Down to Earth But Heavenly Minded

What does Colossians Chapter 2 mean?

Chapter 2 addresses various false teachings which threatened the Colossian believers. These include a reliance on human, worldly-based philosophy (Colossians 2:1–10), Jewish legalism (Colossians 2:11–17), mysticism (Colossians 2:18–19), and ascetic living (Colossians 2:20–23). These ideas are all consistent with a philosophy known as Gnosticism, one of the earlier heresies troubling the church.

The first section of this chapter (Colossians 2:1–10) begins with Paul’s concern regarding the Colossian believers (Colossians 2:1–5). His goal was for them to be established in the faith (Colossians 2:7). They were not to be taken “captive” by philosophy (Colossians 2:8), but were to remain focused on Christ (Colossians 2:8–10). Paul’s trouble here is not with all philosophy, or all deep thinking. Instead, he refers to an approach dependent on explicitly anti-Christian principles.

The second section (Colossians 2:11–17) deals with issues related to Jewish legalism. Paul discusses the Jewish rite of circumcision, noting that believers receive the “circumcision of Christ” (Colossians 2:11) and so do not require human circumcision to please God. Food, drink, and special days were also noted as only a “shadow of the things to come” (Colossians 2:17).

The third section (Colossians 2:18–19) addresses areas of mysticism. This included ascetic living, worship of angels, and visions. This self–made religion was of no value in following Christ. In fact, such practices contradict both the commands and the example of Jesus.

The fourth section (Colossians 2:20–23) discusses ascetic living or human rules about spiritual or religious matters. Paul said these have the “appearance of wisdom” (Colossians 2:23) but do not keep a person from sinning. It is Christ alone that can change the heart. A primary characteristic of Gnosticism was the belief that the physical body was evil, and so anything connected to the flesh, in any sense, was to be shunned. Overly pious self-denial is not what we were created for, nor is it how God wants us to relate to our physical selves.

Chapter Context
Chapter 1 introduced Christ as supreme over all of creation. Chapter 2 refines this argument by showing how the salvation offered through Jesus is superior to false, alternative systems. Paul specifically refutes several ideas, such as legalism, asceticism (self-denial), and mysticism. These are not how God intends us to grow, spiritually. Later chapters will contrast these false, external attempts with the true, inner spiritual growth which comes only by faith in Christ.

Verse by Verse

Verse 1. For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face,

Paul begins this chapter by sharing his spiritual burden for the Colossian believers. Paul uses the Greek term agōna, which means “conflict, fight, or struggle.” It’s difficult to fight, spiritually speaking, for those we have not personally met. Discipleship, evangelism, and encouragement are always easier when we can meet others face-to-face. In Paul’s case, he is attempting to do the work of an apostle while a prisoner under house arrest in Rome. This complicates his work even further.

Paul’s struggle, however, is not for only the Colossian believers. It also includes other churches where he hasn’t had the opportunity to visit in person. Laodicea (Colossians 4:13–16), for example, was approximately 12 miles west of Colossae. Epaphras evangelized both of these towns (Colossians 4:12–13). Colossians 4:13 will also mention a third nearby town, Hieropolis, where Paul did not know the believers personally. Despite his lack of personal connection, Paul prays for these believers, writes to them, and represents them from a distance.

Context Summary
Colossians 2:1–5 explains the entire purpose behind Paul’s letter to the Christians in Colossae. Paul’s desire is to fight—spiritually—for these fellow believers, but this is difficult from a distance, and from prison. While Paul is happy to hear that the Colossians are standing strong in their faith, he sees potential problems. Paul writes this letter to strengthen their faith against particular false teachings. These deceptions are mostly based in attractive, but untrue, arguments. This passage is Paul’s springboard into a defense against the tricks being used against his readers.

Verse 2. that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God ‘s mystery, which is Christ,

Paul follows his account of personal struggle with the goal of his efforts: spiritual encouragement. Encouragement is a primary goal of his letter. In Colossians 4:7–8 Paul adds that he is also sending Tychicus for that very reason.

Paul includes an interesting word picture in his attempt to encourage the Christians of Colossae. The metaphor of sewing hearts together, in love, implies a unique unity among believers. The goal of this united encouragement was mutual knowledge, wisdom, and confidence in their Christian walk. As Paul repeats throughout this brief letter, his goal is to promote a focus on Christ, and Christ alone.

