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Colossians
Chapter Two
Colossians 2
Thus we have a double ministry
as well as a double
preeminence of Christ
and a double reconciliation; and each having a similar
relationship the one to the other: Christ
the Head of all things in heaven and
earth
the Head of the assembly; all things in heaven and earth are to be
reconciled
Christians are reconciled; Paul exercises his ministry in the whole
creation under heaven
he is the minister of the assembly. Naturally his
ministry was limited to the earth. In every respect the extent and bearing of
the glory of Christ
and of the ministry
went beyond the limits of Judaism
and were in contrast with the whole system.
The apostle then insists on the second part of his ministry
of which
he had been just speaking; dwelling however particularly on that which met the
need of the Colossians
and developing it
in order to secure them in the
enjoyment of the whole circle of these precious truths. He completed the word
of God by announcing this mystery
which had been hidden from all ages and
generations
but was now manifested to the saints. No display of the ways of
God since the creation had (in the truths on which it was founded
in the
revelation of God-of His power
or of His thoughts
which formed its basis and
gave it its character) contained the mystery contained in the doctrine of the
assembly. It had not been communicated to any of those who formed part of the
system which preceded it
or who were the medium of light to others
as
instrumental in the revelation of the light of God. Angels
men
Israel
the
prophets-all were alike in ignorance of it. The assembly (this body united to
the Son of God become man and glorified) and the calling of the Gentiles into
that unity was hidden from them all.
Now that Christ the Head of the assembly
the Head of the
body
was glorified
the mystery of this body was made known. The apostle here
dwells on one particular side of this subject
which
after the Person of
Christ
forms the centre of all God's ways. This side is Christ in us
especially as Gentiles
the hope of glory. And in this again we see how the
saints are viewed as on earth
though in the power of resurrection. The aspect
here given of the mystery is
Christ in us down here
not union with Him
actually in glory
though inseparable from that. In fact this mystery was in
every way a new thought
a new truth. That which was known was a Messiah who
should be manifested among the Jews
the accomplishment of glory in their
midst; the Gentiles at most having part in it
as subordinate to the people of
God. But according to the doctrine of the assembly
Christ invisibly dwelt in
the midst of the Gentiles
[1] and even in them; and as to the glory He was
only the hope of it. A Christ dwelling in the hearts of men
and of men
formerly rejected and outside the promises
and filling their hearts with joy
and glory in the consciousness of union with Himself-this was the wondrous
mystery prepared of God for the blessing of the Gentiles. It was this Christ
a
Christ such as this
whom Paul preached
warning every man
and teaching every
man according to the full development of the wisdom of God
which wrought
mightily in the apostle by the Spirit
in order that he might present every man
in a spiritual state answering to this revelation of Christ
as being also its
fruit. Not that every man would receive it; but there was no longer any limit.
All distinction between them was blotted out
alike by sin and by grace
and
there was but one thing to do; that is
to seek that every man
by the power of
the word and the Spirit
should reflect Christ and grow up unto the stature of
His fullness as revealed in the doctrine committed to the apostle. He laboured
for this according to the working of Christ in him; for Christ was not only the
object
but the power that wrought to form souls after His own image.
Now this power wrought in the apostle's weakness; in a
human heart
that felt the necessities of men and the difficulties that
occurred by the way-that felt them as a man
although according to God
and was
the fruit of His love. He desired that the Colossians should understand the
conflict he had for them
and for all those who had never seen him
in order
that they might be encouraged and be thoroughly united in love; so that they
might understand
in all the riches of a full assurance
the mystery of God.
The apostle felt that it was this which they needed and
which would be a blessing to them. He knew that union with Christ
realised in
the heart
was a safeguard from the wiles of the enemy
to which the Colossians
were exposed. He knew the unutterable value of this union
and even of its
realisation by faith. He laboured
he wrestled in prayer-for it is indeed a
conflict-in order that the full sense of this union with the glorious Head
might be wrought in their hearts
so that the Christ on high should be in them
by faith. All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge were found in the mystery
of which this was to their souls the centre and the power. They had not to seek
elsewhere. Science
falsely so called
might pretend to furnish them with
heights to which the simplicity of the doctrines of Christ did not reach but in
fact the wisdom of God and the depths of His counsels left these cloudy efforts
of the human mind at an infinite distance. Moreover they were
truth--reality-instead of being but the creatures of imagination inspired by
the enemy.
For this reason the apostle had brought forward these marvelous
revelations of God respecting the double glory of Christ
and with regard to
His Person. He declared them in order that no one should beguile the Colossians
with enticing words. He avails himself of the order that existed among them
and of their faith to guard them against the danger they were in from these
thoughts which might glide unperceived into their minds
while all was yet
going on well
and the consciousness of their faith was not touched. This often
happens. People have faith in Christ
they walk well
they do not perceive that
certain ideas overthrow that faith; they admit them
while still maintaining
the profession of faith together with these ideas; but the force of the truth
and the sense of union with Christ and the simplicity that is in Him are lost.
The enemy has so far attained his end. That which is received is not the
development of Christ
but something outside Him.
Therefore the apostle says
"As ye have received
Christ Jesus the Lord
walk in him; rooted and built up in him
and confirmed
in the faith
even as ye have been taught." When we have received Christ
all the rest is but a development of that which He is
and of the glory which
the counsels of God have connected with His Person. Knowledge
or pretended
knowledge
outside this
does but turn us away from Him
withdraw our hearts
from the influence of His glory
throw us into that which is false
and lead
our souls into connection with the creation apart from God
and without
possessing the key to His purposes. Thus
since man is incapable of fathoming
that which exists
and of explaining it to himself
his efforts to do so cause
him to invent a mass of ideas that have no foundation
and to endeavor to fill
up the void that is found in his knowledge through his ignorance of God by
speculations
in which (because he is at a distance from God) Satan plays the
chief part without man's suspecting it.
Man
as a child of Adam
is not at the centre of the
immense system of God's ways. Out of Christ and without Christ
he does not know
the centre; he speculates
without foundation and without end
only to lose
himself more and more. His knowledge of good and evil and the energy of his
moral faculties
do but lead him astray the more
because he employs them on
higher questions than those which simply relate to physical things; and they
produce in him the need of reconciling apparently inconsistent principles
which cannot be reconciled without Christ. Moreover the tendency of man is
always to make himself
as he is
the centre of everything; and this renders
everything false.
Christians then ought to walk with simplicity in the ways
of the Lord
even as they have received Him; and their progress ought to be in
the knowledge of Christ
the true center and fullness of all things.
When man occupies himself philosophically with all
things
the insufficiency of his own resources always throws him into the hands
of an intellectual leader
and into tradition; and
when religion is the
subject
into traditions which develop the religion of the flesh
and are
suited to its powers and tendencies.
