In this episode of Exploring the Language of Scripture, Daniel Mikkelsen is joined by Diego Dy Carlos—a researcher in New Testament at Martin Bucer Seminary in Brazil—for a theologically rich conversation on Colossians 1:20 and Paul’s language of peace-making through blood.

Drawing on Roman political context, Paul’s Old Testament categories, and a careful reading of the Greek, Diego explains why Paul’s use of eirēnopoiēō (to make peace) is unique and deliberate—and how it helps clarify the nature of reconciliation in Colossians. Together, they explore how Christ’s death and resurrection disarm the powers, how peace through the cross subverts imperial ideas of domination, and why Paul’s theological precision still matters for our lives today.

Whether you’re interested in biblical languages, Pauline theology, or the cosmic scope of reconciliation, this episode will sharpen your understanding of how Paul uses language to proclaim the supremacy of Christ.

📢 Don’t Miss the Next Episode:
In our next conversation, Daniel sits down with James Morgan to explore how Luke’s Gospel fits with ancient historiography—and what that means for reading Luke with historical integrity and theological depth.

🎯 Chapters:
00:00 - Welcome and Introduction
01:27 - Biblical Studies in Brazil: Meet Diego dy Carlos
03:49 - How Biblical Languages Became a Lifelong Calling
06:36 - Grammar Without the Text? A Common Pitfall
09:33 - Seeing the Author's Hand: Rhetoric and Style in the Originals
11:37 - When Translations Shape Theology: Romans Misread
14:04 - Fulfil or Observe? The Debate over Paul’s Use of Language
16:45 - Why Consistency in Translation Really Matters
19:33 - Dynamite and Dunamis: Exegetical Fallacies in the Pulpit
22:31 - Blood and Peace: Why Colossians is Unique
31:37 - Subjugation and Shalom: Reconciliation Reimagined
36:16 - Christ Over All: Creation, Sin, and New Beginnings
43:22 - Who Are the Powers? Thrones, Rulers, and Cosmic Conflict
50:33 - Real Flesh, Real Cross: Why Paul Emphasises Jesus’ Body
01:04:13 - Be Reconciled: Why This Theology Matters for Your Life
🎵 Music Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat
🔗 https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/aspire

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Podcast Keywords:
biblical languages, New Testament, Old Testament, Christ, bible study, Relationship with God, learn biblical languages, Biblical Theology, Christianity, Covenants, New covenant, old covenant, language acquisition, Biblical Greek, Biblical Hebrew.