low gas prices, stable unemployment, and record stock market highs.Trump's foreign policy achievements have been equally impressive. Operation Midnight Hammer struck Iran's nuclear facilities, restoring American deterrence and credibility on the world stage. NATO allies have committed to unprecedented 5% of GDP defense spending after years of American pressure. A US-brokered peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda demonstrates Trump's expanding diplomatic influence while securing critical mineral rights.The Supreme Court's ruling in Trump v. Cato Inc. represents a structural change in the balance of power between the judiciary and executive branch by restricting nationwide injunctions - judicial tools that had been weaponized against Trump's agenda. Meanwhile, immigration enforcement has achieved what many thought impossible: a 93% reduction in border encounters compared to the previous year, with zero releases into the United States for consecutive months.What we're witnessing may be more than just a successful presidential term - it could be the beginning of a new American golden age predicated on economic growth, renewed global leadership, and the rolling back of the administrative state. The next three years will determine whether Trump can maintain this momentum and cement his place as one of the most consequential presidents in American history, alongside Washington and Lincoln.Explore the full story of Trump's remarkable comeback in Newt Gingrich's "Trump's Triumph: America's Greatest Comeback" and follow our podcast for continuing analysis of this pivotal moment in American politics.Key Points from the Episode:• Trump's Big Beautiful Bill signed into law on July 4th represents a doubling down on supply-side economics• Operation Midnight Hammer successfully targeted Iran's nuclear facilities, restoring American deterrence• Supreme Court ruling in Trump v. CASA Inc. restricts nationwide injunctions that previously hampered executive action• NATO allies committed to raising defense spending to 5% of GDP following Trump's pressure• Border encounters down 93%, with zero illegal immigrants released into the US for consecutive months• Economic indicators defying predictions: declining inflation, four-year low gas prices, stable 4% unemployment• Trump's success potentially signals the end of FDR's New Deal coalition after nearly a century• Foreign policy victories include US-brokered peace agreement between Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda• Successful tariff negotiations with China and Canada demonstrating America's economic leverageOther resources: Want to leave a review? Click here, and if we earned a five-star review from you **high five and knuckle bumps**, we appreciate it greatly, thank you so much!
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Newt Gingrich, Former Speaker of the House; Best-Selling Author; Fox News Contributor; INITIATIVE: America's New Majority Project NEW BOOK: “Trump's Triumph: America's Greatest Comeback” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dr. William Forstchen is the author of over 50 books, including One Second After and the John Matherson series, which have been on the New York Times bestseller list for over 8 years and are currently being made into a movie. He has also co-authored three Civil War novels with Newt Gingrich. Forstchen is a professor of history at Montreat College and a subject matter expert on national security threats, EMPs, history, and current affairs. This episode is brought to you by Weekly Wealthy Wisdom, Bryan's free weekly newsletter with his latest insights and discoveries on well-being. Subscribe at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/8HtkZbP
Dan Mandis (WTN-Nashville) fills in for Gary and Eric. House Speaker Mike Johnson expects the Big Beautiful Bill to pass early Thursday morning. Overnight as Red Eye began, it seemed President Trump's Big Beautiful Bill was all but dead in the House with unexpected opposition by 5 Republicans and 8 no votes/ Tennessee Congressman Scott Desjarlais joined the show to talk about the stalled bill and whether or not he thought it will eventually pass / Reaction from Newt Gingrich and Congressman Jim Jordan / As early Thursday morning progressed, Trump spoke to the Repubican holdouts by phone and House Speaker Johnson noted they now had the votes to pass the bill / And of course, Senate Democrats repeated the same yawn inducing hyperbole on the dangers of the bill. For more talk on the issues that matter to you, listen on radio stations across America Monday-Friday 12am-5am CT (1am-6am ET and 10pm-3am PT), download the RED EYE RADIO SHOW app, asking your smart speaker, or listening at RedEyeRadioShow.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