In those days Judaism had the highest pretensions to this
kind of religion
allied itself with human speculations and adopted then
and
even pursued them assiduously; offering at the same time proofs of divine
origin
and a testimony to the unity of the Godhead
which the absence of the
grossness of Pagan mythology and the meeting of human consciousness of the
divine rendered credible. This relative purity tended to remove-for enlightened
minds-that which was disgusting in the Pagan system. The Jewish system had
by
the death of Jesus
lost all pretension to be the true worship of God; and was
therefore suited (by the advantages it offered in the comparative purity of its
dogmas) to be an instrument of Satan in opposing the truth. At all times it was
adapted to the flesh
was founded on the elements of this world
because by its
means
when owned of God
God was proving man in the position man stood in. But
now God was no longer in it; and the Jews
moved by envy
urged the Gentiles to
persecution; and Judaism allied itself to Pagan speculations
in order to
corrupt and sap the foundations of Christianity
and destroy its testimony.
In principle it is always thus. The flesh may appear for
a time to despise tradition
but that which is purely intellectual cannot stand
in the midst of humanity without something religious. It has not the truth nor
the world which belongs to faith
and for an immense majority superstition and
tradition are needed; that is to say
a religion which the flesh can lay hold
of
and which suits the flesh. God by His power may preserve a portion of the
truth
or allow the whole to be corrupted; but in either case true christian
position and the doctrine of the assembly are lost. [2] We may indeed find philosophy apart from the
religion of the flesh
and the latter apart from the former; but inthis case
philosophy is impotent and atheistic
the religion of the flesh narrow
legal
superstitious
and
if it can be so
persecuting.
In our chapter we find philosophy and the emptiness of
human wisdom united with the traditions of men
characteristic as "the
elements of this world
" in opposition to Christ: for we have a heavenly
Christ who is a perfect contrast to the flesh in man living on earth
a Christ
in whom is all wisdom and fullness
and the reality of all that which the law
pretended to give
or which it presented in figure: and who is at the same time
an answer to all our wants. This the apostle develops here
shewing death and
resurrection with Him as the means of participating in it.
And first all the fullness of the Godhead dwells in Him
bodily. Instead of the misty speculations of men and fantastic aeons
we have
the fullness of God bodily
in a real human body
and thus efficaciously for
us
in the Person of Jesus Christ. In the second place we are complete in Him;
we need nothing out of Christ. [3] On the one side
we have
in Him
God
perfectly presented in all His fullness; on the other side
we possess in Him
perfection and completeness before God. We are wanting in nothing as to our
position before God. What a truth! What a position! God
in His perfect
fullness
in Christ as man
we in Him before God
in the perfection of what He
is--in Him who is head of all principality and power
before which man in his
ignorance would incline to bend the knee! We are in Him
in whom the fullness
of the Godhead dwells as to His Person; in Him
who is above all principality
as to His position and His rights as Christ
man exalted on high.
The apostle then enters into some details of application
to demonstrate that the faithful have all in Christ
viewed according to the
position which He has taken without having anything to seek elsewhere here
below.
Circumcision (the divine token of the covenant with the
Jews
and of the putting off the flesh
which was required in order to form part
of God's people) had its reality in Him. By the power of the life which is in
Him
and which is theirs-being made partakers of the efficacy of His
death-Christians account themselves to be dead
and have put off this body of
sin by faith. This is the true circumcision of Christ made without hands.
Circumcision made by hands was but the sign of this putting off the body of the
flesh-the privilege of the Christian in Christ. Having a new life in Christ
he
has efficaciously put off the old man.
We are buried with Christ by baptism (this is its
meaning)
in which also we are risen with Him by faith in this operation of the
power of God whereby He was raised from among the dead. Baptism was the sign
and expression of this; [4] faith in the operation of God which raised
Him
the means by which is effected in us this marvelous resurrection with
Christ into a new state and scene-this happy death
or rather this precious
participation in the death of Him who has accomplished all for us. And when I
say "faith
" it is the power of God's Spirit working in us. But it is
the power of God Himself
as it wrought in Christ
which works in us to give us
the new standing in life. Viewed in connection with our resurrection with
Christ it implies-by the very fact of our receiving it-that we are forgiven
perfectly and for ever. We were under the burden of our sins
and dead in them.
This burden Christ took upon Himself
and died for us
accomplishing what put
away our sins in going down into death. Raised up with Him
inasmuch as
partaking of that life which He possesses as risen from the dead
we have-like
Him and with Him-left all that burden of sin and condemnation behind us with
the death from which we have been delivered. Therefore He says
"Having
forgiven you all trespasses."
Christ
when He arose
left death and the weight of
condemnation under which we were lying
behind Him-we also being raised up with
Him. Naturally God
in thus raising us up from the state in which we were
has
not raised us up to condemn us
or with condemnation attached to this new life
which is Christ Himself. For He had already borne the condemnation
and
satisfied the justice of God
and died for the putting away of sin
before He
communicated this life to us. God brought us out of death and condemnation with
Christ who had borne it for us. But this is connected with another aspect of
this work of grace
spoken of here
and also in Ephesians
and even in John 5 and
2 Corinthians 5. He who is alive in sins is dead in them towards God. If I look
at him as alive in them
death must come in and has come in on the cross. (See
Rom. 6) This side is not brought forward in Ephesians; only death in Romans; in
Colossians death and resurrection in Christ
of which we have spoken. In
Ephesians this is not spoken of at all. We are viewed as dead in sins
dead
towards God
and all good is a new creation according to God's counsels. We are
quickened together with Christ when dead in sins. This also is taken up in
Colossians: only it is not spoken of as a new creation. But in both a new life
is given when we are dead; only Ephesians begins with this in Christ raised and
exalted
and by the same power in us. In Colossians it is introduced as
completing what is taught of the administration of this doctrine of death in
baptism and our resurrection by faith of God's operation in Christ. In
Ephesians grace finds us dead and quickened with Christ. In Colossians it finds
us alive in sins and brings in death and resurrection
and completes this by
quickening with Christ.
All the ordinances likewise
which belonged to the
rudiments of this world and which applied to man in the flesh
and weighed as
an insupportable yoke upon the Jews (and to which they endeavoured to bring
others into subjection)
which put the conscience always under the burden of a
service unaccomplished by man
and a righteousness
unsatisfied in God-these
ordinances were blotted out. In them the Jew had put his signature
so to
speak
to his guiltiness; but the obligation was destroyed and nailed to the
cross of Christ. We receive liberty as well as life and pardon.
