A Study of Colossians 2:20-24 covers the submission to religious regulations, human precepts and teachings, and the attraction of self-made religion.
A study of Colossians 2:20-24. The submission to religious regulations
V.20 If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world…
Paul asks a rhetorical question because he already knows the answer. And it goes back to those “elemental spirits” (Greek = stŏichĕiŏn) he mentioned in 2:8. They were possibly the pagan gods from Greek culture the Colossians followed in their lives before Jesus Christ. He is presenting a challenge to them regarding their new faith. In Christ they have died to their former life. So why go back to it? Paul affirms this new life in 2 Corinthians 5:17.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
Why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations…
The Greek word for “regulations” is dogmatízō, which means to establish a decree and what seems to be right. In other words, why do you let things with no power over you, control you anyway, because they sound right?
It’s also a fair question for today. Are there extra regulations you follow because they sound right, but actually enslave you?
A study of Colossians 2:20-24. Human precepts and teachings
21 “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch”…
Paul doesn’t specifically mention the regulations, but points out their controlling features. And he does so in a sarcastic tone that increases in its level of exaggeration. Don’t handle, taste or even touch. In a modern context, he might add: perhaps you should wear a hazmat suit to avoid all contamination!
However, this was not a completely new teaching. Jesus addressed this subject with the Jewish religious leaders in Matthew 15:1-20 and Mark 7:1-23. Certainly, there are people, places, and things we should avoid. And practicing regular spiritual disciplines will promote a holy life. But following Jesus Christ is more than a list of “do’s and don’ts.” It’s a life meant to set us free, not weigh us down.
22 Referring to things that all perish as they are used—according to human precepts and teachings?
Paul disqualifies them for two reasons: First, they are temporal in nature. Food that disappears because it is either consumed, or eventually goes bad and is thrown out. Secondly, they are based on strictly human instructions. Here again, Jesus speaks on this matter.
This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men. (ESV, Matthew 15:8-9)
The attraction of self-made religion
The self-help section of every bookstore tells a story. Humanity has an insatiable appetite for self-improvement, self-reliance, and self-sufficiency. Is it any wonder we also seek a self-made religion?
V.23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body…
The Greek word for “self-made religion” is ĕthĕlŏthrēskĕia, which means voluntary and unwarranted piety. In other words, false humility. We want to look good to other people. In physical attractiveness, perceived character, and moral uprightness. Although outward appearance doesn’t always reflect the condition of a person’s heart. But it’s God’s primary concern and how he sees us.
But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” (ESV, 1 Samuel 16:7)
The futility of external controls
But they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.
The Greek word for “indulgence” is plēsmŏnē, which means gratification and satisfying. In other words, external restraints don’t satisfy fleshly desires so they won’t control human passions. It is a battle all Christ-followers face in this life. Paul admits his own struggle in Romans 7:15-20.
But we are not powerless.
When tempted by Satan, Jesus answered by quoting scripture. It is our most effective defense too. In addition, since desires and passions take root in our mind, we should saturate our minds with scriptures. And rather than NOT think certain thoughts, purposefully guide them towards positive ones.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. (ESV, Philippians 4:8-9)
A Study of Colossians 2:15-19 covers disarming the rulers and authorities, avoiding disqualifications, and holding fast to the head.
A Study of Colossians 2:15-19. Disarming the rulers and authorities
V.15 He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.
This verse continues Paul’s thought in V.14 where he talks about “cancelling the record of debt” and “nailing it to the cross.”
The Greek word for “disarmed” is apĕkduŏmai, which means to divest wholly oneself, put off and despoil. It also includes the idea of stripping away. The Greek word for “triumphing” is thriambĕuō, which means to conquer, give victory, and to make an acclamatory procession.
And it presents a familiar picture to the Colossians. When Roman generals returned home after winning a war, they paraded through the middle of town followed by their spoils of war: loot and captured prisoners. It was a public declaration of victory.
Who are the rulers and authorities?
Who Paul specifically means by “rulers and authorities” is unclear. Is he alluding to the Roman authorities and Jewish religious leaders who collaborated to arrest and crucify Jesus? They abused their power and initially won. But in the end, the tables were turned and Jesus was the real winner. Because his death set mankind free from sin. An eternal victory and inspirational, underdog story for sure.
However, Paul more likely means the pagan Gods and spiritual beings he alluded to earlier that the Colossians used to follow. That held them captive. Their power over the Colossians was now stripped away. Although the “who” may not be clear, the point Paul’s making is. Jesus has triumphed, over these rulers and authorities, removed their power, and set the Colossians free.