50th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Newt Gingrich joins me today. Newt's new book Trump's Triumph is a New York Times best seller. Newt documents President Trump's greatest comeback in political history. Despite a 9 year effort to destroy him, President Trump won popular and electoral votes and became the first president to be nonconsecutively re-elected since President Grover Cleveland. Now that the big, beautiful bill has passed the Senate, President Trump is one step closer to fulfilling his agenda and the promise he made on the campaign trail. If President Trump can keep the House in 2026, the MAGA revolution will be fully institutionalized and set the base for Republicans to win the general election in 2028. Featuring: Speaker Newt Gingrich 50th Speaker of the House of Representatives Host | Newt's World https://gingrich360.com/ Get your copy of Newt's NYT best selling book here: https://a.co/d/caJU795 Today's show is brought to you by these great sponsors: Beam For a limited time got 40% of Beam's Dream Powder. Dream Powder with Reishi, Magnesium, L-Theanine, Apigenin and Melatonin to help you fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up refreshed. Just head to https://shopbeam.com/SPICER for 40% off. Riverbend Ranch Riverbend Ranch has been around for 35 years, selecting cattle that have higher marbling and tenderness than any other beef. You cannot get this beef in your grocery store. Riverbend Ranch ages their beef for 21 days and you'll find it more tender and flavorful than even the finest restaurants. So, if you're ready to have the best steak of your life, head to https://www.riverbendranch.com. Use promo code: SEAN to get $20 of your first order. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1️⃣ Subscribe and ring the bell for new videos: https://youtube.com/seanmspicer?sub_confirmation=1 2️⃣ Become a part of The Sean Spicer Show community: https://www.seanspicer.com/ 3️⃣ Listen to the full audio show on all platforms: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sean-spicer-show/id1701280578 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/32od2cKHBAjhMBd9XntcUd iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-sean-spicer-show-120471641/ 4️⃣ Stay in touch with Sean on social media: Facebook: https://facebook.com/seanmspicer Twitter: https://twitter.com/seanspicer Instagram: https://instagram.com/seanmspicer/ 5️⃣ Follow The Sean Spicer Show on social media: Facebook: https://facebook.com/seanspicershow Twitter: https://twitter.com/seanspicershow Instagram: https://instagram.com/seanspicershow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SEE THE BOYS LIVE - https://www.samtallent.com/ Brisbane Tickets for June 28th - https://brisbanepowerhouse.org/events/sam-tallent/ SPONSORS: HIMS - Support the show and start your free online Hims visit today at https://www.hims.com/CHUBBY SISYPHUS BREWING - Tell them Lund sent ya https://www.sisyphusbrewing.com/pages/events PATREON EPISODES: https://www.Patreon.com/chubbybehemoth This week Sam reveals he has beat his weight loss-donation challenge! Nathan tells us the one way he is like a MMA fighter, is just talking about a cool place that he likes, and has decided on his New Zealand wardrobe. Sam tells us his contingency plan if Pat forgets his CPAP, how the SeaDragon got his ass, and thinks it was probably the best picture. I'm putting one up with Tanntor. Nathan Lund and Sam Tallent are Chubby Behemoth Mutiny Coffee: mutinyonmainstreet@gmail.com
In this thought-provoking episode of The Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda Mitchell sits down with former Speaker of the House and bestselling author Newt Gingrich to discuss his latest book, Trump's Triumph: America's Greatest Comeback. With firsthand insight into Washington power dynamics, Gingrich unpacks how Donald J. Trump defied relentless opposition—from media smear campaigns to legal battles—to win re-election in 2024. Together, they explore the resilience of the MAGA movement, the breakdown of trust in elite institutions, and what Trump's political comeback means for America's future. Whether you're intrigued by modern political history or curious about the forces shaping the next chapter of the American story, this episode offers an unfiltered look through the eyes of one of the most influential Republican figures of our time.
This week, we're trying something new: instead of our usual Next City episode, we're sharing the pilot for “Not My Narrative,” an experimental mini-series that not only debunks harmful myths holding back progress but also elevates the counter-narratives driving positive momentum.In this debut episode of Not My Narrative, Host Lucas Grindley, Executive Director of Next City, takes listeners on an examination of one of America's most pernicious myths: the “pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps” mantra that claims anyone who works hard enough can escape poverty. We trace its origins from 19th-century satire to Reagan, Gingrich, and Clinton, and we'll hear from practitioners who say the “bootstrap” story is quietly determining who merits public assistance, who deserves our sympathy, and who must simply fend for themselves.To unravel its origins and expose its consequences, Luis Ortega, founder of Storytellers for Change, draws on his background in education and community organizing to explain how the bootstraps narrative is woven into our schools, our public discourse, and even our own self-perception. He challenges us to see that when achievement is framed solely as personal grit, it erases entire ecosystems of support—families, neighbors, networks—that actually make success possible.Plus, we revisit two Next City interviews that show what “it takes a village” truly means, as communities care for one another. In Jackson, Mississippi, Aisha Nyandoro, co-founder of Magnolia Mother's Trust, shares how her guaranteed-income pilot for Black mothers demonstrates that material support and dignity go hand in hand. And we revisit a conversation out of Portland, Oregon, where Lisa Larson, vice-chair of Dignity Village, recounts her journey from sleeping on the streets to helping govern a community for the unhoused. If you believe in the power of narrative change—and want more episodes that debunk harmful myths while elevating real-world solutions—please email us at info@nextcity.org and let's think about ways to keep this work going.
