Thrones Dominions & Powers

Steve Hoese's message from Wednesday, December 3rd 2025

Have we ever stopped to consider that there's an entire unseen realm operating around us—a spiritual hierarchy that influences our nations, cultures, and even our personal lives? This powerful Bible study takes us deep into Colossians 1:16, revealing that Christ created not just the physical world we see, but also invisible spiritual authorities: thrones, dominions, principalities, and powers. These weren't always evil—they were originally designed to govern and maintain God's order. But rebellion changed everything. From the serpent in Genesis 3 to the corruption of nations in Genesis 11, we see how spiritual beings turned against God's purposes. Yet here's the breathtaking truth: Jesus didn't just die for our personal sins—He utterly dismantled the legal claims these powers had over humanity. Colossians 2:15 declares that He 'spoiled principalities and powers' and made a public spectacle of them at the cross. Like a champion boxer delivering the knockout blow, Christ stripped away their authority in one decisive act. But the story doesn't end there. We, as the church, are called to enforce that victory. We're not passive observers but active agents of God's kingdom, pushing back darkness through repentance, declaration, worship, and obedience. When we resist agreements with sin and darkness, we reclaim spiritual territory. This isn't abstract theology—it's the very reason we can stand against oppression, addiction, and cultural corruption. Every time we worship, evangelize, or walk in holiness, we're undermining the enemy's plans and displaying God's manifold wisdom to the spiritual realm.