REJECTING MAN-MADE APPROACHES TO GOD
READ Colossians 2:20-23
Paul concludes this chapter with a “wherefore”. Believers are in fact dead with Christ from the influences of the world and its counterfeit religion and philosophies. “Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances.”
Verses 21-23 give three strong criticisms against worldly philosophy or man-made approaches to God.
1. Man-made approaches enslave and subject people to the rules and the teachings of men – vs. 20-22
“…why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, 21(Touch not; taste not, handle not; 22Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?”
2. Man-made approaches are based upon the works and efforts of men – vs. 23
Very simply, the most that man can come up with in saving himself is a religion of works which is nothing more than a religion of pride. The Bible proclaims that salvation is “Not of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:9).
3. Man-made approaches profess humility before the world, but the humility is false – vs. 23
The only true humility is to confess our total inadequacy and our total depravity. Man is totally dependent upon God to save Him.
Have you enslaved yourself to man-made approaches to God or are you coming to God the Bible way – “For by grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).
Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott
MEDITATIONS
1. Can any combination of man-made approaches gain us salvation or eternal life?
2. What advantages are offered to the Christian believer according to verse 20?
3. What makes some people want to please God with their own works and efforts?
4. What is your greatest talent or ability? What must you do in your heart to ensure that God receives the credit in your life?
5. What does true humility focus on? What things can you do to sharpen your focus on Christ instead of self?