In today’s passage, Paul is apparently addressing some specific concerns raised by the Colossians. “Do not let anyone judge you” (Colossians 2:16) indicates someone is indeed judging the way they eat and drink or how they celebrate festivals…these are some of the things that have divided churches, created denominational lines and no doubt, created tension in the church since the beginning of Christianity. It’s sad, but true. “The reality, however, is found in Christ” (2:17b) — this is what we should be focused on!
We should not be drawn to false teachers or subject ourselves to some arbitrary rules that “have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body” (2:23). Paul is pointing to specific teachings that affect the church at that time, yet the same is just as relevant today (just as Pastor John Houseman commented earlier). Lord help us to be discerning, to have order and discipline, but to have a clear mind to perceive false teaching and heretical customs. We know the reality is found in Christ, help us to live accordingly!!!
In today’s passage, Paul is apparently addressing some specific concerns raised by the Colossians. “Do not let anyone judge you” (Colossians 2:16) indicates someone is indeed judging the way they eat and drink or how they celebrate festivals…these are some of the things that have divided churches, created denominational lines and no doubt, created tension in the church since the beginning of Christianity. It’s sad, but true. “The reality, however, is found in Christ” (2:17b) — this is what we should be focused on!
We should not be drawn to false teachers or subject ourselves to some arbitrary rules that “have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body” (2:23). Paul is pointing to specific teachings that affect the church at that time, yet the same is just as relevant today (just as Pastor John Houseman commented earlier). Lord help us to be discerning, to have order and discipline, but to have a clear mind to perceive false teaching and heretical customs. We know the reality is found in Christ, help us to live accordingly!!!