“Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work” (Titus 3:1).

This phrase occurs eight times in the Pauline epistles, and it may have three distinct connotations. In the text above, it obviously refers to human rulers. However, an entirely different set is noted in Ephesians 3:10. “To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.”

The latter passage refers to a hierarchy of angels who are faithful to God and intensely concerned with His great plan of salvation for men. However, there is also a demonic hierarchy of rebellious angels: “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” (Ephesians 6:12).

In any case, all are subject to Christ’s control. “For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers” (Colossians 1:16). Although both demonic and human rulers have conspired against Him, He has defeated them all at the cross. “And having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it” (Colossians 2:15). “Which He wrought in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead, and set Him at His own right hand. . . . Far above all principality, and power” (Ephesians 1:20,21). Thus, He is now “the head of all principality and power” (Colossians 2:10).

Consequently, when we are in Christ, we need never fear either man or devil. “For I am persuaded, that neither . . . principalities, nor powers . . . shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38,39). HMM