What does it mean that Jesus disarmed principalities and powers (Colossians 2:15)?

In Colossians 2:6–15, the apostle Paul reminds believers of their new identity in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that, through Christ’s death and resurrection, believers are united with Christ, forgiven of their sins, and freed from the legalistic requirements of the law. Jesus destroyed the record of charges held against us for our sins, “having nailed it to the cross” (Colossians 2:14, NKJV). Then, Paul states that Jesus “disarmed principalities and powers” and “made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them” (Colossians 2:15, NKJV).

Colossians 2:15 highlights the complete victory of Jesus Christ over dark spiritual forces that oppose God’s purposes and His people. Because Jesus disarmed principalities and powers and triumphed over them on the cross, believers are 100 percent forgiven. Our sin debt is paid in full. Our eternal salvation is complete (Hebrews 7:25). And our victory in Christ is absolute (see Colossians 2:9–10; Romans 8:37–39).

The “principalities and powers” (NKJV) or “rulers and authorities” (ESV) in Colossians 2:15 are spiritual entities in the unseen realm that exert influence over human affairs. These principalities and powers are associated with demonic forces that contradict God. Paul explains, “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12, NLT). These forces are part of Satan’s domain and attempt to deceive, oppress, and enslave humanity.

In some contexts, principalities and powers can refer to human or worldly systems of government and authority that perpetuate injustice, corruption, and rebellion against God. These earthly rulers and authorities may be influenced or controlled by dark spiritual forces, but they are real-life, tangible entities that have a significant impact on society.

The concept of disarmament in this verse is profound. To disarm is to strip away power, authority, or weaponry. Jesus, who is head over every authority and leader (see Colossians 2:10; Ephesians 1:21–22), stripped away all power from the dark forces that once wielded influence over us. He canceled the record of sins that stood against us by metaphorically nailing it to the cross. Jesus’ sacrifice removed any leverage Satan and his minions had over believers. He disarmed principalities and powers, nullifying their ability to accuse or condemn Christians (Romans 8:33–34), which led to their public shame and defeat.

The fact that Jesus disarmed principalities and powers has important implications for everyone who places his or her faith and trust in Him. Here are just a few:

Freedom from Condemnation

Believers no longer live under the oppressive rule of sin, shame, and condemnation (Romans 8:1; John 5:24). Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life” (John 5:24, NLT). The enemy’s accusations have been silenced. We “have been made right in God’s sight by faith, [and] we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us” (Romans 5:1, NLT). We are free to live in the grace and righteousness of Christ (see 2 Corinthians 5:21).

Authority in Christ

Through Christ’s victory, Jesus shares His authority with His followers: “And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:6). In Christ, we are empowered to resist and overcome forces of evil (see Isaiah 54:17; Matthew 16:19; 1 John 4:4; Romans 8:37; 1 Corinthians 10:13; James 4:7).

Purpose in Life

Christ’s victory inspires believers to walk in confidence and hope, knowing that the ultimate battle has already been won. We must remain vigilant as spiritual warfare persists (see Ephesians 6:10–18; Romans 13:12; 1 Peter 5:8–9), but the final, victorious outcome is assured. As sharers in Christ’s triumph, believers are called to extend His victory, living lives that reflect His life, light, and love. Our purpose is to carry on Christ’s mission of reconciliation, helping the lost and broken find their way to God (Acts 1:8; Matthew 28:19–20; 2 Corinthians 5:18–20).

Triumph over Death

Death, often depicted as the ultimate weapon of principalities and powers, was defeated through Christ’s resurrection. Paul explains, “Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled:
For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:54–57, NLT).

Not only are Christians redeemed at the cross, but they are also empowered to live as overcomers in a world still grappling with dark spiritual forces and moral challenges. Through the cross, Christ’s triumph is complete, and His authority is unshakable. Jesus disarmed principalities and powers, giving us freedom and purpose in this life and victory over sin and death.