Strong Man has now been put into a situation that he wasn't built for. He has to make a clear decision in regard to Israel and Iran. Gone are the days of ad libbing on the debate stage. This is the World Stage, and it is serious. Topics include: making sense of the senseless, life in digital space, old predictions of internet influence, Global Propaganda Matrix, conspiracy tropes, America's position on Israel and Iran (day before bombing happened), MAGA regime, America First and anti-war take on MAGA, infighting is legitimate, Musk vs Trump, can no longer have things both ways, ties to Moscow, Tucker Carlson, Tulsi Gabbard, Israel ties to US, Neocon origins of current American political establishment, War on Terror, Total Information Awareness, current surveillance state, Palantir, public private projects, new MIC, contracts with Israel, stock price surging, Big Tech, geopolitics, real version of Dump Trump, placing JD Vance into power, Trump can't handle being pulled in several directions, weaponization of Conspiracy Culture, Republican Party identity changes, surveillance state used as political tool, dark side of comedy and right wing ecosystem, confrontational nonsense, lowest common denominator always rules online, simple reality has become heresy, gatekeeping, fringe websites reborn on TikTok, new age, technical improvement of online video, AI driving automation and job loss, being led into digital world, living in a virtual reality, transhumanist future, appearance of anti-establishment credibility, Newt Gingrich still Trump's champion, giving due credit to the power of conspiracy ideas
In this bold and wide-ranging episode of Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas, we welcome former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich to discuss his brand-new book, Trump’s Triumph: America’s Greatest Comeback. In the book, Gingrich outlines his vision for the future of the United States under President Donald Trump’s return to office and offers a roadmap for American renewal.Get your copy here: Buy Trump’s Triumph Newt and Gentry tackle some of the most pressing and controversial topics shaping our world today. They discuss the legacy and challenges of former President Joe Biden, the leadership style of former President Barack Obama, and what the American people can expect from a second Trump term. Gingrich also shares his candid perspective on rising global tensions—covering the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, the war in Ukraine, and the growing fear of a potential World War 3. The conversation also explores racial divisions in America and how political discourse, media narratives, and historical context continue to influence national unity. Throughout the interview, Newt draws from his own storied political career, offering insight, sharp commentary, and unapologetic analysis of the past, present, and future of the United States. Don’t miss this unfiltered and timely episode with one of America’s most influential political voices—only on Backstage Pass with Gentry Thomas.
The Age of Transitions and Uncle 6-20-2025AoT#465Strong Man has now been put into a situation that he wasn't built for. He has to make a clear decision in regard to Israel and Iran. Gone are the days of ad libbing on the debate stage. This is the World Stage, and it is serious. Topics include: making sense of the senseless, life in digital space, old predictions of internet influence, Global Propaganda Matrix, conspiracy tropes, America's position on Israel and Iran (day before bombing happened), MAGA regime, America First and anti-war take on MAGA, infighting is legitimate, Musk vs Trump, can no longer have things both ways, ties to Moscow, Tucker Carlson, Tulsi Gabbard, Israel ties to US, Neocon origins of current American political establishment, War on Terror, Total Information Awareness, current surveillance state, Palantir, public private projects, new MIC, contracts with Israel, stock price surging, Big Tech, geopolitics, real version of Dump Trump, placing JD Vance into power, Trump can't handle being pulled in several directions, weaponization of Conspiracy Culture, Republican Party identity changes, surveillance state used as political tool, dark side of comedy and right wing ecosystem, confrontational nonsense, lowest common denominator always rules online, simple reality has become heresy, gatekeeping, fringe websites reborn on TikTok, new age, technical improvement of online video, AI driving automation and job loss, being led into digital world, living in a virtual reality, transhumanist future, appearance of anti-establishment credibility, Newt Gingrich still Trump's champion, giving due credit to the power of conspiracy ideasUtp#373Uncle continues his adventures in content creation. We don't know where we are going, and that is just fine. Topics include: missed show last week, Uncle's customers, Jitsi, going live with TikTok, dial up internet, multiple crack rooms, street cream work in Utah, not dedicated to one platform, have to keep