This is not all. There was
the strength of
principalities and powers against us-the might of spiritual wickedness. Christ
has vanquished and despoiled them on the cross
having triumphed over them in
it. All that was against us He has put aside
in order to introduce us
entirely delivered from it all
into our new position. It will be seen here
that what the apostle says of the work of Christ does not go beyond that which
He did for our deliverance
in order to set us in the heavenly places. He
speaks (ver. 10) of the rights of Christ
but not as sitting in the heavenly
places
nor as
leading the enemy captive; neither does he speak of us as
sitting in Him in the heavenlies. He has done all that is necessary to bring us
into them; but the Colossians are viewed as on earth though risen
and in
danger at least of losing the sense of the position which was theirs in virtue
of their union with Christ
and were in danger of slipping back into the
elements of the world and of flesh
of the man alive in the flesh
not dead
not risen with Christ; and the apostle seeks to bring them back to it
by
shewing how Christ had accomplished all that was requisite-had taken out of the
way all that prevented their attaining it. But he cannot speak of the position
itself: they were not consciously in it. In the things of God we cannot
comprehend a position without being in it. God may reveal it. God may shew us
the way to it. The apostle does so here with regard to the Person of Christ
which alone could bring them back to it; and at the same time he develops the
efficacy of His work in this respect
in order to set them free from the
shackles that kept them back
and to shew them that all obstacles had been
removed. But in detail he has to apply it to the dangers that beset them rather
than to display its glorious results in heaven.
Jewish ordinances were but shadows
Christ is the substance.
By bringing in angels as objects of homage
and thus putting them between
themselves and Christ
they would separate themselves from the Head of the
body
who was above all principalities. The simplicity of christian faith held
fast the Head
from which the whole body directly drew its nourishment and thus
increased with the increase of God. It looked like humility
thus to bring
themselves into relation with angels
as superior and exalted beings who might
serve as mediators. But there were two faults of immense importance in this
apparent humility. First
it really was thorough pride-this pretension to
penetrate into the secrets of heaven of which they were ignorant. What did they
know of any position held by angels
which would make them the objects of such
homage? It was pretending to mount up into heaven for and by themselves
and to
measure their relations with God's creatures without Christ
and at their own
will to connect themselves with them. Secondly
it was to deny their union with
Christ. One with Him
there could be nothing between Him and them; if there
were anything
then they were dead and twice dead. Besides by this union they
were one with Him who was above the angels. United to Him
they received
as we
have seen
a communication
through all the members of the body
of the
treasures of grace and life which were in the Head. The mutual links between
the members of the body itself were thereby strengthened
and thus the body had
its increase.
Two applications of the doctrine that they are dead with
Christ and risen with Him follow. (Chap. 2:20.) He applies the principle of
death to all the ordinances
and to the asceticism which treated the body as a
thing vile in itself which ought to be rejected; and (chap.3:1) he uses the
resurrection to raise their hearts into a higher sphere and to bring them back
to Christ by looking up; they being dead as regards the old man. [5] To make these instructions more plain by
shewing their connection
we may remark that the apostle points out the double
danger
namely
philosophy
and human tradition
in contrast with Christ.
(Chap. 2:3; see vers. 9-15.) While identifying us with Christ
he speaks of the
bearing of the work of Christ Himself rather thanof this identification. In
verses 16-19 he applies it first (ver. 16) to subjection to ordinances
that
is
to the Jewish side of their danger; and then (ver. 18) to the Gnostic
philosophy
[6] science falsely so called
which linked
itself with Judaism (or to which Judaism linked itself)
reproducing itself
under a new form. From verse 20 the apostle applies our death and resurrection
with Christ to the same points
or to the deliverance of the Colossians by
raising their thoughts on high.
But the Colossians are not the only ones who may have
been in this danger. In the main these principles have been the ruin of the
church at all times. They are those of the mystery of iniquity
[7] which has so much ripened since then
and
produced effects so various
and under such different modifications
on account
of other principles which have also acted
and under the sovereign providence
of God. We shall see the deep
simple
and decisive principle which is involved
in it in the verses that follow.
The verses already quoted
as far as the twentieth
had
judged this whole Judeo-philosophic system from the point of view of Christ's
work
of His resurrection
and of union with Him in His heavenly position.
That which follows judges it after our position. The
preceding verses had demonstrated that the system was false because Christ and
His work were such as is declared in them. The passage we are going to consider
shews that this system is absurd
cannot be applied to us
has no possible
application
because of our position. On the one hand it is a false system
null and void in all its parts
if Christ is true and is in heaven; and
on the
other hand
it is an absurd system in its application to us
if we are
Christians. And for this reason: it is a system which supposes life in this
world
and relationships to be acquired with God
having their foundation in
that life
while it pretends to mortify flesh; and yet it addresses itself to
persons who
for faith
are dead. The apostle says
that we are dead to the
rudiments of this world
to all the principles on which its life acts. Why then
as though we were still living (alive) in it
as though we were still alive in
this world
do we subject ourselves to ordinances which have to do with this
life
and which suppose its existence?-ordinances which apply to things which
perish in the use of them
and which have no connection with that which is
heavenly and eternal. They have indeed a semblance of humility and self-denial
as regards the body
but they have no link with heaven
which is the sphere of
the new life--of all its motives
and all its development; and they do not
recognize the honour of the creature
as a creature come out of the hand of
God
which
as such
has always its place and its honour. They put a man in and
under the flesh
while pretending to deliver us from it
and they separate the
believer from Christ by putting angels between the soul and the heavenly place
and blessing; whereas we are united to Christ
who is above all these powers
and we in Him.
These ordinances had to do with merely corruptible
things-were not connected with the new life
but with man living in his life of
flesh on the earth
to which life the christian is morally dead; and as far as
regarded this life
they did not recognize the body as a creature of God
as it
ought to be recognised.
Thus this system of ordinances had lost Christ
who was
their substance. It was connected with the pride that pretended to penetrate
heaven
in order to put itself in relation with beings whom we do not know in
such a manner as to have any relations with them--pride which in so doing
separated from the Head of the body
Christ
and thus disowned all connection
with the source of life
and with the only true position of the soul before
God. This system falsified equally our position on earth by treating us as though
still alive after the old man
whereas we are dead; and dishonoured the
creature as such
instead of recognizing it as coming from the hand of God.
That which was a danger to Christians in the apostle's
days characterises Christianity at the present time.
The Christian's position was thus set forth
but in its
application thus far rather to the danger of Christians than to their heavenly
privileges. Thus grace has provided us with all we need
using every privilege
using the faith of some
giving warnings and instruction above all price
and
turning the faults of others to account.
[1] I
have already remarked that the Gentiles are especially in view in the Colossians
not the union of Jew and Gentiles in one.
[2]
There were some very beautiful legends
embracing partial truths
in the
Gnostic system; but they had lost God and truth
and reality of conscience
before God.