Mystery is noted four times in this letter (Colossians 1:26, 27; Colossians 2:2; Colossians 4:3). Paul refers to the idea nearly twenty times in his writings. In this context, Paul is referring to an aspect of previously unknown information. However, this “mystery” is no longer some special hidden knowledge. This truth has been revealed, in Christ. This revelation makes the mystery of Christ far superior to the mystical teachings which Paul will speak against later in this chapter.

Verse 3. in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

After mentioning mystery in the previous verse, Paul notes that Christ is the one “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Treasures are often hidden for the sake of keeping them safe. In this case, the knowledge and wisdom are kept in Christ, but made available to those who believe in Him. Paul sometimes spoke of the “hidden wisdom of God” (1 Corinthians 2:7; see also Colossians 1:26; 3:3). “All” the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are found in Jesus. Paul expressed similar words in Romans 11:33: “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God!”

The Bible says that Solomon was the wisest man, other than Jesus, who ever lived (1 Kings 3:12). Solomon often spoke of the association of wisdom and knowledge (2 Chronicles 1:10– 12; Ecclesiastes 1:16; 2:21, 26). Paul’s reference may also allude to Isaiah 33:6: “he will be the stability of your times, abundance of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is Zion’s treasure.”

Verse 4. I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments.

According to Paul, wisdom and knowledge are found in Christ (Colossians 2:3). For this reason, Paul can encourage the Colossian believers not to be fooled by convoluted arguments from non-believers. The Greek word Paul uses is paralogizētai, which means “to fool, cheat by trickery, or deceive.” It carries a clear sense of dishonesty, not merely confusion. In other words, the challenges Paul refers to are not complex arguments, but deceptive arguments: those which seem believable, but which are actually false.

At the time this was written, false teachers such as the Gnostics may have already been attempting to deceive the Colossian believers. Paul’s letters were frequently written to prevent any deception or delusion (2 Thessalonians 2:11). Isaiah 41:29 also emphasized that idols are “all a delusion.”

The “plausible arguments” Paul mentions are likely a reference to the human philosophies which he will mention later in the chapter. Human arguments may appear wise, but they are foolish in comparison to God’s wisdom. In 2 Corinthians 10:5 Paul would write, “We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.” Human knowledge often sets itself against God. Though wisdom is of great value (as the Proverbs proclaim), true wisdom comes from God and His Word, not human tricks.

Verse 5. For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.

As in verse 1, Paul notes he is not physically with the Colossian Christians, but is still closely connected with them. The spiritual connection is ultimately more important than any physical concerns. Paul used similar phrasing in 1 Corinthians 5:3, offering judgment to a sinning believer from a distant location. Paul elsewhere used the contrast between absence and presence to indicate his close connection with believers despite physical distance (2 Corinthians 10:11; 13:2; Philippians 1:27).

From a distance, Paul was happy to see the Colossians’ strong, confident faith. These believers were focused on what was right, standing firm in their faith, a common Pauline teaching (1 Corinthians 16:13; 2 Corinthians 1:24; Galatians 5:1; Ephesians 6:13; Philippians 1:27; 4:1; 2 Thessalonians 2:15; Titus 1:9). Part of Paul’s rejoicing over the state of the Colossian church is that they are growing in faith and knowledge, without needing an apostle like Paul to be there in person (Colossians 1:7).

Verse 6. Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him,

In this brief verse, Paul makes a grand statement about the believer’s walk with Christ. The Colossians, like all other saved believers, received Christ by faith (Acts 4:12; Romans 10:9; Ephesians 2:8–9). Paul’s implication is that those who accepted Christ in faith ought to “walk”—to live and think—by faith, as well (Colossians 2:7). The false teachings confronting Colossae emphasized works and personal sacrifice as the means to pleasing God. It is true that works are a vital aspect of the Christian’s life (1 John 3:17–18), but these are the results of saving faith, not the source of it. Our walk with God must be rooted in faith—and therefore rooted in Him, not us—just as salvation is. Otherwise, our spirituality is based on human performance and is destined to fail.

