19 For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.
Paul was writing to a particular audience, some of whom appear to have been caught up in Gnosticism. Part of Gnosticism was the belief in an elaborate system of gods and semi-gods that separate this sinful world from the ultimate, pure and holy God. This elaborate system of intermediaries was called the Pleroma. This word Pleroma is the same word Paul uses in this verse that is translated "fullness." In order to counter the false notion of multiple layers of gods between us and the pure, holy god, Paul says that the whole system of connections between us and God is found in Christ. Paul says all creative power rests in Christ. He has it all. There is no need for some complicated system in order to bring creation back into right standing with God. Jesus did that on the cross. The Holy God entered this sinful world and restored peace between Himself and this sinful world. Jesus bridged the gap. He made the way. We don't need any intermediaries. We can go directly to Holy God and have fellowship with Him freely. We don't need saints or anyone else to be our go between. We can enter God's presence ourselves. In fact, we are invited to enter through His blood that was shed for us. Enter His presence today, freely and openly. Forgiveness and strength are there to meet your every need.
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