Note 28 at Col. 2:17: The word "shadow" means "a faint indication." When used as a verb it means "to represent vaguely or mysteriously" (New A.H. Dict.). Each of the things listed in verse 16 served to represent something that the Messiah would accomplish. Now that Jesus the Messiah has come, the representation isn't necessary. The NIV Bible translates this verse as, "These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality however, is found in Christ."

A shadow is never as important as the person who cast it. Those who cling to the Old Testament shadow are missing the New Testament reality found in Jesus (see note 12 at Rom. 14:14, p. 842).

Note 29 at Col. 2:17: Jesus Christ is the body that cast all the Old Testament shadows. Now that we have Jesus Himself, why would anyone still cling to the shadow?