“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”
—Colossians 2:15 (NIV)
When we think of Jesus dying on the cross, most of us imagine a single explanation: Jesus took our place and paid the penalty for our sins. And that’s true. But did you know the Bible actually presents several different ways of understanding what Jesus accomplished through His death and resurrection?
These aren’t competing ideas—they’re like different sides of the same beautiful diamond. Each perspective shows us more of God’s grace and love. These are often called “theories of atonement”—and they help us reflect more deeply on just how powerful and complete Jesus’ work on the cross really is.
One of the oldest and most beautiful of these is called Christus Victor, which is Latin for “Christ the Victor.”
According to this view, Jesus’s death wasn’t just about forgiving our sins—it was about defeating our enemies. Sin, death, evil, and the devil had enslaved humanity. We were powerless to break free. But through the cross, Jesus entered into our brokenness, took on the worst that evil could throw at Him, and overcame it all.
Like a warrior who enters enemy territory to rescue captives, Jesus died and rose again to set us free. Colossians 2:15 paints the picture of Jesus as a victorious King, stripping the powers and authorities of their strength and making a public display of their defeat.
This means that the cross isn’t just about what Jesus did for you, but what He did to the enemy. He broke the chains. He won the battle. He stormed the gates of hell and walked out of the tomb alive. And now He invites us to walk in that same victory.
This coming Wednesday night, we’ll be exploring several ways Christians have understood the cross through the centuries—penal substitution, ransom, Christus Victor, moral influence, and more. You’ll leave with a richer understanding of the cross and a deeper appreciation for what Jesus has done.
Until then, take a few minutes today to reflect on this: What battle are you facing right now—and how might Christ’s victory at the cross give you strength and hope today?
Lord Jesus, thank You for not only dying for me but for triumphing over the powers of darkness. Help me walk in the freedom and confidence of Your victory today. Amen.