Though Paul lived a highly motivated Christian life, he knew faith was the only way to please God. A certain type of works without faith can be accomplished by non-believers. However, a person who has received Christ as Lord will live by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). This kind of faith will lead to many good works, but our salvation remains constant despite our actions because it is based on Christ and what He has done.

Context Summary
Colossians 2:6–15 describes Christ’s superiority in defeating sin. This is shown in stark contrast to the failure of the unbelieving world. Paul encourages the Colossians not to be tricked by deceptive arguments. This passage also explains the drastic nature of salvation. Those who put their faith in Christ are ”spiritually” circumcised and are identified with God through their faith. This act of forgiveness by God frees us from the eternal penalty of sin, restores our relationship, and defeats the evil forces fighting against us.

Verse 7. rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.

Paul provides three images that show the importance of walking in faith (Colossians 2:6). First, we are “rooted” in Christ. The idea is that of a tree or plant whose roots form the strength and basis for life. The believer’s roots are Christ, not another source, as false teachers would suggest. Second, the believer is “built up” in Christ. This building or architectural metaphor speaks of a building that is constructed by the power of Christ. Just as only Christ can save a person, only Christ can build up or mature a person. Third, to be “established” in the faith is a legal metaphor referring to maturity or something firmly decided.

The second half of the verse refers again to Epaphras, the man who brought Christianity to the Colossians. His outreach to these people included the true gospel, in contrast with the false teachings Paul is about to address. The result of the true gospel of Jesus is thanksgiving (Colossians 1:3; Colossians 4:2).

Verse 8. See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.

In prior verses, Paul focused on a positive depiction of the Colossian believers and their faithfulness. Here, he transitions to warning them against false teaching.

Jesus came to set captives free (Luke 4:18; Romans 7:6; Galatians 3:23), not to leave people in spiritual chains. Paul personally dealt with sin seeking to make him captive (Romans 7:23), yet fought against every evil thought to make it captive to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).

What could take the Colossians captive? Paul mentions “philosophy,” which he means in a very specific sense. This is not a broad reference to all meanings of that term. The Bible’s stance on deep thinking, logic, and philosophy-as-philosophy is very positive (Acts 17:11; 1 John 4:1; Proverbs 15:28). In this context, Paul is condemning philosophy which is based on explicitly anti-Christian principles. In verse 4, he referred to these kinds of arguments as “deceptive,” using a Greek term which implies trickery or cheating. In other words, actual critical thinking is not the problem. Self-deluding, worldly philosophical “tricks” are the problem (2 Timothy 3:7). The false teachers of Colossae are using these kinds of attacks against Christ.

Paul refers to “empty deceit.” This would include hollow rhetoric or outright lies. “Elemental spirits,” in this context, is a reference to the basic assumptions we use in our thinking (Galatians 4:3). If a person starts from a blatantly anti-spiritual standpoint, they are going to come to anti-spiritual conclusions. This, again, reminds us that fallen human wisdom can be at odds with Christ’s teachings.

Paul also refers to “human tradition,” reminding the reader that simply because an idea is preferred, or historical, does not make it true. The phrase in Greek is paradosin tōn anthrōpōn. This implies the laws, rules, or handed-down regulations of humanity. Paul wants the Colossians—and all believers—to focus on truth, and on Christ, not on trickery and human preference.

Verse 9. For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily,

Speaking of Christ, Paul closely imitates the phrasing he used in Colossians 1:19. In chapter 1, the connection was reconciliation with God through the blood of Christ. Here, the contrast is between the importance of deceptive human philosophy and Christ’s wisdom. His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:9).

These words also emphasize the human aspect of Jesus. Some taught that Jesus was divine, but not fully human. Paul clearly noted Jesus was physically human while also fully divine (John 1:1). Though modern skeptics often argue belief in the deity of Jesus was a later development, Paul clearly believed and wrote about the deity of Jesus in this letter, which was written around AD 60—62. This was a teaching Paul said he received from the apostles after his conversion, which occurred within three years of the resurrection (Galatians 1:18). The doctrine of Jesus’ deity is not a later invention, but the teaching of the eyewitnesses of Jesus.

Verse 10. and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority.

Here, Paul continues a thought he began in verse 9. The “whole fullness of deity” dwells in Jesus, meaning He is both entirely man and entirely God. Paul now links that “filling” to the way Christ relates to Christian believers. Jesus serves as the connection between the believer and God the Father. He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6), the only way of salvation (Acts 4:12). The Colossian believers had been “filled with the knowledge of his will” (Colossians 1:9).

