January 4

In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.—Colossians 2:4.

OF whom speaks the Apostle? It will be seen by referring to the preceding verse that he is speaking of Christ. That in Christ, wisdom and knowledge are deposited. More wisdom and knowledge than dwells in the highest angel that worships before the throne. Even "all the treasures" of wisdom and knowledge are in Christ. As the waters are in the channels of the mighty deep, and as the sun is the great source of light, so all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are in Christ. Whatever knowledge or wisdom angels or men possess, it flows from this ocean, it is communicated from this sun. If all wisdom and knowledge are in Christ, it is obvious that there cannot be a ray of light in any creature but what has emanated from him. Hence he said "I am the light of the world." (John 8:12.) The apostle says, that he is both the "POWER and the WISDOM of God." (Cor. i. 24.) The heavenly host also ascribe "wisdom" unto the Lamb that was slain. (Revelation 5:12.) Peter appealed to him and said "Lord thou knowest all things" (John 21:17.) On several occasions he detected the hypocrisy of the pharisees, because he knew their thoughts, "for he needed not that any should testify of man, for he knew what was in man." (John 2:25.) When he wanted tribute money, he knew what fish would yield it,—when he wanted to make his entry into Jerusalem, he knew where the colt was to be found,—when he desired to eat the passover, he knew what person would grant him his guest chamber,—he knew who would betray him,—he knew how Peter would deny him, and the other disciples forsake him and flee. In short, "in him were hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Without Omniscience, he could not rule the world, or govern his Church; without this, he could not judge all hearts at the last day. How consoling to the disciple in temptation, distress or when under calumny or reproach, that Christ knoweth how to succour his people, and will vindicate all his followers at the last day.