[3]
These expressions relate to the double character of Christ already set before
us in chapter 1. They shew us what we have in Christ in a positive way as that
which follows applies it to everything here below which would prevent our
enjoying it. In Christ is the fullness of the Godhead
the object of our
delight
in whom we possess all things. We have also in Him a position above
all creation
in the perfection which has placed Christ there. We are complete
in Him who is the Head of all principalities and of all power. As regards the
phraseology
the change of a word
to one not however better in itself
shews
the mind of the apostle. In Him dwelleth all the completeness of the Godhead
bodily; and we are complete in Him.
[4] Some
do not connect "risen" with baptism. If so
I apprehend the passage must
be read thus: "In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made
without hands
in putting off the body of the flesh by the circumcision of
Christ
having been buried with Him in baptism; in whom also ye are risen
together [meaning with Christ] through faith
". Baptism clearly signifies
death
and it is not the baptizing but the coming out of the water which can be
applied to resurrection. The giving of life is in no way the sense of baptism
even as a figure
but leaving the life of Adam by death (the death of Christ)
and entrance through that gate into a wholly new place and position.
[5]
These applications flow from chapter 2:11
12. It is to be remarked that Romans
from chapter 5:12 treats of death to sin
in which man (as child of Adam) was
alive. In Ephesians man is reckoned as dead in sins as towards God. Colossians
takes up both: chapter 2:11
12 follows them out
adding resurrection with
Christ. Verse 18 follows Ephesians doctrine. Chapters 2:20
3:1
follow on
chapter 2:11
12. and we have the putting off of the old and putting on of the
new man
[6]
Although this word has the appearance of learning and of not being scriptural
this is not the case. Science
falsely so called
of which the apostle speaks
elsewhere
is in Greek "gnosis"
whence this presumptuous and
corrupting philosophy was called "Gnosticism
" and its votaries
" Gnostics." It plays an immense part in the history of the church
with which I have nothing to do here. But its principles are frequently formed
in the New Testament
brought forward by the apostles in order to combat them.
The Jews had largely fallen into the notion of a mediatorial work of angels
though not in the form exactly of Gnostic philosophy.
[7] This
was working in the apostles' days; Paul withstood it in the energy of the Holy
Ghost. After his departure that power was gone. The historical church never had
the two great fundamental principles of Christianity
perfection in Christ
("by one offering he hath perfected for ever ")
and the presence and
leading power of the Holy Ghost down here. These were supplanted by sacraments
and the clergy.
── John Darby《Synopsis of Colossians》
Colossians 2
Chapter Contents
The apostle expresses his love to
and joy in believers.
(1-7) He cautions against the errors of heathen philosophy; also against Jewish
traditions
and rites which had been fulfilled in Christ. (8-17) Against
worshipping angels; and against legal ordinances. (18-23)
Commentary on Colossians 2:1-7
(Read Colossians 2:1-7)
The soul prospers when we have clear knowledge of the
truth as it is in Jesus. When we not only believe with the heart
but are
ready
when called
to make confession with the mouth. Knowledge and faith make
a soul rich. The stronger our faith
and the warmer our love
the more will our
comfort be. The treasures of wisdom are hid
not from us
but for us
in
Christ. These were hid from proud unbelievers
but displayed in the person and
redemption of Christ. See the danger of enticing words; how many are ruined by
the false disguises and fair appearances of evil principles and wicked
practices! Be aware and afraid of those who would entice to any evil; for they
aim to spoil you. All Christians have
in profession at least
received Jesus
Christ the Lord
consented to him
and taken him for theirs. We cannot be built
up in Christ
or grow in him
unless we are first rooted in him
or founded
upon him. Being established in the faith
we must abound therein
and improve in
it more and more. God justly withdraws this benefit from those who do not
receive it with thanksgiving; and gratitude for his mercies is justly required
by God.
Commentary on Colossians 2:8-17
(Read Colossians 2:8-17)
There is a philosophy which rightly exercises our
reasonable faculties; a study of the works of God
which leads us to the
knowledge of God
and confirms our faith in him. But there is a philosophy
which is vain and deceitful; and while it pleases men's fancies
hinders their
faith: such are curious speculations about things above us
or no concern to
us. Those who walk in the way of the world
are turned from following Christ.
We have in Him the substance of all the shadows of the ceremonial law. All the
defects of it are made up in the gospel of Christ
by his complete sacrifice
for sin
and by the revelation of the will of God. To be complete
is to be
furnished with all things necessary for salvation. By this one word
"complete
" is shown that we have in Christ whatever is required.
"In him
" not when we look to Christ
as though he were distant from
us
but we are in him
when
by the power of the Spirit
we have faith wrought
in our hearts by the Spirit
and we are united to our Head. The circumcision of
the heart
the crucifixion of the flesh
the death and burial to sin and to the
world
and the resurrection to newness of life
set forth in baptism
and by
faith wrought in our hearts
prove that our sins are forgiven
and that we are
fully delivered from the curse of the law. Through Christ
we
who were dead in
sins
are quickened. Christ's death was the death of our sins; Christ's
resurrection is the quickening of our souls. The law of ordinances
which was a
yoke to the Jews
and a partition-wall to the Gentiles
the Lord Jesus took out
of the way. When the substance was come
the shadows fled. Since every mortal
man is
through the hand-writing of the law
guilty of death
how very dreadful
is the condition of the ungodly and unholy
who trample under foot that blood
of the Son of God
whereby alone this deadly hand-writing can be blotted out!
Let not any be troubled about bigoted judgments which related to meats
or the
Jewish solemnities. The setting apart a portion of our time for the worship and
service of God
is a moral and unchangeable duty
but had no necessary
dependence upon the seventh day of the week
the sabbath of the Jews. The first
day of the week
or the Lord's day
is the time kept holy by Christians
in
remembrance of Christ's resurrection. All the Jewish rites were shadows of
gospel blessings.
Commentary on Colossians 2:18-23
(Read Colossians 2:18-23)
It looked like humility to apply to angels
as if men
were conscious of their unworthiness to speak directly to God. But it is not
warrantable; it is taking that honour which is due to Christ only
and giving
it to a creature. There really was pride in this seeming humility. Those who
worship angels
disclaim Christ
who is the only Mediator between God and man.
It is an insult to Christ
who is the Head of the church
to use any
intercessors but him. When men let go their hold of Christ
they catch at what
will stand them in no stead. The body of Christ is a growing body. And true
believers cannot live in the fashions of the world. True wisdom is
to keep
close to the appointments of the gospel; in entire subjection to Christ
who is
the only Head of his church. Self-imposed sufferings and fastings
might have a
show of uncommon spirituality and willingness for suffering
but this was not
"in any honour" to God. The whole tended
in a wrong manner
to
satisfy the carnal mind
by gratifying self-will
self-wisdom
self-righteousness
and contempt of others. The things being such as carry not with them so much as
the show of wisdom; or so faint a show that they do the soul no good
and
provide not for the satisfying of the flesh. What the Lord has left
indifferent
let us regard as such
and leave others to the like freedom; and
remembering the passing nature of earthly things
let us seek to glorify God in
the use of them.
