I first encountered Hendrik Berkhof's work on the Powers in John H. Yoder's book, "The Politics of Jesus." In that book, Yoder devotes an entire chapter to Berkhof's interpretation of the "principalities and powers" in the New Testament and specifically in the writings of Paul. The language of the Powers is scattered throughout Paul's writings and does not seem to be simply an afterthought. Rather, the death of Jesus on the cross in some way has dramatic ramifications not only for humanity but for all things "in heaven" as well (Col 1:20). Precisely through his work on the cross, Christ has "disarmed" the Powers and has shown them for what they really are (Col 2:15). In this short work (less than 80 pages), Berkhof gives his interpretation of these Powers. He contends that while Paul's apocalyptic predecessors--such as the authors of 1 Enoch and 4 Ezra--are infatuated with a detailed and hierarchical angelology, Paul is less so concerned about what these Powers are like; rather, he is much more concerned about what effect the cross had on the Powers and the effect of the Powers on the world and the Church.

Berkhof is a joy to read; this little pamphlet is well worth anyone's time. His vision of the Church and the definitive act of reconciliation and victory of Christ on the cross is beautiful, important, and true to the heart of Paul. For Berkhof, Christ is the meaning of all things--history, the Powers, the Church--and he has begun the work of bringing all things under himself as the Head and the Beginning.