Colossians 2:20-23 NASB If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the world, why, as if you were living in the world, do you submit yourself to decrees, such as, “Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!” (which all refer to things destined to perish with use)—in accordance with the commandments and teachings of men? These are matters which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-made religion and self-abasement and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value against fleshly indulgence.

I’ve always been a procrastinator, so when I needed to study in college I would make up rules to try to motivate myself to study. Sometimes I would tell myself if I finished reading a chapter I could watch a TV show; or I could watch TV as long as I muted it during the commercials to read my textbook. Generally these rules did not motivate me to study, and I would end up breaking them! They seemed like a good idea, but they had no value against my procrastination.

Paul was trying to tell the Colossians that the rules imposed on them by “religious” leaders were of no value to their faith. Our religious rules don’t keep us from sinning; only spiritual growth through Christ will do that.

-Kevi

 

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