Paul also re-emphasizes the supremacy of Jesus. Christ had authority to forgive sins (Matthew 9:6), to heal, and to cast out demons. All authority on heaven and earth has been given to Him (Matthew 28:18). All human authority has been appointed by God and is under His jurisdiction (Romans 13:1–2). Paul wrote in Ephesians 1:21 that Christ is “far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.”

Verse 11. In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ,

Circumcision was of great importance to Jews, serving as a covenantal sign since the time of Abraham (Genesis 17). Moses faced a serious problem over not circumcising his own sons (Exodus 4:24–26). Jewish male infants were circumcised on the eighth day according to the Mosaic law, and Jesus mentioned circumcision being performed on the Sabbath so as to keep the law (John 7:22). Because circumcision was so important, that term is often used as a short-hand for the entire Law.

However, once Jesus came according to prophecy, He became the fulfillment of the law. Paul wrote, “For neither circumcision counts for anything nor uncircumcision, but keeping the commandments of God” (1 Corinthians 7:19). Circumcision remained a controversy for the very early church, though the apostles clearly taught that such rituals were not necessary for Christians (Acts 11:1–18). Here, Paul notes that what circumcision does, physically, faith in Christ does, spiritually. In other words, what matters is knowing Christ, not physical circumcision.

Verse 12. having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead.

In prior verses, Paul discussed how circumcision, as a physical ritual, is no longer required. Knowing Christ is what matters, and we are identified—spiritually—with Jesus through our faith, not our physical actions. Here, Paul connects the purpose of Old Testament circumcision with the purpose of New Testament baptism. Both serve as an external, physical symbol of the relationship between God and mankind.

Just as Christ died and rose again, baptism serves as a symbol of dying to the old self and beginning a new life. These words pack a great deal of information into a short phrase. Baptism is noted as important for every Christian after conversion. Second, salvation is again emphasized as in Christ by faith. Third, faith comes from God’s power, not our own. Fourth, God the Father raised Jesus from the dead. Jesus did not merely pass out, but literally died and then physically rose again. All of these are crucial points for understanding the gospel message.

Verse 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 notes the spiritual condition of the Colossian believers before Christ: They were both dead in their sins (Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:5) and physically uncircumcised (Ephesians 2:11). These believers were clearly Gentiles, as they did not practice the Jewish ritual of circumcision. So, not only were they guilty of sin, as all men are (Romans 3:23), but they were not part of God’s chosen people.

Despite being sinners and uncircumcised Gentiles, God took action to forgive Christian believers, and to make them alive in Him, through Christ. Paul makes these two ideas into a direct contrast: first is being dead in trespasses and uncircumcised, the second is being alive in God and forgiven (Luke 11:4; 1 John 1:9). Paul has already mentioned forgiveness of sins in Colossians 1:14 and will again refer to the theme in Colossians 3:13. Forgiveness serves as one of the most powerful aspects of being a believer in Christ. A believer receives new life for eternity, while also experiencing a new quality of life today.

Paul continues his explanation of this idea in verse 14.

Verse 14. by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.

This verse continues the thought begun in verse 13, explaining how the Colossian believers had been forgiven. Though the Colossians were once dead in sin, and uncircumcised, now they are alive and “spiritually circumcised” in Christ. In this verse, Paul makes special emphasis on several aspects of the forgiveness we have in Jesus.

First, Jesus cancelled the record of our debt, in the same way a legal pardon cancels the penalty for that crime. In the day and time Paul wrote this, a person could be arrested or enslaved to pay off financial debts. They could also be enslaved as punishment for committing a crime. The image Paul’s original readers would have gotten is a person’s financial debt being erased along with the legal consequences. A believer no longer lived under the threat of punishment or enslavement to sin.

Second, Jesus “set aside” our sins as believers. This is a separate action from the legal or financial metaphor. Declaring someone “pardoned” does not necessarily mean they are “welcomed.” However, according to Paul, those who put their faith in Christ have their sins removed from His sight. The failures of a saved believer are no longer a barrier between them and God. God’s forgiveness not only means freedom from the eternal punishment of sin, it means we can have a living relationship with God, now.