V.16 Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath.
Now that Paul has established their sins are forgiven, debt cancelled, rulers and authorities disarmed and Jesus triumphant, he moves forward with a conclusion. And he starts with a “therefore.” In other words, here is what’s next now that these things are settled.
The Greek word for “pass judgment” is krinō, which means to distinguish, decide, to try, condemn and call into question. Apparently, part of the false teaching involved regulations and observances related to Old testament, Jewish law around diet and Jewish holy days. And Paul reasserts they are not required to follow these religious practices. And not to let others condemn them for not doing so because Christ has established new covenant.
A Study of Colossians 2:15-19. Avoiding disqualifications
V.17 These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ.
In this verse Paul positions the words “shadow” and “substance” in contrast to one another. The Greek word for “shadow” is skia, which means shade or a shadow. The Greek word for “substance” is sōma, which literally means body. And Paul’s using them to make a distinction. A shadow offers an obscure view and anticipates what is to come. But Jesus is clearly visible and a present reality. Other verses on “shadow” include Hebrews 8:6 and 10:1.
V.18 Let no one disqualify you…
The Greek word for “disqualify” is katabrabĕuō, which means to beguile of reward and defraud of salvation. In other words, Christ alone is sufficient. He provides full qualification and is all you need. So don’t let others distract you and lead you away from him by adding extra provisions.
Paul describes these extra provisions.
Insisting on asceticism…
The Greek word for “asceticism” is tapĕinŏphrŏsunē, which means humiliation of mind. Asceticism was an outward expression of humility that involved practices of self-denial, like fasting. They were meant to control fleshly appetites.
And worship of angels…
Rather than an outright, worship of angels, the false teaching was more likely an unhealthy preoccupation with the angelic and spiritual realm. And anything that replaces the true God as the one we worship is idolatry.
Going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind…
Throughout the Bible, God spoke through dreams and visions. Once, even through a talking donkey. And we hear modern stories of this too. Okay, maybe not with talking donkeys. But today, we also have God’s written word. And it is our “go to” source for discerning God’s will. Any modern dream or vision that contradicts scripture should be disregarded.
The Greek word for “sensuous” is sarx, which literally means flesh and meat of the body. But it’s often used figuratively to imply sinful humanity with its carnal passions. Perhaps a little more sarcasm from Paul? He’s describing people who are outwardly spiritual, speaking about spiritual matters, but with a mind focused on fleshly passions.
In other words, these teachers presented themselves as “super Christians” but their humility was really pride in disguise.
A Study of Colossians 2:15-19. Holding fast to the head
V.19 And not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments…
Now Paul returns to what he says in 1:18. Jesus is the head of the body. The church. And these religious teachers and supposedly super Christians with their spiritual talk and practices were not holding fast to that head. But then, there’s also the body. Because Christianity is not practiced in isolation, but in community. This is where we find support, encouragement, and accountability.
Grows with a growth that is from God.
The presence of Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit empowers the church. And together, the members of that body grow together as disciples of Jesus Christ in God’s power.
A Study of Colossians 2:10-14 presents Jesus as the sovereign God who spiritually circumcises, the one who replaces the law, and baptism the symbol of a new life in Christ.
A Study of Colossians 2:10-14. Jesus is the sovereign God who spiritually circumcises.
V.10 And you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority
Paul says in V.9, the whole fullness of deity dwelled bodily in Jesus and in V.10, the Colossians were filled in Jesus. Although “fullness” in V.9 and “filled” in V.10 use the same root Greek word, their meanings are different. To be filled in Jesus doesn’t mean Christ’s divinity or his perfection is passed on to us. But that in him all our spiritual needs are met. Paul says more about this “fullness” in Ephesians 1:23 and 3:19.
The Greek word for “rule” is archē, and means rule, power, magistrate and chief in order, time, place, or rank. “Authority” is the Greek ĕxŏusia, which includes mastery, power, right and strength. In other words, Jesus is God and therefore, sovereign. He rules over all and therefore, all spiritual requirements are met in him alone.
The old and new
V.11 In him also,you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands…
Genesis 17:1-14 records the covenant God established with Abraham. And it included circumcising all Jewish males. So if some of the false teachings the Colossians faced included converting to Judaism, it meant circumcision too. Perhaps he was warning them of what following such a teaching involved.
Putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ…
Paul differentiates between the Old covenant practice of circumcision and the New covenant relationship with Jesus Christ. What he calls a circumcision made without hands. One is physical and the other is spiritual. Circumcision of new Gentile believers was a controversial topic in the early church. And Paul addresses it more fully in Galatians 5:1-13 and Romans 2:25-30.
A Study of Colossians 2:10-14. Baptism symbolizes a new life in Christ.
V.12 Buried with him in baptism in which you were also raised with him through faith…
Baptism is a symbol of the New Covenant. It pictures the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus and publicly demonstrates a new believer’s faith in Jesus Christ. And a symbol of identification, not a qualification for salvation. But an act of obedience that follows the example of Jesus. However, it’s not simply punching an entrance ticket to heaven. But the public declaration of an intent to follow Jesus’ example of dying to self. The shedding of a sin nature and the start of a new nature in Christ.
The powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead.
Salvation comes through faith in Jesus. Yet, it’s because of a powerful work of God. Therefore, baptism symbolically pictures the Gospel story. But it was through an actual historic event. God physically raised Jesus from the dead. And He spiritually raises those who follow Jesus.
A Study of Colossians 2:10-14. Jesus fulfills and replaces the law.
V.13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses…
Paul also discusses circumcision in Ephesians 2:10-13. And it helps further explain his meaning here. In short, as uncircumcised Gentiles, but more importantly guilty sinners, they were spiritually dead. However, God made them alive by forgiving those sins through Jesus’ sacrifice. Today, we likewise experience forgiveness and spiritual life through Jesus.
V.14 By cancellingthe record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.
God forgives sin because Jesus fulfilled all the requirements of the law. And through his sacrifice for sin, he cancelled the debt. The cross is where he completed that mission. The instrument of his death. And the provision that sets us free.
A Study of Colossians 2: 6-9 includes walking in Christ and in faith, avoiding capture by human devices and the fullness of Christ’s deity.
A Study of Colossians 2: 6-9. Walking in Christ and in faith
V.6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him…
The Greek word for “walk” is pĕripatĕō, and means to live and deport oneself. Specifically, Paul means their Christian conduct. We sometimes treat the Christian faith like a two step process. First we receive Christ and then we follow in discipleship. But here, Paul links them together as one continued action. If you receive Jesus Christ as Lord, a Christian lifestyle naturally follows and visibly demonstrates it.
So what does this look like?
V.7 Rooted and built up in him and established in the faith…
The Greek word for “rooted” is rhizŏō, and means to root and become stable. It suggests the picture of a tree with roots planted deeply and permanently in the ground. “Built up” is the Greek ĕpŏikŏdŏmĕō, and means to build upon. The word is used in present tense and indicates an ongoing process. It brings to mind Matthew 7:24-27 where Jesus relates the wisdom of building a house on the foundation of rock.
“Established” is also translated “strengthened” and is the Greek word bĕbaiŏō, which means to confirm as in something certain and reliable. And “faith” is the Greek word pistis, which means conviction of and system of Christian truth. The “strengthening” and “establishing” Paul speaks of takes place in those convictions and within that system of Christian truth.
A Study of Colossians 2: 6-9. Avoiding capture by human devices
V.8 See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit…
Now Paul warns them about several things that might take them captive. The Greek word for “captive” is sulagōgĕō, and was commonly used to indicate war captives. It means to lead away as booty or spoils of war.
“Philosophy” is the Greek word philŏsŏphia, and literally means the love of wisdom. As a branch of the Humanities, philosophy is not inherently bad and Paul doesn’t suggest it. But it covers many areas and depths of thoughts. Some that offer “empty deceit.” The two respective Greek words, kĕnŏs, means empty or in vain and apatē, means deceit and delusion. In other words, philosophical ideas that lead you away from Gospel truth are empty and delusional. And Paul goes on to describe them more specifically.
According to human tradition…
“Human traditions” are the Greek words anthrōpŏs, which means human being and paradŏsis, which also means transmission. It suggests the passing down of stories orally from one generation to the next. Not exactly like the campfire stories your parents told you and you told your kids, but a similar idea anyway. Paul might mean Jewish oral traditions that were tacked on to the written law or pagan ideas that were floating around during this time.
According to the elemental spirits of the world…
The Greek word for “elemental spirits” is stŏichĕiŏn. It literally means something orderly in arrangement and is translated element, principle, and rudiment. Scholars differ on Paul’s specific meaning. The false teaching may have included angel worship, a form of astrology, or other spiritual deities. The point is, your sole focus should be on Jesus and not Jesus plus something else.
