See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. – Colossians 2:8
Recently, the persecutions of Christians in Nigeria have become more frequent and extensive. This serves as a reminder to fellow believers around the world to pray for these saints and to mourn with those who have experienced the loss of their families, their churches, and any sense of calm or peace in their homeland. You do not know them, but those who are one in Christ should lift up their brothers and sisters in prayer.
When Paul sent a letter to the Colossians, he wrote as one who had never met them. The church was established when Epaphras, who had heard the Gospel preached by Paul in Ephesus, took the Good News back to his hometown. Paul now heard that false teachers were in their midst teaching philosophies contrary to Christ, deceiving them with man-made regulations. His concern as a fellow Christian drew him to write of the totality of Christ in this letter. Nothing and no one else is needed. In Jesus, the hope of heaven resides.
Paul’s letter contains some of the most Christ-centered writing you will find. In the first chapter alone, Jesus is identified as the image of the invisible God, Creator of all things, the Head of the Church, and Redeemer for all (Colossians 1:9-18). In Christ “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3). The truth in Christ is sufficient.
Today, deceptions come in all forms. Reject anything contrary to God’s Holy Word. Know the truth. Then pray for leaders of this nation who either waiver in their belief or have none at all, that they may come to rely wholly on the totality of Christ.
Today’s Verse: Colossians 2:8
See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Romans 16:17-20, 25-27
17 I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. 18 For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. 19 For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil. 20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
25 Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages 26 but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith— 27 to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
