1

Exegesis:

Colossians 2:1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have on your behalf, and

for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen my face,

1) “Want”: the present active indicative of the verb, qe,lw- THELO, “to wish, to desire ,

to want.”

2) “To know:” the perfect active infinitive of the verb, oi=da- OIDA, “to have

information about, to know.”

3) “How great”: the singular adjective, h`li,koj- HELIKOS, “how great.”

4) “Struggle”: the singular noun, avgw,n- AGON, “a fight, a struggle.” Occurs 6x in N.T.

5) “I have”: the present active indicative of the verb, e;cw- ECHO, “to have.” Translate “I

continue to have.”

6) “On your behalf”: the preposition, upe.r- HUPER, “on behalf of, for the sake of” + the

ablative 2nd

person plural pronoun, u`mw/n- HUMON, “you.”

7) “Those who are at Laodicea”: the definite article, tw/n- TON, “those (used as

pronoun.”+ the preposition, evn- EN, “in, at” + the singular noun, Laodikei,a-

LAODIKEIA, “Laodicea.”

8) “All those”: the relative plural pronoun, o[soj- HOSOS, “as many as, all those.”

9) “Not…Seen”: the negative particle, ouv- OU, “no, not.” + the perfect active indicative

verb, o`ra,w- HORAO, “to perceive by eye, catch sight of, to see.”

10) “My face”: the articular singular noun, pro,swpon- PROSOPON, “face” + the genitive

1st person singular pronoun, mou- MOU, “of me, my.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:1 “For I want you to know how great a struggle I continue to have on your

behalf, and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen

my face”

2

Colossians 2:1 “For I want you to know how great a struggle I continue to have on your

behalf, and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen

my face”

Analysis of vs. 1:

1) At the end of chapter 1 Paul emphasizes the overall purpose of his ministry. Namely

to bring “every man” to spiritual maturity.

2) We have already seen in 1:29 that he “continued to toil” and was “striving earnestly”

in his ministry to achieve this goal.

3) However, he begins chapter 2 by stating a personal wish to the Colossians.

4) He wishes them to know that he is engaged in a “struggle” on their behalf.

5) The noun “struggle” (avgw,n- AGON) denotes a fight or struggle against opposition

(Phil. 1:30, 1 Thess. 2:2, 1 Tim. 6:12, Heb. 12:1).

6) In fact, “striving earnestly” (avgwni,zomai- AGONIZOMAI) in 1:29 is the related verb

(i.e. cognate).

7) Paul‟s struggles were not minimal or negligible.

8) In our verse, Paul states that his struggle is “great.”

a) The adjective “great” (h`li,koj- HELIKOS) indicates that his struggle was

extensive and severe (cp. 2 Cor. 11:23 cp. 2 Cor. 1:8).

b) In Classical Greek, the meaning was “extraordinarily great.”

9) As he was in prison, we know the great “struggle” was spiritual not physical. How

did Paul “struggle” on their behalf?

a) He experienced daily pressure in his care for the all the churches (cp. 2 Cor.

11:28).

i) The “pressure” Paul experienced was not a mental attitude of worry.

ii) Rather, “pressure” (evpi,stasij- EPISTASIS) refers to his responsibilities to the

other churches in his canon.

iii) He was engaged in intense thought in how to best fulfill his responsibilities to

these individual churches (e.g. the refutation of the heretics in Colossae).

b) Primarily, the apostle engaged in a great struggle on their behalf through prayer.

i) General spiritual well-being (Col. 1:3).

ii) He prayed that they might be filled with sound doctrine, the correct

knowledge of God‟s will (Col. 1:9 cp. the struggle of Epaphras, Col. 4:12).

iii) Once again, we see the fundamental importance of prayer (cp. Eph. 6:18, Col.

4:2-3).

10) In addition to the Colossians, Paul engages in this great struggle on behalf of the

believers in Laodicea and all those who had never seen him (e.g. Hierapolis- 13 mi.,

Col.4:13, 16).

1

Exegesis:

Colossians 2:2 “that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love,

and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding,

resulting in a true knowledge of God's mystery, that is, Christ Himself”

1) “That”: the conjunction, i[na- HINA, “that, in order that.” Translate “in order that.”

2) “Hearts”: the articular plural noun, kardi,a- KARDIA, “(lit.) heart, (fig.) the heart as

the seat of physical, spiritual, and mental life.

3) “Encouraged”: the aorist passive subjunctive verb, parakale,w- PARAKALEO, “to

call to one‟s side, to comfort, to encourage.” A compound verb: para,- PARA, “by,

beside” + kale,w- KALEO, “to call.” Translate “might be encouraged.”

