Sunday, September 23, 2007 Colossians 2:16-23

Sunday, September 23, 2007 Sermon Text:
Colossians 2:16-23 (New International Version)

[16] Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. [17] These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ. [18] Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you for the prize. Such a person goes into great detail about what he has seen, and his unspiritual mind puffs him up with idle notions. [19] He has lost connection with the Head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow.
[20] Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: [21] "Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!"? [22] These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. [23] Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.

Initial Reflection on the Text
The false teachers practiced a form of spiritual elitism. They had certain boundary markers that set themselves apart from everyone else. Paul tells the Colossians, “do not let anyone judge you” in these inconsequential matters (v.16). Persons are not made spiritual by keeping certain religious traditions. In fact, the ceremonial rituals of the Old Testament were but “a shadow of the things to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ” (v.17). The problem with a “rule keeping” religion is that it promotes “false humility” (v.18). The errorists in the church were puffed up and actually unspiritual rather than super-spiritual. Outward religious forms have “an appearance of wisdom” (v.23) but they do not have any power, “they lack value in restraining sensual indulgence” (v.23). Where then does the believer receive power? From realizing that the believer has “died with Christ to the basic principles of this world” (v.20). As believers we are not to turn back to a form of legalism, but instead, realize that our old nature has been crucified with Christ!

What is God showing you this week? Your observations and insights into this passage are welcomed and encouraged.

For His Glory!
Pastor Joe