── Matthew Henry《Concise Commentary on Colossians》
Colossians 2
Verse 1
[1] For
I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you
and for them at
Laodicea
and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;
How great a conflict — Of care
desire
prayer.
As many as have not seen my face — Therefore
in writing to the Colossians
he refrains from those familiar
appellations
"Brethren
" "Beloved."
Verse 2
[2] That their hearts might be comforted
being knit together in love
and
unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding
to the acknowledgement
of the mystery of God
and of the Father
and of Christ;
Unto all riches of the full assurance of
understanding
unto the acknowledgment of the mystery of God — That is
unto the fullest and clearest understanding and knowledge of
the gospel.
Verse 6
[6] As
ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord
so walk ye in him:
So walk in him — In
the same faith
love
holiness.
Verse 7
[7]
Rooted and built up in him
and stablished in the faith
as ye have been
taught
abounding therein with thanksgiving.
Rooted in him — As
the vine.
Built — On
the sure foundation.
Verse 8
[8] Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit
after
the tradition of men
after the rudiments of the world
and not after Christ.
Through philosophy and empty deceit — That is
through the empty deceit of philosophy blended with
Christianity. This the apostle condemns
1. Because it was empty and deceitful
promising happiness
but giving none. 2. Because it was grounded
not on solid
reason
but the traditions of men
Zeno
Epicurus
and the rest. And
3.
Because it was so shallow and superficial
not advancing beyond the knowledge
of sensible things; no
not beyond the first rudiments of them. 9
For in him
dwelleth - Inhabiteth
continually abideth
all the fulness of the Godhead.
Believers are "filled with all the fulness of God
" Ephesians 3:19. But in Christ dwelleth all the
fulness of the Godhead; the most full Godhead; not only divine powers
but
divine nature
Colossians 1:19.
Bodily —
Personally
really
substantially. The very substance of God
if one might so
speak
dwells in Christ in the most full sense.
Verse 10
[10] And
ye are complete in him
which is the head of all principality and power:
And ye —
Who believe.
Are filled with him — John 1:16. Christ is filled with God
and ye are
filled with Christ. And ye are filled by him. The fulness of Christ overflows
his church
Psalms 133:3. He is originally full. We are filled
by him with wisdom and holiness.
Who is the head of all principality and power — Of angels as well as men Not from angels therefore
but from their head
are we to ask whatever we stand in need of.
Verse 11
[11] In
whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands
in
putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:
By whom also ye have been circumcised — Ye have received the spiritual blessings typified of old by
circumcision.
With a circumcision not performed with hands — By an inward
spiritual operation. In putting off
not a little skin
but the whole body of the sins of the flesh - All the sins of your evil nature.
By the circumcision of Christ — By that spiritual circumcision which Christ works in your heart.
Verse 12
[12]
Buried with him in baptism
wherein also ye are risen with him through the
faith of the operation of God
who hath raised him from the dead.
Which he wrought in you
when ye were as it
were buried with him in baptism - The ancient manner of baptizing by immersion
is as manifestly alluded to here
as the other manner of baptizing by
sprinkling or pouring of water is
Hebrews 10:22. But no stress is laid on the age of
the baptized
or the manner of performing it
in one or the other; but only on
our being risen with Christ
through the powerful operation of God in the soul;
which we cannot but know assuredly
if it really is so: and if we do not
experience this
our baptism has not answered the end of its institution.
By which ye are also risen with him — From the death of sin to the life of holiness. It does not appear
that
in all this St. Paul speaks of justification at all
but of sanctification
altogether.
Verse 13
[13] And
you
being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh
hath he
quickened together with him
having forgiven you all trespasses;
And you who were dead — Doubly dead to God
not only wallowing in trespasses
outward sins
but
also in the uncircumcision of your flesh - A beautiful expression for original
sin
the inbred corruption of your nature
your uncircumcised heart and
affections.
Hath he —
God the Father.
Quickened together with him — Making you partakers of the power of his resurrection. It is evident the
apostle thus far speaks
not of justification
but of sanctification only.
Verse 14
[14]
Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us
which was
contrary to us
and took it out of the way
nailing it to his cross;
Having blotted out — in
consequence of his gracious decrees
that Christ should come into the world to
save sinners
and that whosoever believeth on him should have everlasting life.
The handwriting against us — Where a debt is contracted
it is usually testified by some handwriting;
and when the debt is forgiven
the handwriting is destroyed
either by blotting
it out
by taking it away
or by tearing it. The apostle expresses in all these
three ways
God's destroying the handwriting which was contrary to us
or at
enmity with us. This was not properly our sins themselves
(they were the
debt
) but their guilt and cry before God.
Verse 15
[15] And
having spoiled principalities and powers
he made a shew of them openly
triumphing over them in it.
And having spoiled the principalities and
powers — The evil angels
of their usurped
dominion.
He — God the Father.
Exposed them openly —
Before all the hosts of hell and heaven.
Triumphing over them in or by him — By Christ. Thus the paragraph begins with Christ
goes on with him
and
ends with him.
Verse 16
[16] Let
no man therefore judge you in meat
or in drink
or in respect of an holyday
or of the new moon
or of the sabbath days:
Therefore —
Seeing these things are so.
Let none judge you —
That is
regard none who judge you.
In meat or drink —
For not observing the ceremonial law in these or any other particulars. Or in
respect of a yearly feast
the new moon
or the weekly Jewish sabbaths.
Verse 17
[17]
Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.
Which are but a lifeless shadow; but the
body
the substance
is of Christ.
Verse 18
[18] Let
no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of
angels
intruding into those things which he hath not seen
vainly puffed up by
his fleshly mind
Out of pretended humility
they worshipped
angels
as not daring to apply immediately to God. Yet this really sprung from
their being puffed up: (the constant forerunner of a fall
Proverbs 16:18) so far was it from being an
instance of true humility.
Verse 19
[19] And
not holding the Head
from which all the body by joints and bands having
nourishment ministered
and knit together
increaseth with the increase of God.
And not holding the head — He does not hold Christ
who does not trust in him alone. All the
members are nourished by faith
and knit together by love and mutual sympathy.
Verse 20
[20]
Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world
why
as
though living in the world
are ye subject to ordinances
Therefore —
The inference begun
Colossians 2:16; is continued. A new inference
follows
Colossians 3:1.