REFLECT & RECORD
Describe what it means to walk in Christ?
What does this look like in your life? Does it align with what Paul describes?
Who is someone you know that you think has a strongly rooted faith? Why do you think that is?
A Study of Colossians 2: 6-9. According to Christ and the fullness of his deity
V.8 And not according to Christ.
Paul begins V.6 by telling the Colossians to walk in Christ and ends V.8 by reaffirming Christ alone. The capturing philosophies he identifies in between that include empty deceit, human tradition, and elemental spirits of the world are additions and therefore, “not according to Christ.”
V.9 For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily…
This phrase is essentially a repeat of 1:19, except Paul adds the word “bodily.” It’s from the Greek word sōmatikōs, which means physically, bodily, actually, and in solid reality. It foils any attempt to describe Jesus as some kind of spirit being, John 1:14 uses a similar expression to describe Jesus in human form. “Deity” is the Greek word thĕŏtēs, which means divinity and godhead. “Dwells” is the Greek katŏikĕō, which means to reside and house permanently, In other words, God in his complete divinity was present in Jesus’ physical body. Although it is beyond our comprehension, we accept it as Biblical truth.
REFLECT & RECORD
What teachings have you encountered that represent empty deceit, human tradition, and elemental spirits?
How have you navigated them?
Why do you think the incarnation of Jesus into human form is a critical teaching? How has it impacted your faith journey?
A Study of Colossians 2:1-5 covers Paul’s struggle to encourage hearts, assurance in treasures of wisdom and knowledge, deceptive plausible arguments, and the firmness of faith.
A Study Of Colossians 2:1-5. Paul’s struggle to encourage hearts
V. Know how great a struggle I have for you…
Paul hadn’t been to the Colossian church, and yet he struggled for them. The Greek word for “struggle” is agṓn, from which we get “agony” and it means contest and conflict. It’s a version of the Greek word agōnizŏmai, translated “struggling” in 1:29. It means to compete for a prize and contend with an adversary as in an athletic competition.
Of course, Paul is in prison and limited in physical movement. So his struggle is most likely in fervent prayer although that too can physically and emotionally drain you. Consider how Jesus struggled in prayer the night before his crucifixion. Even though Paul could not physically minister to the Colossians, he labored in prayerful concern for their spiritual well-being.
V.2 That their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love…
The Greek word for “encouraged” is parakalĕō, which means to call near. It presents the idea of encouragement, comfort, and exhortation. The words “knit together” come from the Greek word sumbibazō, which means to unite and drive together. In effect, when the church is united in loving relationships, it encourages and strengthens the body of believers against outside, disrupting influences.
A Study Of Colossians 2:1-5. Full assurance in treasures of wisdom and knowledge
To reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ…
“Full assurance” is the Greek word plērŏphŏria, which means entire confidence. “Understanding” is the Greek word sunĕsis, and means intelligence and mentally putting together. And “knowledge” is the Greek word ĕpignōsis, which means recognition, acknowledgment, and full disclosure.
Together, they describe a process of thoughtfully studying scripture to better know and understand it. Why? Because we aren’t expected to accept Biblical truth on mere speculation. Instead, we should read it, meditate on it, and prayerfully apply it to our lives.
And the full disclosure of God’s mystery is in Christ. So no further enlightenment is required. Therefore, we only need to grow in knowing Jesus better.
V.3 In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge
The Greek word for “treasures” is thēsaurŏs, and means a deposit of wealth. “Wisdom” is the Greek sŏphia, which means higher or lower worldly or spiritual wisdom. And “knowledge” is gnōsis, which means knowledge and science. In other words, Jesus is the complete source of spiritual wisdom and maturity. We grow in that spiritual wisdom and maturity as we seek to know and follow him in discipleship.
REFLECT & RECORD
Are you part of a strong community of believers? Need to make an adjustment? If so, what should it look like?
If Jesus is the treasure chest of wisdom and knowledge are you a full-time treasure hunter, part-time pursuer, or seldom seeker?
A Study Of Colossians 2:1-5. Deceptive plausible arguments but the firmness of Faith in Christ
V.4 That no one may delude you with plausible arguments
“Plausible argument” is the Greek word pithanŏlŏgia, which means persuasive language and enticing words. In other words, teachings with a ring of truth that stray from the Gospel. It is Satan’s most common strategy. Rather than leaps away from Biblical truth he takes small steps. One after another. Like a slow fade. The gentle drift on an undercurrent of falsehood that leads you far from the truth. Which is Jesus Christ.