Third, for the believer in Christ, the death of Jesus on the cross is sufficient payment for all sins. Paul uses a graphic metaphor here, of sin itself being crucified. In that era, crucifixion was not merely a brutal form of execution, it was a sign of absolute rejection. There were many other ways to execute people at that time, but crucifixion carried a sense of shame and disowning. So, when God crucifies sin, He is not merely killing it, He is completely and utterly ignoring it and cutting it off.

This thought is further emphasized in verse 15, where Paul says that Christ’s victory over sin is a mark of “open shame” for the spiritual powers which oppose us.

Verse 15. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.

In verse 14, Paul referred to the forgiveness offered by God using two important themes. The first was the legal aspect, where the debt and punishment are cancelled. The second is the restoration of the relationship we have with God. Paul also referred to God metaphorically crucifying sin; this implies a total rejection as well as death. In other words, God not only forgives our sins and gives us a restored relationship, He completely destroys and rejects that sin.

Here, in verse 15, Paul adds that through the cross, Jesus “disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame.” These authorities Paul references are likely spiritual authorities, similar to his words in Ephesians 6:12. The context of the passage is entirely spiritual, not political, so Paul’s meaning has nothing to do with shame toward earthly kings or leaders. Rather, he is speaking about the power of Jesus over the forces of spiritual darkness. Rulers and authorities are terms used for spiritual entities in Ephesians 3:10 and 1 Peter 3:22.

How did Jesus disarm and openly shame spiritual authorities? According to Paul, “by triumphing over them in [Christ].” Some translators suggest that the phrase “in him” might be better translated as “in it,” meaning the cross (Colossians 2:14). That’s a minor point, however, since in either sense it is Christ and His power that brings victory over spiritual evil.

Verse 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.

Paul starts this new passage off with the word “therefore.” This means the upcoming thoughts are the result of his prior statements. In earlier verses, Paul explained that our relationship with God is through Christ, not through physical rituals such as circumcision. The salvation we have, through Christ, is complete and total. Not only does it remove the penalty of sin and restore our relationship to God, it also defeats the forces of evil which come against us (Colossians 2:13–15).

This verse uses those prior thoughts to refute a claim made by false teachers. These deceivers were telling Colossian Christians that they must follow specific rituals, rules, and regulations in order to be saved. In the next verse, Paul will call these concepts “a shadow of the things to come,” or something much less important than Christ Himself. In contrast, Paul writes, “let no one pass judgment on you,” with regard to four specific areas.

First, Paul notes dietary restrictions. The Mosaic law included many dietary aspects, such as not eating pork, an unclean food for Jews.

Second, Paul mentions holidays and feast days. Jewish laws included many specific celebrations such as Passover and the Day of Atonement, which were referred to as “festivals.”

Third, a “new moon” refers to the new moon celebrations in the Mosaic law (Numbers 29:6).

Fourth, Paul mentions the Sabbath day. In Judaism, Saturday, the seventh day, was a holy day from sunset Friday till sunset Saturday, during which no work could be done (Exodus 20:8–11).

Paul clearly states, in this verse, that these kinds of rules are not requirements for saved believers. The passage immediately before this verse explained that Christ removed all sin and penalty through His sacrifice. As a result, there are no possible works we can do, or need to do, in order to be made righteous with God. This is an idea Paul gave additional detail to in Romans chapter 14.

Context Summary
Colossians 2:16–23 is an application of the ideas Paul mentions in the previous verses. Verses 6 through 15 explained the supremacy of Christ over deceptive, human-based thinking. In this passage, Paul explicitly states that rules, rituals, and self-denial are not the path of spiritual growth. Trying to grow, spiritually, through these efforts is as impossible as a body part developing naturally while severed from the head! Living under severe rules might look good to others, but it’s not how God has called us to relate to Him as Christian believers.

Verse 17. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ.