creating content, calls, LA Lakers being sold, Phillies and Mets, kids sports, David Spade and Dana Carvey, Covid issues with media, dried baby shrimp and ramen, Ohio meme, kids live meme culture, watching same YouTube video over and over, AI content creationFRANZ MAIN HUB:https://theageoftransitions.com/PATREONhttps://www.patreon.com/aaronfranzUNCLEhttps://unclethepodcast.com/ORhttps://theageoftransitions.com/category/uncle-the-podcast/FRANZ and UNCLE Merchhttps://theageoftransitions.com/category/support-the-podcasts/---OCHELLI Dot Com is Broke!Anything is a blessing if you have the meansTHANKS TO ALL who have kept us Going over the yearsWithout YOUR support we go silent.PayPalhttps://www.paypal.com/paypalme/ochelliEmail blindjfkresearcher@gmail.comBE THE EFFECTOchelli Link Treehttps://linktr.ee/chuckochelli---NOVEMBER IN DALLAS LANCER CONFERENCEDISCOUNT FOR YOU10 % OFF code = Ochelli10https://assassinationconference.com/Coming SOON Room Discount Details The Fairmont Dallas hotel 1717 N Akard Street, Dallas, Texas 75201. situated with easy access to Dealey Plaza
The madness of King Donald arrived in the state of Georgia and has morphed into a Frankenstein's monster that threatens to devour the Republican Party and doom their electoral chances in a pair of Senate run off races to be held January 5th. After releasing the Kraken of conspiracy and unsupported allegations of election fraud which saw members of their own party face death threats and online harassment, Trump proxies are now apoplectic at their own lawyers for advocating that voters boycott the election until these allegations are settled. Republican Party Reptiles like Newt Gingrich, who eagerly jumped on the conspiracy bandwagon weeks ago, now find themselves back peddling furiously; trying to put the genie back in the bottle. But it's too late, leaving us to wonder, "has the whole world gone crazy?" Michael speaks with Law and Crime's Adam Klasfeld to get these answers and more in a revealing conversation about what's happening at the heart of these ridiculous lawsuits. The madness of King Donald arrived in the state of Georgia and has morphed into a Frankenstein's monster that threatens to devour the Republican Party and doom their electoral chances in a pair of Senate run off races to be held January 5th. After releasing the Kraken of conspiracy and unsupported allegations of election fraud which saw members of their own party face death threats and online harassment, Trump proxies are now apoplectic at their own lawyers for advocating that voters boycott the election until these allegations are settled. Republican Party Reptiles like Newt Gingrich, who eagerly jumped on the conspiracy bandwagon weeks ago, now find themselves back peddling furiously; trying to put the genie back in the bottle. But it's too late, leaving us to wonder, "has the whole world gone crazy?" Michael speaks with Law and Crime's Adam Klasfeld to get these answers and more in a revealing conversation about what's happening at the heart of these ridiculous lawsuits. Also, make sure to check out Mea Culpa: The Election Essays for the definitive political document of 2020. Fifteen chapters of raw and honest political writings on Donald Trump from the man who knows him best. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08M5VKQ6T/ For cool Mea Culpa gear, check out www.meaculpapodcast.com/merch To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
32:11- Sheriff Shaun Golden on conditions in Monmouth County following yesterday's storms 50:37- Daniel Hoffman, Ret. CIA Senior Clandestine Services Officer and a Fox News ContributorTopic: Latest between Israel and Iran, Edan Alexander returns home to Tenafly, NJ 59:38- Col. Kurt Schlichter, Attorney, Retired Army Infantry Colonel with a Masters in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College, Senior Columnist at Town Hall, and the author of "Lost Angeles: Silver Bullets on the Sunset Strip"Topic: Trump weighing military action against Iran 1:26:20- Pastor Corey Brooks, founder and Senior Pastor of New Beginnings Church of Chicago and founder and CEO of Project H.O.O.D. Communities Development CorporationTopic: Christians killed in Nigeria 1:32:56- Dr. Betsy McCaughey, New York Post columnist, former Lt. Gov. of NY State, Chairwoman and founder of the Committee to Reduce Infection DeathsTopic: "Subway crime starts at the turnstile — and every Democrat fails the test" (New York Post op ed) 1:46:35- Gordon Chang, Asia expert, columnist and author of "China is Going to War"Topic: Mystery flights from China to Iran 1:55:25- Monmouth County power update from JCP&L Spokesman Christopher Hoenig 2:00:52- Elizabeth Pipko, Former GOP National Spokesperson, model, actress, and the author of "Finding My Place"Topic: Israeli-Iranian conflict 2:15:52- Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and 2012 presidential candidate, Chairman of Gingrich 360, and a Fox New contributorTopic: His new book- "Trump's Triumph: America's Greatest Comeback"See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich joins Mike to breakdown what he thinks will come from the war brewing between Israel and Iran. Plus, Kent Strang from Americans for Prosperity joins Mike to discuss the new additions to the Big Beautiful Bill that will help the average American! Keep up with the Trump Administration when you subscribe to The Trump Report. This email brings you daily highlights from the Oval Office, right to your inbox, 5 days a week. Subscribe today at http://salempodcastnetwork.com/trump.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