V.5 Rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.
The Greek word for “good order” is the Greek taxis, which means regular arrangement, fixed succession of rank or character, and official dignity. “Firmness” is stĕrĕōma, and means something established, confirmed, and stable. “Faith” is the Greek word pistis, and means credence and conviction of religious truth.
“Order” and “firmness” suggest a military image. Like soldiers presented for inspection. Paul uses a similar analogy when he describes putting on the amor of God in Ephesians 6:10-20. The idea is that Christ-followers should prepare for spiritual battle because our faith is attacked from many sides. And stealth by way of persuasive arguments is one of the enemy’s most effective strategies. Our best defense is to hold fast to Jesus Christ.
REFLECT & RECORD
What plausible arguments have you confronted in your faith journey? Describe how you navigated them.
How firm is your faith right now on a scale of one to ten? What things are causing doubt?
A Study of Colossians 1:21-29 discusses reconciliation, presented as holy and blameless, from adversary to advancing the Gospel, and the mission of discipleship.
A Study of Colossians 1:21-29. Reconciled and presented as holy and blameless
V.21 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds…
The Greek word for “alienated” is apallŏtriŏō, which means alien and estranged. “Hostile” is the Greek word ĕchthrŏs, which also means hateful and represents an enemy and adversary. And “mind” is the Greek word dianŏia, which indicates thought, understanding, and disposition.
In other words, as sinful, unbelievers, the Colossians opposed God in both their thinking and moral actions. And the same is true today.
But people who follow Jesus align their thinking and moral actions to obey God’s will.
V.22 He has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him…
The word “reconciled” is apŏkatallassō, the same Greek word used in V.20, and Paul applies it to every Christ-follower. Reconciliation is initiated by God and can’t be earned through good behavior, but was paid for by Jesus’ sacrificial death. Paul confirms this in other writings.
For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (ESV, 2 Corinthians 5:21)
Not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith— (ESV, Philippians 3:9)
V.23 If indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard…
However, there is a condition. An “if.” It’s not a qualification for salvation, but a mark of discipleship. Christ-followers are expected to persevere in their faith. It is not a one and done. Simply receive Christ for an entrance pass into heaven and then live as you please. But rather, following Jesus is a life long commitment to imitating his example of sacrifice and pursuing a life that pleases God.
A Study of Colossians 1:21-29. From adversary to advancing the Gospel
V.24 I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church,
Paul went from church persecutor to Gospel missionary. He was in prison as he wrote this letter and says he’s glad to suffer for their sake and for the body of Christ–the church. Nor is this the only time he ever suffered. He faced other hardships described in 2 Corinthians 11:22-28.
Furthermore, God foretold Paul’s suffering when speaking to Ananias in Acts 9:16. I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.
But what affliction does Jesus lack? His meaning is confusing at first glance. Scholars suggest, he probably doesn’t mean a lack in Jesus’ own suffering, but a lack of Jesus’ suffering in him. In other words, he sees himself as sharing in Christ’s sufferings.
V.25 Tomake the word of God fully known.
Paul was a prolific, New Testament writer, and global ambassador for the Gospel. His three missionary journeys recorded in Acts went through what is today Greece, Turkey and Syria. It’s estimated he travelled more than 10,000 miles and started at least 14 churches.
A Study of Colossians 1:21-29. The mission in making disciples.
V.27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory
The mystery Paul speaks of is not a detective crime novel, or a spiritual enigma understood by the religious elite. But rather, the person, Jesus Christ. And Christ in you could also be taken as Christ among you. In both however, he works in ways beyond our comprehension. Furthermore, prior to Jesus, the Jewish religion generally excluded Gentiles. But now, Jews and Gentiles can respond to Jesus.
The Greek word for “hope” is ĕlpis, and is more than wishful thinking. It includes a sense of confidence and expectation. And the Greek word for “glory” is dŏxa, which includes the ideas of honor, praise, and worship and indicates the promise of eternal life.
V.28 Teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.
Paul’s goal is to present everyone mature in Christ, which is the goal of discipleship. But does this mean absolute perfection?
The Greek word for “present” is paristēmi, which means to stand beside, exhibit, and recommend. Like Paul stands by their side and presents them to God. And tĕlĕiŏs, is the Greek word for “mature” and means complete in spiritual growth and moral character. So we are not expected to reach perfection, but continue growing in spiritual maturity.
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