Through the Bible: ColossiansSample

You’re Set Free Already

If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.

Colossians 2:20-21, 23 (ESV)

My school principal once said something along these lines – the best school rule is to not have one at all, otherwise, you’ll start having people trying to do the bare minimum to meet the rules. In the back of everyone’s mind you know they’re thinking about how they can push the limits.

As Christ followers, would we at times impose human precepts and teachings on ourselves or others?While rules put certain boundaries on how someone should behave it can never change the heart from outside-in. Only through Christ who loved us can we become more than conquerors.

Prayer

Jesus, we thank You that if anyone is in You, they are a new creation. We have been set free from the power of sin; no longer do we need to rely on external rules to guide our behaviour. Enable us to see the ridiculously overwhelming love that You have for us, that we can respond in worship in spirit and in truth and obey Your teachings that bring life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.