No greater dichotomy on display than this weekend's activities. The "no kings" astroturfing designed to suggest huge swaths of the country fear President Trump because he's carrying out the promises he made and the reason 77 million people elected. Meanwhile, President Trump celebrates the Army's 250th anniversary with a parade through the streets of D.C. and even MSNBC has to admit, it's not "dark and authoritarian" at all. In fact, it's down right happy and patriotic. No one better captures this than former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich and his brand new book "Trump's Triumph." He and Stigall always have a great conversation. Plus, former deputy national security advisor to President Trump - Victoria Coates on Israel's strike on Iran. Where does it go from here? Will the US get involved? And what about the debate simmering amongst conservatives that this war will escalate and "war mongers" in the GOP and media are pushing Trump into this situation? Stigall also unpacks the bizarre and tragic political assassination in Minnesota. -For more info visit the official website: https://chrisstigall.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisstigallshow/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrisStigallFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/chris.stigall/Listen on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/StigallPodListen on Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/StigallShow -Help protect your wealth with real, physical gold and silver. Texas Bullion Exchange helps everyday Americans diversify with tailored portfolios, IRA rollovers, and expert support every step of the way.
The 50th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Newt Gingrich sits down with Sean Spicer to discuss his new book Trump's Triumph. Newt documents President Trump's greatest comeback in political history, despite a 9 year effort to destroy him. Democrats have become the party of weakness. With a lack of vision and anti-American policies, the only facade they portray is standing up to Trump. President Trump is trying to solve real problems, mostly created by Democrats as seen by the American people. President Trump is showing strong leadership, common sense policy, and wild popularity, will MAGA live on after he is gone? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 50th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Newt Gingrich sits down with Sean Spicer to discuss his new book Trump's Triumph. Newt documents President Trump's greatest comeback in political history, despite a 9 year effort to destroy him. Democrats have become the party of weakness. With a lack of vision and anti-American policies, the only facade they portray is standing up to Trump. President Trump is trying to solve real problems, mostly created by Democrats as seen by the American people. President Trump is showing strong leadership, common sense policy, and wild popularity, will MAGA live on after he is gone? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SEASON 3 EPISODE 136: COUNTDOWN WITH KEITH OLBERMANN A-Block (1:45) SPECIAL COMMENT: Gavin Newsom has reached his "EFF IT" moment - and it might prove to be the moment we began to save the democracy. If you MISSED Newsom’s speech (and trust me, I did, its only failure was its rollout) I am going to play the whole thing at the end of the first segment because it was that good. Eight minutes of escalating but suppressed righteous indignation bordering on rage – eight minutes building towards Eff-It - of which I think I am still the Official Exclusive East Coast Distributor. I think I KNOW my eight-minute suppressed righteous indignation speeches and this was outstanding. Newsom alone has realized that all you have to do is stop playing Trump's version of this game, and introduce him to a NEW version in which the Mike Tyson Law applies - and he will have no chance. And Mike Tyson’s law – is that everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face.” As you listen to the speech, my connoisseur’s advice is to listen to the slow burn and the rapidly decreasing time between each metaphorical shot Newsom takes. It’s not just the FIRST grown-up speech responding to Trump’s evil. It’s a really good one. And it ends with… Trump getting metaphorically punched in the face. But consider the larger context. Newsom’s emergence – this is a stupid analogy but it somehow works – was like a caterpillar emerging as a gigantic