Paul refers to the Old Testament legal requirements, from verse 16, calling them “a shadow of the things to come.” The Greek word skia, translated as “shadow,” can also refer to “shade, a sketch, or an outline.” Paul contrasts this with the Greek word sōma, translated as “body.” This word can also mean “reality or substance.” This is the reason adherence to the Law is not a requirement: The Law was merely an outline; it is a shadow, or a hint of things to come. Christ is the actual substance. In making this statement, Paul did not speak against the Law, but rather spoke of Jesus as superior to the Mosaic law. It is the difference between a book and the author of a book. The Law could not exist without the Author. Jesus serves as the author of life (Acts 3:15). He fulfilled the Law without contradicting it. Jesus taught, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them” (Matthew 5:17).

Verse 18. Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind,

Paul switches to an athletic reference in this verse, stating, “Let no one disqualify you.” In athletics, outside judges, who are not themselves running, can declare certain people unfit or unable to compete, because they break some particular rule. Paul’s point here is not that such things are inherently wrong, but simply that those who point to the Old Testament law as a reason to “disqualify” Christian believers are mistaken. His statement is in the context of the rules and rituals mentioned a few verses earlier.

While the Old Testament laws are not necessarily binding, there are moral and spiritual boundaries which Christians need to mind. Violating these will, in effect, “disqualify” a person from getting the prize there are seeking to win through their efforts. Paul personally worked hard to stay faithful and not disqualify himself from ministry (1 Corinthians 9:27). In 2 Timothy 3:8, he mentioned two men “disqualified regarding the faith.” These are true spiritual failings, not merely a lack of obedience to human rules.

Paul encourages the Colossian Christians not to fall for the false teachings of those who held to mystical practices that were in contrast with God’s truth. Paul’s list includes four areas used as distractions from true Christian living, as promoted by false teachers.

First, Paul warns against “asceticism,” a term referring to self-denial. The general idea includes extreme practices which appear noble but are not required by God, such as a vow of silence, prolonged fasting, or lifelong celibacy. These practices are not always wrong, but they are in no way requirements to follow Christ. Gnosticism, an early heresy confronting Christians, taught that the body was evil, and so all physical desires needed to be squelched.

Second, Paul notes the “worship of angels.” Jesus taught that we are to worship God alone (Matthew 4:10). This deception goes along with Paul’s warning not to be taken in by deceptive arguments (Colossians 2:8). Many of the false teachers in this day taught that mysticism and philosophy were the keys to knowledge, and that special visions from angels were a key part of truth. This, as Paul states clearly, is not true.

Third, Paul notes mystical visions. Interestingly, visions themselves are not really what Paul refutes here. Paul personally experienced visions. Rather, he seems to be rejecting the use of visions as a way to attract attention to one’s self. Or, as a way to claim special knowledge, hence the reference to details.

Fourth, Paul noted those who let their deceptive arguments and personal visions go to their heads. Pride was at the root of those who promoted mystical or ascetic teachings. In fact, all four of these errors require a certain level of egotism; they all give the mystic, or the ascetic, or the guru a reason to claim that they are better than others as a result of their personal ability. That, however, is not the Christian way.

Verse 19. and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.

Here Paul transitions to a word picture of the human body. The collection of all Christian believers is what the Bible refers to as the church. If that church is imagined as a physical body, then Christ is the Head. Those who Paul refers to as “puffed up” (Colossians 2:18) are not connected to the Head—they are not part of the actual body with Christ. These false teachers think they can grow spiritually when they are separated from Jesus. This is as impossible as a part of the body growing or developing when totally severed from the head!

Paul also reminds the Colossian believers that God provides two important elements to our Christian life. First, God is the one who causes growth. True spiritual progress does not occur through requiring ascetic practices (Colossians 2:18), or rituals (Colossians 2:16), but in following Christ. The more we rely on our own power and ability, the less we allow Christ to use His power in us. This is the problem with mysticism and self-denial: they rely on our own strength, instead of the power of Christ.

Second, Paul explains that our common dependence on Christ produces both growth and unity. Unity must be built upon God and His teachings in order to be genuine. The idea of “knitting together” was also mentioned in Colossians 2:2 in relation to God providing unity in love.

Verse 20. If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations —

Paul begins this verse with a conditional statement, “If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world.” There are two possible meanings for this phrase. First, Paul may have had in mind the underlying assumptions used by the false teachers mentioned throughout this chapter. The idea of “elemental spirits” was also mentioned in Colossians 2:8. There, he was speaking of the fundamental theories of a non-Christian, fallen world. A second option is that “elemental spirits” refer to demonic spirits. Paul clearly spoke about spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12) and may have had this in mind to wrap up the final verses of the chapter.

