READ Colossians 2:13-15

Christ vs. Man’s Idea of Sin, the Law, and Demons

This morning we find three basic ideas about man and the world in which he lives. These verses clearly demonstrate how God’s work through Christ acts in stark contrast with the views and ideas of most people. People outside of Christ have formed unbiblical ideas regarding sin and death, the law, and evil influences in our world.

Notice:

1. MAN’S SIN AND CHRIST PROVISION – vs. 13

“And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath He quickened together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses.”

Man’s condition outside of Christ is one devoid of hope. Man is born spiritually dead because of sin, and his heart is hardened towards God and things eternal. Through Christ however, God deals with our sin problem and brings us to live, binding us together with His Son, the Lord Jesus. When man comes to Christ, all his sinful trespasses are forgiven.

2. THE LAW AND THE BLOTTING OUT OF ORDINANCES – vs. 14

“Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to His cross.”

It is impossible for man to keep the law, and every time it is violated through sin, we have, as it were, another citation written against us. Only God knows how many times each of us have sinned against Him. So, it is not by works of righteousness which we have done that we have a right standing with God. Rather all our sins are blotted out by the death of Jesus on the cross. Our accusations are nailed to HIS cross voiding our sins.

3. GOD’S POWER OVER DEMONIC INFLUENCE – vs. 15

“And having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.”

Often, people think that demons are equally powerful to God, which is not the case. Demonic beings are more powerful than humans, but not more powerful than God. Jesus Christ, through His death and resurrection, has defeated the powers of hell and has literally disarmed them. Jesus has openly demonstrated His victory over Satan through His resurrection and ascension into Heaven.

We can certainly rejoice in Christ’s victory over sin, the law, and demons. We serve a God who is both loving and mighty!

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1. What kinds of things do unsaved people try to do to erase their guilty consciences?  What do you do to get relief from the guilt you carry?  In what ways does this verse help you to deal with your sin?

2. What does verse 14 say about your spiritual condition apart from Christ?

3.  Have you thanked Christ for nailing the legal charges against you to His cross?  How can you praise Him for what He did for you?

4. In what ways has Satan's power over your life been broken by Christ?