butterfly, a butterfly equipped with nukes, a stealth bomber butterfly – and THAT was last Friday with his threat to crash Trump by withholding all of California’s federal taxes, all 692 billion of it – THE economic civil war game-ender I have been advocating out here in the wilderness for a decade. Then he says “wait, I’m not finished yet” and he goes back inside the cocoon for a minute and comes out even LARGER with MORE nukes and now he is THE Resistance, THE Democratic Party, and THE hope to save America. A week ago Gavin Newsom was posting a podcast with quote “Doctor” Phil McGraw, who did a ride along with ICE raiders. June 4: glad-hand interview that utter fraud Phil McGraw AFTER glad-hand interviewing Newt Gingrich, Michael Savage, Charlie Kirk and Steve Bannon. June 6: respond to Trump’s threats to kneecap California by threatening to lead a TAX STRIKE – the most liberal, progressive, in-your-face political protest proposed this century. June 7-8-9: come back and TOP that with calling the bluff of these Halloween Mask bullies like Trump and Tom Homan. June 10: give this speech. So, now the question is: Why haven’t any other Democratic so-called leaders followed Newsom over the top into no-man’s land even though he went first and discovered there are 100 to 200 million Americans just standing there waiting for somebody to lead them against Trump? B-Block (38:22) THE WORST PERSONS IN THE WORLD: Senator Kevin Cramer, who has never held a real job in his life (an entire career as a politician or failed political candidate) doesn't see the need for ANY federal minimum wage. Tulsi Gabbard thinks the "elites" have underground bunkers in which they can survive nuclear war. And Terry Moran got fired for an analytical opinion about Stephen Miller, but Jake Tapper can retweet Jonah Goldberg's opinion retweeting Fox's opinion retweeting Fetterman's opinion about how much the Democrats are hated. Fire. Tapper. Now. C-Block (50:00) IN MEMORY OF MINET GERMAIN OLBERMANN: Tuesday was World Pet Memorial Day and yesterday was the third anniversary of his gotcha day, so please let me tell you about my late rescue Minet. He arrived here a month shy of his 15th birthday with no expectations and very little awareness of the world around him. And then a little dental care and a little attention and the next thing I knew he was literally jumping for joy on the streets of New York. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're back with Part 2 of our conversation with Jane Borden, author of Cults Like Us, where we pick up right where we left off – with the Puritans, of course. Because what's more American than a doomsday cult in denial? In this half, we explore how their legacy of moral perfectionism, isolationism, and a rigid “us vs. them” worldview continues to shape American institutions, politics, and even pop psychology. Jane takes us through the cult wars of the '80s and '90s, the rise of deprogrammers and cult apologists, and the influence of Large Group Awareness Trainings (aka LGATs) like EST and Landmark on today's self-help landscape. We also dive into the concept of normative dissonance, how political architects like Newt Gingrich exploited division for power, and why bridging social gaps might be the antidote to modern-day culty chaos. Along the way, Jane reminds us why humor can be a powerful tool for understanding even the darkest parts of our culture. If you missed Part 1, hit pause and go back. We promise it's worth it! And be sure to check out Cults Like Us and more of Jane's work at janeborden.com. Also… let it be known that: The views and opinions expressed on A Little Bit Culty do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the podcast. Any content provided by our guests, bloggers, sponsors or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, group, club, organization, business individual, anyone or anything. Nobody's mad at you, just don't be a culty fuckwad. **PRE-ORDER Sarah and Nippy's newest book here Check out our lovely sponsors Join ‘A Little Bit Culty' on Patreon Get poppin' fresh ALBC Swag Support the pod and smash this link Cult awareness and recovery resources Watch Sarah's TEDTalk CREDITS: Executive Producers: Sarah Edmondson & Anthony Ames Production Partner: Amphibian.Media Co-Creator: Jess Tardy Writer: Kristen Reiter Associate producers: Amanda Zaremba and Matt Stroud of Amphibian.Media Audio production: Red Caiman Studios Theme Song: “Cultivated” by Jon Bryant co-written with Nygel Asselin
