The second and third chapters of Colossians serve to warn us of the danger of departing from Christ and His will for man. Paul states that in the “knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and Son” are “hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (2:2-3).
Does that mean the Bible contains all truth? No. But it does contain all the truth that pertains “to life and godliness” (cf. 2 Peter 1:2-4). As Paul wrote, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Truth is truth. Divine truth is certain. So, when others proclaim what they claim to be true, but it contradicts what is contained in God’s word, we know it to be wrong. It may seem to be reasonable or compelling, but it is wrong. This is why Paul gives his warning in our text.
The first reason given why some depart from the truth found in Christ is human philosophy. “Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words” (2:4). Paul writes, “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ” (2:8).
If a politician suggests a seemingly plausible solution to a societal problem, but his suggestion contradicts God’s teaching on moral or authority issues, the solution is flawed. If a scientist proposes a hypothesis that directly contradicts what the Bible teaches, his hypothesis is untrue. If a psychiatrist excuses sin, and/or claims that a person is not responsible for his own actions, the psychiatrist is guilty of leading his patient astray. Human philosophy is a driving factor in a secular society. Its danger to the child of God can not be overstated.
The second reason some depart from the truth is religious tradition. Religious people can be guilty of substituting their own beliefs for God’s will. They can even be guilty of binding them on others. Paul writes, “So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ” (2:16-17). He continues, “These things have an appearance of wisdom in self-imposed religion, false humility, and neglect of the body, but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh” (2:23).
Christ’s will is beneficial to man. The doctrines of men bring no real help when one is striving to serve God and resist the devil.
The final reason some depart from the truth is that they are enticed by the flesh. Paul writes, “Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth…” (3:5). Some religious people minimize the damage done by immorality. The secular world actually rejoices in and celebrates what God condemns. The Christian is to keep himself pure! “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things agove, not on things of the earth” (3:1-2).
Whether human philosophy, self-imposed religion or the lust of the flesh, Christians are vulnerable to the siren call of ungodly men. Remember, “…you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God” (3:3). As the “elect of God” (cf. 3:12), we must trust in Christ and His will for us.
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