If ye are dead with Christ from the rudiments
of the world — That is
If ye are dead with Christ
and
so freed from them
why receive ye ordinances - Which Christ hath not enjoined
from which he hath made you free.
Verse 21
[21]
(Touch not; taste not; handle not;
Touch not — An
unclean thing.
Taste not —
Any forbidden meat.
Handle not —
Any consecrated vessel.
Verse 22
[22]
Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines
of men?
Perish in the using —
Have no farther use
no influence on the mind.
Verse 23
[23]
Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship
and humility
and
neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh.
Not sparing the body — Denying it many gratifications
and putting it to many inconveniences.
Yet they are not of any real value before God
nor do they
upon the whole
mortify
but satisfy
the flesh. They indulge our corrupt nature
our
self-will
pride
and desire of being distinguished from others.
── John Wesley《Explanatory Notes on Colossians》
Chapter 2. The Fullness of Christ
Buried with Him
Raised with Him
I. The Mystery
of God Is Christ
II.
Fine-Sounding Heresies
III. Connected
with the Head
── Chih-Hsin Chang《An Outline of The New Testament》
Chapter Two General Review
OBJECTIVES IN STUDYING THIS CHAPTER
1) To see the relation between understanding the "mystery of God" and having a strong assurance of our salvation 2) To appreciate how baptism serves as our spiritual circumcision
and that it is a work of God which is performed
not a work of man 3) To understand how Christ brought an end to the Old Law by His death on the cross SUMMARY
Paul reveals his great concern for those at Colosse and others he hasnot seen
expressing his desire that their hearts be knit together inlove
and that they may have the assurance that comes from anunderstanding of the mystery of God as revealed through Christ. Herejoices in their good order and steadfastness
and encourages them tobe firmly established in Christ
abounding in thanksgiving (1-7). The word "Beware" in verse eight summarizes the rest of the chapter
inwhich Paul warns them of the dangers of "The Colossian Heresy". These dangers include being cheated through philosophy and vain deceit
and defrauded of their reward by those who appeal to false humility
the worship of angels
false visions
and strict regulations according to the commandments and doctrines of men which really have no value against the indulgence of the flesh. In Christ they are made complete
having undergone a circumcision not made with hands
in which God madethem alive together with Christ. Since Christ has also nailed to thecross the "handwriting of requirements" that was against them and takenit out of the way
none can judge them regarding religious observancesthat were only a shadow pointing to the true substance of Christ(8-23). OUTLINE
I. PAUL'S SOLICITUDE (1-7)
A. HIS GREAT CONCERN FOR THEM (1-3) 1. He has a great conflict for those... a. In Colosse and Laodicea 1a ) b. Who have not seen his face in the flesh (1b) 2. His desire is that... a. Their hearts be encouraged
knit together in love (2a ) b. They attain to all the riches of: 1) The full assurance of understanding (2b) 2) The knowledge of the mystery of God (2c ) a) Both of the Father and of Christ (2d) b) In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (3) B. REASONS FOR THIS CONCERN (4-5) 1. Lest anyone deceive them with persuasive words (4) 2. Though absent in the flesh
he is present with them in spirit (5a ) 3. He rejoices to see... a. Their good order (5b) b. The steadfastness of their faith (5c ) C. EXHORTATIONS TO BE FIRMLY ESTABLISHED IN CHRIST (6-7) 1. As they have received Christ
so they should walk in Him (6) a. Rooted and built up in Him (7a ) b. Established in the faith (7b) -- As they were taught (7c ) 2. Abounding with thanksgiving (7d) II. WARNINGS AGAINST "THE COLOSSIAN HERESY" (8-23)
A. WARNING AGAINST PHILOSOPHY (8-10) 1. Beware of being cheated by philosophy and empty deceit (8a ) a. According to the traditions of men (8b) b. According to the basic principles of the world (8c ) -- And not according to Christ (8d) 2. In Christ dwells the fullness of God
and you are complete in Him (9-10) a. All the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily in Christ (9) b. You are complete in Him
who is head over all principality and power (10) B. WARNING AGAINST JUDAISTIC CEREMONIALISM (11-17) 1. In Christ you have a circumcision made without hands (11-12) a. A putting off of the body of the sins of the flesh (11) b. Having been buried with Christ in baptism (12) 1) In which you were also raised with Him (12a ) 2) Through faith in the working of God
who raised Jesus from the dead (12b) 2. You are made alive in Christ
and the handwriting of requirements that was against us has been taken away at the cross (13-15) a. Dead in sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh
God has made you alive (13a ) b. He has forgiven you all trespasses (13b) c. He has wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us (14) 1) That which was contrary to us (14a ) 2) He has taken it out of the way
having nailed it to the cross (14b) d. He has disarmed principalities and powers (15) 1) Having made a public spectacle of them (15a ) 2) Triumphing over them in it (15b) 3. Therefore don't let anyone judge you in regards to food
festivals
or sabbath days (16) a. They are only a shadow of things to come (17a ) b. The substance is of Christ (17b) C. WARNING AGAINST ANGEL WORSHIP (18-19) 1. Don't let anyone defraud you of your reward (18a ) a. By taking delight in false humility and worship of angels (18b) b. By intruding into things not seen
vainly puffed by fleshly minds (18c ) 2. Such people do not hold fast to Christ as the Head (19a ) a. From whom all the body grows (19b) b. Nourished and knit together by various elements
with increase from God (19c ) D. WARNING AGAINST ASCETICISM (2:20-23) 1. There is no need to submit to human ordinances (2:20-22) a. For you have died with Christ from basic principles of the world (20a ) b. Therefore do not subject yourselves to ascetic regulations (20b) 1) Such as "Do not touch
do not taste
do not handle" (21) 2) They only concern things which perish with the using (22a ) 3) Which are according to commandments and doctrines of men (23) 2. Such practices are of no value (23) a. They may have an appearance of wisdom in their... 1) Self-imposed religion (23a ) 2) False humility (23b) 3) Neglect of the body (23c ) b. But they are no value against the indulgence of the flesh (23d) REVIEW QUESTIONS FOR THE CHAPTER
1) What are the main points of this chapter?