4) “Knit together”: the aorist passive participle of the verb, sumbiba,zw-SUMBIBADZO,

“to hold together, to unite.” Translate “having been united.”

5) “Love”: the singular noun, avga,ph- AGAPE, “affection, good will, love.”

6) “Attaining”: The term is not present in the Greek text. Omit in translation.

7) “Wealth”: the singular noun, plou/toj- PLOUTOS, “riches, wealth.”

8) “Full assurance”: the singular noun, plhrofori,a-PLEROPHORIA, “a state of

complete certainty, full assurance.”

9) “Understanding”: the singular noun, su,nesij- SUNESIS, “intelligence,

understanding.”

10) “Resulting”: The term is not present in the Greek text. Omit in translation.

11) “True knowledge”: the singular noun, evpi,gnwsij-EPIGNOSIS “knowledge, correct,

precise or full knowledge.” Translate “full knowledge.”

12) “God‟s mystery”: the articular singular noun, musth,rion- MUSTERION, “secret,

mystery” + the articular genitive masculine singular noun, qeo,j- THEOS, “God.”

13) “That is…Himself”: The terms are not present in the Greek text. Omit in translation.

14) “Christ”: the singular masculine noun, Cristo,j- CHRISTOS, “Christ.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:2 “in order that their hearts might be encouraged, having been united in

love, and to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, to a full

knowledge of God's mystery, Christ”

2

Colossians 2:2 “in order that their hearts might be encouraged, having been united in

love and to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, to a full

knowledge of God's mystery, Christ”

Analysis of vs. 2:

1) Paul informed the Colossians of his great struggle on their behalf in vs. 1.

2) In our verse, he indicates that the purpose for this disclosure is to encourage them.

3) Paul‟s encouragement was designed to provide them some relief from their battles

with the heretics. Indeed this was the primary purpose for the writing of this epistle.

a) The apostle had an intense concern for their spiritual welfare in spite of never

having seen them. This fact alone should have provided encouragement or

comfort to the Colossians, Laodiceans, etc.

b) The verb, "encouraged” (parakale,w- PARAKALEO) is in the subjunctive mood

which indicates potential.

c) In other words, his audience might or might not be comforted by his words. They

could choose to be comforted by Divine viewpoint in this epistle or not.

Individual volition is the key.

4) The encouragement and comfort Paul provided was according to sound doctrine and

not based on the current philosophy of the day (Col. 2:8 cp. Gal. 4:3, Col. 2:20).

5) Sound doctrine provides real encouragement. Any other source (e.g. psychology,

pursuit of pleasure, details, etc.) is superficial and ultimately will not provide real

consolation (cp. Rom. 15:4, 1 Thess. 3:2, Heb. 6:18).

6) Most, if not all, “systems” of comfort do NOT recognize the ultimate source of

comfort, God (Rom. 15:5, 2 Cor. 1:3 cp. Psa.119:82, Isa. 49:13).

a) Many of these systems will promote human solutions for human problems. The

inner strength and resources of the individual is emphasized.

b) Instead the adjusted believer recognizes that our human problems require

supernatural solutions (e.g. the filling of God the Holy Spirit, etc.). In addition,

the believer should recognize that God will pursue the adjusted believer with

comfort (2 Cor. 1:4).

c) "Comforter"(para,klhtoj- PARAKLETOS) is a title for the Holy Spirit

(John.14:16, 26; 15:26, cp. Act.9:31).

7) Encouragement or comfort is a royal family imperative.

a) Believers are commanded to comfort one another (1 Thess. 4:18; 5:11).

b) We are to receive comfort (2 Cor.13:11- “Be comforted” from whatever the

source: the Pastor-Teacher, Bible Doctrine, the gift of encouragement,

circumstances, +V friends, etc.).

c) In our verse, Paul is fulfilling the command to give comfort.

8) Specific examples of encouragement or comfort in our phase 2 include:

a) Acceptance of Divine viewpoint (Act.15:31).

b) The details of prophecy (1 Cor.14:3, 31).

c) The testing and deliverance of another believer (2 Cor.1:6, 8-11).

d) Deliverance from death (Act.20:12).

e) Fellowship with adjusted believers (Rom.1:12).

3

f) Divine good production (2 Thess.2:17).

9) In contrast to the adjusted believer, there is no encouragement or comfort for the

believer in reversionism (cp. Prov. 1:20-33; 29:1)

10) Our term “hearts” (kardi,a- KARDIA) doesn‟t refer to the literal organ of the body.

11) Instead, “hearts” refers to the mental attitude or thinking (cp. Rom. 16:18, 1 Cor. 2:9).

a) In some contexts, it refers to the thinking of –V (Matt. 12:34, Rom. 1:21, Eph.

