By Robert Olsen, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Christian Studies, University of Mobile
Colossians 2:4–15
A major issue confronting the Colossian church was the presence of false teachers trying to lead believers astray. That remains is a problem for the Church.
Christians are bombarded by arguments that come from inside and outside the Church. Many cults have sprung up from well-meaning small groups within congregations, where a charismatic leader begins to focus on something other than the gospel.
In addition, from outside the Church there is always a threat from other religions, especially Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses, but also from culture itself. Many Christians today believe things that permeate the culture but are antithetical to the gospel. Thus, it is imperative that we remain rooted in the Truth.
Continue (4–7)
How did Paul encourage the Colossians? He entreated them to continue in the teaching they’d had from the beginning. Instead of putting stock in new teaching, the Colossians were to cling to what was handed down to them. This wisdom applies to us as well — it would be foolish for younger Christians to dismiss the teaching of godly men and women who invested in their lives.
When we dismiss the wisdom of those who have come before us, we take a great risk, opening ourselves up to worldly arguments that may seem good, but are poison, altering the gospel.
Be careful (8–10)
Paul also warns the Colossians not to buy into philosophies being pressed upon them by false teachers who deemphasized the importance and validity of Christ alone. The gospel is rooted in a salvation that comes by grace through faith — not philosophy or knowledge. This is why the gospel is good news for the illiterate orphan as well as the most educated person in the world. The gospel is good news for all because it depends upon God’s faithfulness to us, not our ability to reach God; and God meets us in Jesus, who became man for us.
One of the core teachings of the Bible is Jesus is both human and God — one of the most attacked teachings of Christianity. Paul doubles down on this, reminding the Colossians of Jesus’ divinity. Because Jesus is God, we can trust all He says, believing His words over and against those who seek to undermine His truth.
Remember (11–15)
Christian cults add something to the gospel. Instead of focusing on Christ alone for salvation, they require something more, adding works or other beliefs. A common idea in the early Church was that believers needed to be circumcised, following the Old Testament command to the Jews. Paul informs the Colossians that the circumcision they received was spiritual, a circumcision of the heart, a spiritual transformation from death to life — because salvation does not require any physical action on our part. While the idea of circumcision being necessary for salvation is not prevalent today, the idea that baptism is a requirement for salvation is common. Paul points out that baptism demonstrates a solidarity with Christ, representing our death to self and being made alive in Christ. Baptism is not what saves us.
Just like Paul, we need to emphasize the exclusivity of the gospel, teaching it clearly to our congregations, Sunday Schools and families, and holding it high against all other philosophies, religions and cults. We must be rooted and grounded in the faith so we can present the gospel clearly and bring hope to those around us.
Believing in something aside from Christ is a miserable approach to life. As believers we can rest in the completeness of the gospel (Matt. 11:28–30) so we can live in joy and abundant life. This helps us show the world the joy of what it means to be a Christian, not trudging along trying to earn our salvation, but joyfully pleasing God out of a genuine love for Him because of the grace He has given us in Christ.
This apologetic is one the world needs to see in these dark times to provide hope for a lost and dying world.
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