- Paul's solicitude (1-7) - Warnings against the "Colossian Heresy" (8-23) 2) What was Paul's strong desire for those he had not seen? (1-2)
- That their hearts may be encouraged
knit together in love - That they may be richly blessed by the assurance that comes from an understanding and knowledge of the mystery of God 3) What is "hidden" in Christ? (3)
- All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge 4) What had Paul seen in the Colossians that caused him to rejoice? (5)
- Their good order and steadfastness of faith in Christ 5) How were the Colossians to walk in Christ? (6-7)
- Rooted and built up in Him - Established in the faith - Abounding with thanksgiving 6) What three things might be used to "cheat" us? (8)
- Philosophy and empty deceit - Tradition of men - Basic principles of the world 7) What is said about Jesus in relation to the Godhead? (9)
- In Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily 8) What is our condition in Christ? (10)
- We are complete in Him 9) What sort of "circumcision" have we had in Christ? (11)
- One made without hands - A putting off the body of the sins of the flesh 10) What takes place in baptism? Who is the one at work in baptism?(12-13)
- We are buried with Christ
raised with Christ
made alive together with Christ - God
who raised Jesus from the dead 11) What did Christ take out of the way
having nailed it to the cross?(14)
- The "handwriting of requirements" 12) In what things should we not let others judge us? (16-17)
- In food or drink - Regarding religious festivals
a new moon or sabbaths 13) In what ways might people seek to defraud us? (18)
- Through false humility
worship of angels
appeals to things not really seen 14) What sort of "basic principles of the world" might others try toregulate upon us? (21)
- "Do not touch
do not taste
do not handle" 15) What is the truth about such traditions of men? (22-23)
- They have an appearance of wisdom
but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh Spiritual Maturity In Christ (2:1-8)
INTRODUCTION
1. In Co 1:28-29
we saw that Paul's primary goal in his labors was to "present every man perfect in Christ Jesus." That is
that they be "spiritually mature in Christ." 2. This being the case
we are not surprised to find Paul now writing to the Colossians of: a. His great concern for them - Co 2:1-3 b. The reason for this concern - Co 2:4-5 c. Some exhortations in light of his concern - Co 2:6-8 3. From these eight verses
there are a couple of things we can glean concerning the subject of "Spiritual Maturity In Christ" [First
from verses 1-5 we can take note of several...] I. INDICATIONS OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY (1-5)
A. A DEEP CONCERN FOR OUR BRETHREN IN CHRIST (1) 1. Remember that Paul is an example of spiritual maturity and thus worthy of our emulation - 1 Co 11:1 2. We see that he had a concern for his brethren (notice 2 Co 11:28-29 also) even for those he personally had not seen!
3. Epaphras likewise demonstrated this "mark" of maturity - Co 4:12-13
4. Do we have such concern for our brethren? B. A HEART THAT IS ENCOURAGED (2) 1. The KJV uses the word "comforted" 2. It is the Will of God that we serve Him with hearts that are full of comfort and encouragement a. Such was the concern of Jesus - Lk 21:34; Jn 14:1
27 b. Such was the frequent prayer of Paul - 2 Th 2:16-17 3. A "troubled
anxious heart" is not the mark of a mature Christian! 4. Consider the example of Paul in facing impending death - 2 Ti4:6-8 17-18
C. A HEART KNIT TOGETHER IN LOVE WITH OTHER CHRISTIANS (2) 1. I.e.
a love similar to that experienced by David and Jonathan - 1 Sa 18:1 2. The brethren at Colosse were well on their way in this regard - Co 1:4 3. How about us? Are we developing hearts "knit together in love"? D. A FULL ASSURANCE OF UNDERSTANDING (2) 1. Similar to having hearts that are encouraged
we need to have a strong assurance concerning ourselves and our salvation! 2. Of course
this assurance comes as we increase our "understanding" concerning the basis of our salvation 3. Indeed
the Word of God was so written to increase that understanding
and provide the assurance of our salvation - 1 Jn 5:13; 3:19; note also Ro 15:4 4. As one matures in Christ
this "assurance" will increase
and it is indeed one of the "riches" we have in Christ! E. A KNOWLEDGE OF THE MYSTERY OF GOD (2) 1. I.e.
an understanding of the gospel
which once was hidden
but has now been revealed - cf. Ep 3:3-6; Ro 16:25-26 2. Thus
a good knowledge of the gospel of Christ is essential to maturity in Christ 3. Are we increasing in this knowledge? F. GOOD ORDER AND STEADFASTNESS OF FAITH (5) 1. The word "order"... a. From taxis {tax'-is}
a military term
suggestive of men marching in proper order and precision
as in a drilling exercise b. This suggests that a mature Christian is one whose walk as a disciple is in proper line with what is expected 2. The word "steadfastness" is a word which goes right along with this idea of marching in a straight line 3. What is our "life of faith" like? a. Are we progressing in order
steadfast in our progress? b. Or are we wavering constantly? [These are but a few indications of spiritual maturity. If they are found in our lives
it is a good sign that progress is being made! From verses 6-8
we can also learn of some...] II. STEPS TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY (6-8)
A. RECEIVE CHRIST AS "LORD" (6) 1. This the Colossians had done 2. Today
many seem to want Jesus just as a "Savior
" but not as "Lord" 3. That is
they profess to want Him as "their personal Savior
" but then do not obey Him in what He commands them 4. Yet God has made Him both! - cf. Ac 2:36 5. Until we enthrone Christ as Lord in our lives
we cannot hope to become "perfect" (complete
mature) in Christ 6. Again
Paul provides a good example - e.g.
Ga 2:20 B. WALK IN CHRIST (6-7) 1. Having received Christ as Lord
we must now "walk" (or live) in Him 2. Verse 7 explains what it means to "walk in Christ" a. "rooted" - Christ must be the FOUNDATION and SOURCE OF NUTRITION in our lives (like tree depends upon its roots) b. "built up in Him" - allowing ourselves to become the kind of building He would have us to be c. "established in the faith" - well taught and grounded in the teachings of Christ
and living by them d. "abounding in it with thanksgiving" - ever overflowing with an attitude of gratitude C. BEWARE... (8) 1. To grow spiritually
we must beware of dangers which would hinder our spiritual growth 2. Otherwise
in our zeal to grow we can easily be misled by false doctrines which promise an easy route to spiritual maturity
but do not deliver on that promise! 3. Thus the need for "negative preaching" as the occasion may call for it CONCLUSION
1. Our next lesson will look at some of those false doctrines those at Colosse were facing which promised much
but gave nothing of true value 2. For the moment
let's close by asking two questions: a. Why should we even be concerned with growing in spiritual maturity in Christ? 1) Because in Him "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" - Co 2:3 2) Because He has warned of what will occur if we do not mature and "bear fruit" - Jn 15:1-2 b. How does one initially receive Christ as Lord? 1) By doing what He says
i.e.
the Father's will - Lk 6:46; Mt7:21
2) This includes the command to repent and be baptized
for in so doing one receives the remission of sins as they also "put on Christ" (i.e.
