| This week we focus on the study of Colossians Chapter two. Paul wrote this letter to the people of Colosse to combat errors in the church and to show that believers have everything they need in Christ. I will be sharing with you some selected notes from the Life Application Study Bible (NLT). Enjoy SCRIPTURE TEXT: “These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, pious self-denial, and severe bodily discipline. But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires.” –Colossians 2 : 23(NLT) We can guard against man-made religions by asking these questions about any religious group:Does it stress man-made rules and taboos rather than God’s grace?Does it foster a critical spIrit toward others, or does it exercise discipline discreetly and lovingly?Does it stress formulas, secret knowledge, or special visions more than the Word of God?Does it elevate self-righteousness, honoring those who keep the rules, rather than elevating Christ?Does it neglect Christ’s universal church , claiming to be an elite group?Does it teach humiliation of the body as a means to spiritual growth rather than focus on the growth of the whole person?Does it disregard the family rather than hold it in high regard as the Bible doesTo the Colossians, the discipline demanded by the false teachers seemed good, and legalism still attracts many people today. Following a long list of religious rules requires strong self-discipline and can make a person appear moral, but religious rules cannot change a person’s heart. Only the Holy Spirit can do that. |
STAY BLESSED
