Contradiction with Ephesians 6:12
This verse emphasizes that we wrestle against principalities and powers, contradicting Colossians 2:15 which states they have been disarmed.
Ephesians 6:12: For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places]. [flesh...: Gr. blood and flesh] [spiritual...: or, wicked spirits] [high: or, heavenly]
Contradiction with Romans 16:20
This verse suggests that God will crush Satan under our feet in the future, whereas Colossians 2:15 implies it is already accomplished.
Romans 16:20: And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen. [bruise: or, tread]
Contradiction with 1 Peter 5:8
This verse describes the devil as actively seeking whom he may devour, contradicting the victory over rulers and authorities in Colossians 2:15.
1 Peter 5:8: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 4:4
Here, Satan is referred to as the god of this world, which seems at odds with the disarming of powers mentioned in Colossians 2:15.
2 Corinthians 4:4: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
Contradiction with James 4:7
Encourages believers to resist the devil, implying he still poses a threat, whereas Colossians 2:15 describes his defeat.
James 4:7: Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Paradox #1
Some people see a conflict between Colossians 2:15, which speaks about Jesus disarming spiritual powers, and the existence of evil or suffering in the world. They might wonder how evil can still be present if these powers have been defeated. Others reconcile this by viewing it as a spiritual victory rather than an immediate physical change in the world.
Paradox #2
The perceived contradiction or inconsistency with the verse might relate to how it describes the triumph over spiritual powers. Some people might see a conflict with other parts of the Bible that emphasize ongoing spiritual struggles or battles for believers. This could lead to questions about how complete the described victory is and how it fits with the idea of continued spiritual conflicts in a believer's life.
Paradox #3
Colossians 2:15 discusses the triumph of good over evil through spiritual defeat. The moral issue some might see is the idea of celebrating victory through domination or humiliation of others, which can conflict with messages of love and forgiveness elsewhere in the Bible. This could seem inconsistent with the call to love enemies and practice humility.