"receive Christ") - Ac 2:36-38; Ga 3:26-27
Believer Beware! (2:9-23)
INTRODUCTION
1. It was Paul's desire that his brethren be "perfect (complete) in Christ" - Co 1:28; 2:1-3 2. But there were influences at Colosse which endangered their salvation
against which Paul warns in Co 2:8-23 3. As we consider what those threats were
we see similar threats today as well! 4. In other words
subtle (and some not so subtle) influences which may promise us much
but can easily lead us away from Christ! [For example
we notice from verses 8-10 that at Colosse there was thedanger of...] I. PHILOSOPHIES AND TRADITIONS OF MEN (8-10)
A. THE DANGER OF MAN-MADE PHILOSOPHY AND TRADITION... 1. They "cheat" you a. They don't deliver what they may promise b. They can even cheat you of your salvation! 1) By rendering our worship and service to God as "vain" 2) As Jesus warned in Mt 15:9 2. This they do through "empty deceit" a. It is not evident (otherwise
none would accept it) b. But like many of the workings of Satan
it is through "deception" B. WE ARE FACED WITH SIMILAR INFLUENCES TODAY... 1. The "philosophies" of: a. Atheism b. Evolution c. Humanism 2. The "traditions of men
" found rampant in: a. Protestant denominations b. Catholicism (both "Roman" and "Orthodox") c. Various cults 3. Though these "philosophies" and "traditions of men" may possess a lot of truth
it is the error in them that can lead one away from the pure and simple doctrine of Jesus Christ! C. WE NEED TO KEEP IN MIND... 1. In "Jesus Christ" are found ALL the treasures of wisdom and knowledge - Co 2:3 2. In "Jesus Christ" is to be found the FULLNESS of the Godhead bodily - Co 2:9 3. In "Jesus Christ" we are COMPLETE - Co 2:10 4. As Peter wrote in his second epistle: "Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord
as His divine power has given to us ALL things that pertain to life and godliness
through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue
" - 2 Pe 1:2-3 [So "Believer
Beware!" when anyone suggests that we need thephilosophies or traditions of men in addition to or instead of JesusChrist! In verses 11-17
Paul deals with what was a real problem in the firstcentury church...] II. JUDAISTIC CEREMONIALISM (11-17)
A. THE PROBLEM IN THE FIRST CENTURY CHURCH... 1. Many Jewish Christians felt it necessary for Gentile Christians to be circumcised and keep the Law of Moses in ADDITION to following Christ - cf. Ac 15:1-5 2. The early church had to constantly deal with this problem a. Which they did at Jerusalem (where the problem originated) - Ac 15:6-27 b. Which Paul did in writing Romans
Galatians
Ephesians
and Colossians 3. Here in Co 2:11-17
Paul deals with the problem by pointing out: a. Through baptism into Christ
we experience the "true circumcision"
which is a cutting away of the sins of the flesh - Co 2:11-13 b. By His death on the cross
Jesus has taken the Old Law out of the way - Co 2:14-15 (cf. Ep 2:14-16) c. Therefore
we are to let no one try to judge (condemn) us in matters of the Old Law - Co 2:16-17 B. TODAY
THERE ARE MANY WHO STILL TRY TO BIND THE OLD LAW UPON CHRISTIANS...
1. Various denominations with their Sabbaths and food regulations 2. Other religions with their separate priesthood and many other practices
based upon the Old Testament
and not the New! C. AS THOSE IN CHRIST... 1. We have died to the Law and Jewish ceremonialism (this especially pertains to Jewish Christians) - Ro 7:1-6 2. We have been set free
and need to beware of becoming "entangled again with a yoke of bondage." - Ga 5:1 3. If we seek justification by our observance of things found in the Old Law
we are fallen from grace! - Ga 5:2-4 [So "Believer
Beware!" when people try to impose things upon you whichare based upon the Law of Moses. Remember
"you are complete in HIM." In verses 18-19
we see there was still another danger at Colosse...] III. THE WORSHIP OF ANGELS (18-19)
A. WHY WOULD PEOPLE WORSHIP ANGELS? 1. Perhaps because they felt angels were needed as "intercessors" 2. Perhaps with "a sense of humility"
they felt they could not go to God (or even Jesus) directly B. THE PROBLEM WITH ANGEL WORSHIP... 1. It is actually the result of a "false humility" and based upon one's "vain imagination" - Co 2:18 (cf. He 4:14-16
where we learn we can "come boldly to the throne of grace") 2. It actually diverts one away from Christ
the rightful "Head of the body" - Co 2:19 a. For this reason
angels refused any semblance of worship - Re 22:8-9 b. And so did the apostle Peter - Ac 10:25-26 C. TODAY
SOME RELIGIONS HAVE DEVELOPED A COUNTERPART TO THE WORSHIPOF ANGELS...
1. E.g.
Catholicism with its veneration of Mary and the "saints" 2. The reasoning is similar: "humility" ("We need them to intercede for us") 3. Though an attempt is made to distinguish between "veneration" and "worship"
in practice the distinction is lost among the average person 4. And the result is still the same: "not holding fast to the Head
" venerating other beings rather than Christ! [Finally
from verses 20-23 we can glean that there was the problemof...] IV. ASCETICISM (20-23)
A. ASCETICISM HAS OFTEN BEEN OFFERED AS A KEY TO "SELF-CONTROL" 1. Such as fasting and other forms of abstinence 2. Or self-flagellation (beating one's self with whips) B. BUT ASCETICISM IS OF NO REAL VALUE AGAINST THE "INDULGENCE OF THEFLESH"
1. As Paul points out in Co 2:23 2. Indeed
transformation comes through "renewing the MIND"
not afflicting the BODY a. As Paul wrote in Ro 12:1-2 b. Yes
those who "set their minds on the things of the Spirit" are the ones "who live according to the Spirit" - Ro 8:5 1) They are the ones who by the Spirit will be able to "put to death the deeds of the body" - Ro 8:13 2) For the "fruit of the Spirit" includes self-control - Ga5:22-23
C. TODAY
WE MUST BEWARE OF THE FALSE CLAIMS OF ASCETICISM! 1. Fasting may have a place in the lives of Christians - cf. Ac13:2-3; 14:23; 1 Co 7:5; 2 Co 11:27
a. But not for the purpose of developing self-control! b. Rather as a means of humbling oneself before God as we pray
that God might hear our prayer - cf. Ezr 8:21; Mt 6:17-18 2. Those religions that would teach various forms of "asceticism" as a means of developing spiritual maturity would have us believe that "the secret" is in such "neglect of the body" 3. But Christ is "the secret"
and by holding fast to Him we find the ability to "crucify the flesh with its passions and desires." - Ga 5:24 CONCLUSION
1. As we live the Christian life
attempting to mature spiritually
beware of any doctrine or teaching of man that suggests we need more than Jesus Christ! 2. Remember
He is "THE" way (not "A" way) - Jn 14:6 3. And we are COMPLETE in Him! Are you IN Him? - cf. Ga 3:26-27...
－－《Executable
Outlines》