Colossians 1:13 says, “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son.” This verse speaks of the radical transformation that takes place in the life of a believer when they put their faith in Jesus Christ. Let’s take a closer look at what this verse means.
We are delivered from the domain of darkness
Paul says that God “has delivered us from the domain of darkness.” Before coming to Christ, all human beings are trapped in the domain of darkness. This refers to the evil spiritual realm ruled by Satan that stands in opposition to God’s kingdom (Ephesians 6:12). Those who do not know Christ are under the influence and control of the devil, whether they realize it or not (2 Corinthians 4:4). They are living in spiritual darkness, separated from the light and truth of God.
But when someone puts their faith in Christ, they are instantly delivered from the domain of darkness and transferred into God’s kingdom. The chains of sin, Satan, and spiritual death are broken. Believers immediately pass from death to life (John 5:24), from darkness to light (Ephesians 5:8), from the kingdom of Satan to the kingdom of God (Acts 26:18). This delivering work is accomplished by God through the redemptive work of Christ on the cross.
We are transferred into the kingdom of His beloved Son
Not only are believers delivered from darkness, but they are also transferred into a new spiritual realm – the kingdom of Jesus Christ. A kingdom refers to the authority and rule of a king. So what does it mean that Christians are brought into Christ’s kingdom?
First, it means Christ is now their king. He reigns and rules over their lives. Believers joyfully submit to Him and recognize Him as the sovereign over every area of their lives. Their allegiance shifts from self and Satan to King Jesus. They now desire to live for the honor of their new king.
Secondly, it means they now enjoy the blessings and benefits of Christ’s kingdom. Though His kingdom is not yet fully consummated on earth, believers experience spiritual blessings of His rule such as righteousness, peace, and joy (Romans 14:17). They also enjoy new status and privileges as royal subjects of the king.
Thirdly, believers are now engaged in the mission and purpose of Christ’s kingdom – advancing its reach on earth. Just as ambassadors represent the interests of their king in a foreign land, Christians represent King Jesus and proclaim the good news of His kingdom come near. They live as salt and light to bring glory to the king.
So being transferred into Christ’s kingdom means He is now their highest authority, they enjoy new spiritual life as kingdom citizens, and they take up the mission of making the king known. This radical realignment of allegiance and identity is possible because of what Christ accomplished for them.
He is God’s beloved Son in whom we have redemption
It’s crucial to note that this verse calls Jesus God’s “beloved Son.” This description shows the special, intimate relationship between God the Father and God the Son. Jesus is the eternally beloved of the Father and the object of His delight (Matthew 3:17). The Father confirms Jesus’ identity and authority as His Son, reassuring believers that He is completely trustworthy.
Also, through His death on the cross, Jesus accomplished redemption for those who trust in Him. To redeem means to liberate someone by paying a ransom or price. On the cross, Jesus paid the price necessary to purchase sinners out of Satan’s domain and bring them securely into God’s kingdom. So not only is Jesus the beloved ruler of the kingdom, but He also made entrance into it possible through paying the cost of redemption.
How does this transformation take place?
While this verse describes the radical before and after of salvation, it does not explain exactly how this transfer from darkness to light happens. Other Scriptures fill in those details for us. Here’s the basic series of events:
- Hearing the gospel – Romans 10:17 says faith comes by hearing the message about Christ.
- Repentance – We turn from sin to follow Jesus as Lord. Acts 3:19 calls this repentance.
- Saving faith – We trust in the death and resurrection of Christ for forgiveness of sins. Ephesians 2:8-9.
- Regeneration – God gives us spiritual life. We are born again. Titus 3:5
- Conversion – With new hearts, we freely turn to follow Christ. Acts 15:3.
- Justification – God declares us righteous because of Christ. Romans 5:1
- Adoption – We gain a new identity and position as God’s children. Ephesians 1:5
- Sanctification – The lifelong process of becoming more like Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 4:3
- Perseverance – God sustains our faith relationship until the end. Philippians 1:6
- Glorification – When Christ returns, we receive resurrection bodies. Philippians 3:21
This sequence describes how someone enters Christ’s kingdom and the lifelong benefits that continue flowing from that spiritual union with Jesus. It’s all made possible by amazing grace!
Why does this transfer into Christ’s kingdom matter?
Understanding this transfer from darkness to light is tremendously significant for the Christian life. Here are some reasons why:
- It highlights the supernatural nature of salvation. We are rescued by a mighty deliverance through Christ.
- It brings assurance. Our place in God’s kingdom is secure because of what Jesus did.
- It fuels worship. We are compelled to praise God for His loving redemption.
- It motivates evangelism. Others still live in darkness, so we proclaim Christ.
- It strengthens faith during trials. The realities of our union with Christ endure.
- It inspires holiness. As kingdom citizens, we live differently than the world.
- It brings humility. We did nothing to earn this glorious inheritance.
- It creates unity. We are united with all others transferred into Christ’s kingdom.
- It clarifies purpose. We now live for the mission and glory of the King.
Meditating often on the wonder of salvation will nourish our souls and fuel our passion for the Lord. We have been graciously transferred into His magnificent kingdom!
How should we respond to this reality?
Because believers have been transferred from darkness to light, we respond by:
- Worshipping Jesus with joy and thankfulness for His salvation.
- Cherishing our new identity in Christ.
- Pursuing holiness out of reverence for the King.
- Stewarding well the resources and gifts He gives us.
- Serving others with love to advance His kingdom.
- Giving generously to support kingdom work.
- Declaring the gospel that others may know King Jesus.
- Persevering confidently even in times of trial.
- Waiting expectantly for the return of the King in glory.
This radical shift into Christ’s kingdom changes everything about how we live. As the beloved hymn “Amazing Grace” declares, “My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose went forth and followed thee.” Hallelujah!