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"Having disarmed principalities and powers. He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it." --- Colossians 2:15 Jesus' victory was over the condemnation and curse of sin brought against us as highlighted in the law. Everywhere we turn in the law, specifically the ten commandments, these ordinances tell us we are guilty and deserve death and hell. Jesus came, and by His sinless life being offered for our sinful one, we are freed from the bondage and judgment of sin. He is the captain of our salvation and conqueror over our mortal enemies. The image is of a returning general who returned to Rome to a victorious procession with his enemies chained to his chariot and others in chains while someone held a crown over his head. In doing this, he openly shamed and made a spectacle of them. Jesus was not assassinated secretly or poisoned. He did not die in secret. He was lifted up for the world to see His suffering and anguish as a means of drawing people to Himself whenever and wherever the gospel is preached. The enemies of sin, death, and hopelessness in eternity have been defeated and will be destroyed upon His return. But through Jesus' resurrection, appearance to many followers, and ascension to the right hand of God, He is declared eternal victor, Saviour, and Lord. Openly, He is declared conqueror, and openly, we must share Him with others. Our victorious faith demands it. --- Dan Nelson