“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.”
Colossians 2:8
Paul issued stern warnings to his Colossian and Philippian friends, citing the danger of being sidetracked by human philosophy and false teaching. He doesn’t mince words when he says, “Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil” (Philippians 3:2). Since dogs in Bible times were not lovable house pets, but scavengers of the city who created havoc wherever they went, Paul was being candid.
And what a timely word this is for the Church now. We too must hold tightly to the solid biblical teaching that is our foundation. Paul says “watch out” because the devil wants to destroy our foundation, our faith, and God’s truth. Think of all the ways we see the Church being undermined, biblical truth being reworked and misused, and standards for holy living being discarded as narrow-minded.
Paul was thankful to know how orderly the Colossian believers were and how firm their faith was in Christ (see 2:5). His words give a military image of sorts, like an army firm and immovable in formation; no enemy can penetrate. This is God’s desire for us!
And what a timely word this is for the Church now. We too must hold tightly to the solid biblical teaching that is our foundation. Paul says “watch out” because the devil wants to destroy our foundation, our faith, and God’s truth. Think of all the ways we see the Church being undermined, biblical truth being reworked and misused, and standards for holy living being discarded as narrow-minded.
Paul was thankful to know how orderly the Colossian believers were and how firm their faith was in Christ (see 2:5). His words give a military image of sorts, like an army firm and immovable in formation; no enemy can penetrate. This is God’s desire for us!
Scripture Focus
Colossians 2:6-8; Philippians 3:1-10
Insight
To keep from falling prey to deception, remain anchored in Christ and keep Him alone on the throne of your life.
Bible In A Year
- Lamentations 3
- Psalm 129
- 2 Corinthians 11