The context of this statement is the difference between human-centered efforts, versus a Christ-centered reliance on God. For that reason, is seems far more likely that Paul is again referring to worldly thinking and deceptive arguments.

Paul’s point in the second half of this verse is clear. If a person really believes that Christ, not the Law, is the focus of their lives, why would they continue to obsess over human rules and regulations? In other words, Paul questioned why the Colossian believers still acted like unbelievers in some areas. Instead of living by faith in their own ability, they were to walk by faith in Christ (Colossians 2:6). The ascetic teachings or rules of false teachers were not binding upon them and offered no advantage.

Verse 21. “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch”

Colossians 2:21 is a perfect example of the importance of context. Chapter and verse divisions were not part of Bible translations until some 1,500 years after Christ. Taken all by itself, this verse actually seems to suggest the opposite of what Paul is saying. In reality, this statement is an example of the false perspective Paul is condemning. He is giving an illustration of the worldly attitude he wants Christians to avoid. In verse 20, Paul spoke of human rules and regulations; this verse gives a generic summary of those rules.

Since Paul mentions “touching” and “handling” separately, “touch” might also be a reference to lighting fires, since the Greek word for “touch” was used to refer to this practice. This may have a connection to spiritual practices, or using certain objects. “Handling” seems to be a specific reference to the Mosaic law. Jewish laws held that physically contacting certain items would render a person ceremonially unclean.

Also, many religious traditions place restrictions on what a person can or cannot eat. The Mosaic law held a variety of dietary laws, yet Paul noted, “Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean” (Romans 14:20). Christians were not bound to the food laws of the Mosaic law or other religious teachings.

In context, the intent of Paul’s words is clear. Christians should not feel obligated to follow the rules and regulations of Judaism in order to please God.

Verse 22. (referring to things that all perish as they are used) — according to human precepts and teachings?

The first part of this verse continues the thought Paul began in verse 21. There, he labelled generic rules such as “do not touch…” or “do not eat…” as human regulations. Paul’s point here is that the foods or other items false teachers treat as so important are only temporary. Whether we use them, or avoid them, physical things and human laws are only a shadow of things to come, in contrast with the eternal greatness of Christ (Colossians 2:17).

In addition, these teachings were not based on godly thinking, but on deceptive human assumptions. This is very similar to the warning Paul gave in Colossians 2:8 against being tricked by false arguments. While the Torah was truly given by God, the incorrect interpretations of these false teachers were grounded in human authority.

This is a crucial separation: Paul makes a clear distinction between God’s perfect Word and the imperfections of those who teach it. Not all interpretations of the Scriptures are valid, and the error of an interpreter is not the fault of the Bible. This is why Paul would tell Timothy to study to show himself approved (2 Timothy 2:15). The ability to teach God’s truth accurately was a requirement of those who led the local church as elders (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:9).

Verse 23. These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.

Paul concludes his teaching against false teachers by again noting how deceptive their approach is. As in Colossians 2:8 and in verse 22, what seems true turns out to be false, because it is based on bad assumptions. Following restrictive religious rules makes a person look holy to others. These systems demand high levels of dedication and work. Many world religions include leaders who appear very moral and are quite dedicated. And yet, these are merely human rules based on principles which don’t come from Christ Himself.

Paul specifically says these teachings are self-made; they are not actually anything from God. Expectations of the false teachers included ascetic living and harsh treatment of the body. This came through fasting, avoiding certain foods, or other means. This, again, is a major component of Gnosticism, an early heresy plaguing the church. Gnostics relied on mysticism and complex philosophy, as well as insisting that the physical world was entirely evil, so all physical pleasures had to be eliminated.

Paul highlights the futility of these teachings. These attempts at denying the flesh, through human efforts, don’t actually stop sinful desires. To some extent, asceticism and self-denial can be just as much a physical addiction as giving in to gluttony or greed! In both cases, a person is acting under the assumption that what they do with their body, in their own power, is what will make them happy.

In contrast, the Bible teaches that believers are given forgiveness of sin only through Christ. Further, even believers continue to struggle with sin (Romans 7:14–20), requiring the power of God’s Spirit to overcome temptation.

End of Chapter 2.

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