50th Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Newt Gingrich joins me today. Newt's new book Trump's Triumph is a New York Times best seller. Newt documents President Trump's greatest comeback in political history. Despite a 9 year effort to destroy him, President Trump won popular and electoral votes and became the first president to be nonconsecutively re-elected since President Grover Cleveland. Today we unpack the big, beautiful bill and how detrimental it is to get is passed so the agenda President Trump has promised can move forward. Newt's message to Republicans is if you want to stay in the majority, find a way to vote yes. Nearly the entire country shifted red last election cycle and passing the bill so Americans can start to feel and live the effects of it is the best way to grow an even bigger majority in 2026. Democrats on the other hand, have become the party of weakness. With a lack of vision and anti-American policies, the only facade they portray is standing up to Trump. President Trump is trying to solve real problems, mostly created by Democrats as seen by the American people. President Trump is showing strong leadership, common sense policy, and wild popularity, will MAGA live on after he is gone? Featuring: Speaker Newt Gingrich Host | Newt's World https://gingrich360.com/ Get your copy of Newt's NYT best selling book here: https://a.co/d/caJU795 A special thanks to the amazing sponsors of today's show: Delta Rescue Delta Rescue is one the largest no-kill animal sanctuaries. Leo Grillo is on a mission to help all abandoned, malnourished, hurt or suffering animals. He relies solely on contributions from people like you and me. If you want to help Leo to continue his mission of running one of the best care-for-life animal sanctuaries in the country please visit Delta Rescue at: https://deltarescue.org/ Beam For a limited time got 40% of Beam's Dream Powder. Dream Powder with Reishi, Magnesium, L-Theanine, Apigenin and Melatonin to help you fall asleep, stay asleep, and wake up refreshed. Just head to https://shopbeam.com/SPICER for 40% off. ------------------------------------------------------------- 1️⃣ Subscribe and ring the bell for new videos: https://youtube.com/seanmspicer?sub_confirmation=1 2️⃣ Become a part of The Sean Spicer Show community: https://www.seanspicer.com/ 3️⃣ Listen to the full audio show on all platforms: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sean-spicer-show/id1701280578 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/32od2cKHBAjhMBd9XntcUd iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-sean-spicer-show-120471641/ 4️⃣ Stay in touch with Sean on social media: Facebook: https://facebook.com/seanmspicer Twitter: https://twitter.com/seanspicer Instagram: https://instagram.com/seanmspicer/ 5️⃣ Follow The Sean Spicer Show on social media: Facebook: https://facebook.com/seanspicershow Twitter: https://twitter.com/seanspicershow Instagram: https://instagram.com/seanspicershow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today's show features: Dennis Gingrich, Sales & Finance Director at The Niello Company Alex Casebeer, GM/Dealer at Capitol Subaru of Salem, Capitol Nissan of Salem This episode is brought to you by: Nomad Content Studio – The team behind the dealers you actually see online. Nomad works in your dealership to build a brand new pipeline of sales driven by social media content. They're the same team behind names like George Saliba, Benzs & Bowties, and EV Auto—dealers who've built national brands and sold more cars in the process. If you want your dealership to be next, head to trynomad.co and book a call. Interested in advertising with Car Dealership Guy? Drop us a line here: https://cdgpartner.com Interested in being considered as a guest on the podcast? Add your name here: https://bit.ly/3Suismu Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
WMAL GUEST: NEWT GINGRICH (Former Speaker of the House) BOOK: Trump’s Triumph: America’s Greatest Comeback WEBSITE: Gingrich360.com SOCIAL MEDIA: X.com/NewtGingrich Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow Podcasts on Apple, Audible and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @JGunlock, @PatricePinkfile, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: WMAL.com/OConnor-Company Episode: Monday, June 9, 2025 / 7 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the 7 AM hour, Larry O’Connor and Julie Gunlock discussed: WMAL GUEST: JOE DIGENOVA (legal Analyst and former U.S. Attorney, District of Columbia) on the lawlessness in Los Angeles, return of the Maryland man, and latest Supreme Court decisions WMAL GUEST: NEWT GINGRICH (Former Speaker of the House) on the LA protests, Musk-Trump sparring, and Big Beautiful Bill WASHINGTON POST: Inside the Battles that Shattered Trump and Musk’s Alliance Where to find more about WMAL's morning show: Follow Podcasts on Apple, Audible and Spotify Follow WMAL's "O'Connor and Company" on X: @WMALDC, @LarryOConnor, @JGunlock, @PatricePinkfile, and @HeatherHunterDC Facebook: WMALDC and Larry O'Connor Instagram: WMALDC Website: WMAL.com/OConnor-Company Episode: Monday, June 9, 2025 / 7 AM HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this special edition of the "Steve Deace Show," former House Speaker Newt Gingrich joins the program for an extended conversation about the second Trump administration, his view on current foreign policy topics, and why being a citizen is not only not a choice but can also be fun. TODAY'S SPONSORS: BEAM: https://shopbeam.com/products/sleep-powder?discount=steve&variant=40436356710455&selling_plan=787415095&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=sponsorship&utm_campaign=steve and use code STEVE at checkout BIRCH GOLD: Text STEVE to 989898 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, Lisa interviews former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich about Donald Trump’s political legacy, the challenges facing the Democratic Party, and the current state of American politics. Gingrich discusses Trump’s unique connection with everyday Americans, his evolution after surviving an assassination attempt, and his enduring influence on the Republican Party. Purchase Newt's NEW Book HERE Listen to Newt's Podcast HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
