Scripture Reading: Colossians 2:16–17

Introduction

A. Although the word “shadow” often carries a negative connotation (e.g., “lurking in the shadows,” “the shadow of death”), shadows can sometimes be very welcome (see Job 7:2; Psalms 17:8–9; 57:1; 91:1).

B. The shadows that we find in God’s word are marvelous in that they reveal to us that God has been operating in human affairs all along, even when it seemed that He had forgotten all about us.

Discussion

I. Chasing shadows is a Biblical principle.

A. Paul loved pointing back to these shadows (Colossians 2:16–17; Hebrews 8:3–6; 7:23–28; 9:7; 10:1–4, 11–14).

B. The Old Testament writers also pointed forward to greater things to come (Deuteronomy 18:18; Ezekiel 37:24).

II. What do we know about shadows?

A. Shadows typically don’t last very long (Psalms 144:4; 1 Chronicles 29:15; Ecclesiastes 6:12; Hebrews 10:1).

B. Shadows indicate the presence of light (John 1:7–9).

C. Shadows can sometimes be very helpful to us (2 Corinthians 3:13–4:6; Exodus 33:18–23; 34:5–7

D. The shadows found in the Scriptures help to demonstrate God’s providence (cf. Genesis 14:17–20; Psalms 110:4; Hebrews 7:1–28).

Conclusion

A. While we tend to think of shadows in terms of darkness and obscurity, the shadows found in the Scriptures radiate with the omnipotence and benevolence of God.

B. There is no safer place in this world than the shadow of God’s wing, but it is a haven that you must enter willingly (Matthew 23:37).