[00:10:07] Dr. Mehmet Oz [00:18:25] Clifford May [00:36:50] Newt Gingrich [00:55:12] Jon Reinish [01:13:35] Karl Rove [01:32:00] Liz Claman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, joins Brian to discuss the big, beautiful bill Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this engaging conversation, Donny and former Speaker of the House, Newt Gingrich discuss a range of topics centered around Trump's policies, economic growth, and the current political landscape. They explore the implications of tax cuts for middle-class families, the challenges of the deficit, and the importance of strength in leadership. The discussion also touches on U.S.-Israel relations, the Gaza conflict, and the rise of anti-Semitism. Gingrich emphasizes the need for bipartisanship and offers insights into the future of the Democratic Party. Takeaways The Congressional Budget Office often underestimates tax revenue. Economic growth is crucial for addressing the deficit. Tax cuts can benefit middle-class families if passed. Trump's strength resonates with many Americans. Controversial actions can overshadow positive achievements. The U.S. must take a strong stance against Iran. Hamas must be dealt with decisively to ensure security. Anti-Semitism is a persistent issue that needs addressing. Bipartisanship is essential for effective governance. The Democratic Party faces challenges in appealing to young males. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich calls in to plug his new book Trump's Triumph: America's Greatest Comeback, before he dives into the top news headlines of the day pertaining to President Trump and his White House. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
At the height of leftwing activism in the Sixties, conservatives funded tax-deducible rightwing groups on campuses to counter Black Power, demands for ethnic studies, and the New Left. As historian Lauren Shephard illustrates, such groups like Young Americans for Freedom groomed future Republican leaders and influential conservatives, like Karl Rove and Newt Gingrich, where they learned to spin unpopular politics as popular. Lauren Lassabe Shepherd, Resistance from the Right: Conservatives and the Campus Wars in Modern America University of North Carolina Press, 2023 American Campus Podcast The post The Right on Campus appeared first on KPFA.
America has seen yet another hideous attack by an Islamic radical who never should have been in the country at all. Charlie reacts, and asks why some pro-immigration Americans seem to have a death wish. Former House speaker Newt Gingrich discusses his latest book analyzing Trump's dramatic political comeback. Watch every episode ad-free on members.charliekirk.com! Get new merch at charliekirkstore.com!Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ann Coulter- “Trump Has Really Got to Ignore These Courts No Matter What, whether they are Overruled or not” Your Five Stories of the Week, Newt Gingrich on Judges, Black Crime Statistics. Newt Gingrich Sndortseop1c01lc98c0m35h91u4m81A8i2398m3g4hc151u8p8t ui4r1ch · The Founding Fathers deeply distrusted judges. They thought the lawyer class was dangerous, and if given unbridled power they would undermine and destroy free society. UNSAFE with Ann Coulter The Fifth Year of Our Floyd May 30 2025 Other Episodes Your Five Stories of the Week: Trump Tariffs in the courts Anti-Semitism rises among doctors as (surprise!) more foreign doctors come to America Another member of the Dem Gerontocracy bites the dust The Fifth Year of Our Floyd Veterans seek White Shoe freebies Opening sound: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on the courts and tariffs. Post Black Crime statistics. Canadian Patriot @PPC4Liberty
Newt Gingrich, Former Speaker of the House; Best-Selling Author; Fox News Contributor; INITIATIVE: America's New Majority Project Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Megyn brings you the latest episode of Next Up with Mark Halperin, on JD Vance's dominance, the Dems' weak field, and Newt Gingrich on Trump and the new GOP. Subscribe to Next Up with Mark Halperin:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-up-with-mark-halperin/id1810218232Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2f0n8G4xqUo8aGxbbbtRjHSocial: http://nextuphalperin.com/