4:18)

b) The mental attitude is the object or target of encouragement (Eph. 6:22, Col. 4:8,

cp. James 5:8).

12) Hence, in vs. 2, Paul is seeking to encourage them in their thinking.

13) Furthermore, Paul points out that their “hearts” (i.e. mental attitude/thinking) have

been “united in love.”

a) Earlier in the epistle, Paul had already commended the Colossians on their

continued love (avga,ph- AGAPE) for other believers (Col. 1:4).

b) “Love” (avga,ph- AGAPE), which consists of the FGHS with the appropriate

application towards another believer, produces unity. This is essential for the local

church (Gal. 5:22. cp. Col. 3:12-14; also Rom.12:10-13, 2 Cor 2:8, Eph. 4:2-3,

15-16, 1 Thess. 3:12). Further examples of how believers may demonstrate love:

i) Avoid phoniness and hypocrisy (Rom. 12:9; 1 Pet. 1:22).

ii) Avoid gossip and backbiting (Gal. 5:14-15).

iii) Restore the believer who recovers from reversionism in a spirit of gentleness

(Gal. 6:1).

iv) Show hospitality (Heb. 13:1-2).

v) Make sacrifices for each other (James 2:15-16, 1 John 3:16-18).

c) Collectively they are united as members of the same spiritual body (cp. Col.

2:19).

4

14) The last half of vs. 2 alludes to the purpose or goal of Paul‟s encouragement.

15) The Colossian‟s are advised that “wealth” (plou/toj- PLOUTOS) is derived from “the

full assurance of understanding.”

a) “Full assurance” refers to the complete confidence that come from the

comprehension or “understanding” (su,nesij- SUNESIS) of sound doctrine.

b) The “full assurance” is not a result of an intellectual exercise, but rather it is

developed through the consistent intake and application of Divine viewpoint over

the course of a believer‟s life.

c) Absolute confidence in the plan and policies of God is a result of spiritual

understanding (cp. Josh. 14:6-13; 15:13-14, Dan 3:13-18).

d) “All the wealth” refers to spiritual not financial riches.

e) This “wealth” stems from the absolute confidence in the plan and policies of God.

Some of the riches include:

i) Happiness (Psa. 4:7).

ii) Peace (Psa. 4:8).

iii) Discernment (cp 1 Kings 3:6-13; 4:29; Psa. 19:7).

f) In contrast, those who have no confidence in sound doctrine are unstable in their

thinking (Eph. 4:14, James 1:6-8).

16) Paul desires that the Colossians reach a “full knowledge of God‟s mystery, Christ”

a) Christ is a mystery that is revealed to all who want the truth (cp. Col. 1:26-27).

b) Earlier in the epistle, Paul wanted them to be filled with the “full knowledge”

(evpi,gnwsij-EPIGNOSIS) of God‟s will (Col. 1:9).

c) Here, the objective is to gain a complete or full knowledge of Christ.

d) The full knowledge includes His person, work, and thinking (i.e. “the mind of

Christ” which is sound doctrine- 1 Cor.2:16).

e) It is of primary importance in reaching spiritual maturity (Eph. 4:13).

1

Exegesis:

Colossians 2:3 “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”

1) “In whom”: the preposition, evn- EN, “in” + the locative masculine singular pronoun,

o[j- HOS, “what, which, who.”

2) “Hidden”: the masculine plural adjective, avpo,krufoj- APOKRUPHOS, “concealed,

hidden.” Paul used the cognate verb, avpokru,ptw- APOKRUPTO, “to hide” in 1:26.

3) “All”: the masculine plural adjective, pa/j- PAS, “all, every.”

4) “Treasures”: the articular masculine plural noun, qhsauro,j-THESAUROS, “a

storeroom, repository, treasury or that which is stored up, a treasure.”

5) “Wisdom”: the articular feminine singular noun, sofi,a- SOPHIA, “the capacity to

understand and, as a result, to act wisely, wisdom.”

6) “Knowledge”: the articular feminine singular noun, gnw/sij-GNOSIS, “the possession

of information, knowledge.”

*Revisons to the standard translation are unnecessary.

2

Colossians 2:3 “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”

Analysis of vs. 3:

1) “In whom” refers to Christ in vs.2

2) As the Godman, Christ is the embodiment of all Divine wisdom and knowledge (cp.

Col.1:19; 2:9, cp. 1 Cor 1:24).

3) The fact that Christ possesses the entire content of knowledge (i.e. omniscience)

further demonstrates the His pre-eminence in all things (cp. Col. 1:15-20).

4) These “treasures” are hidden only to those who have no interest in the plan of

salvation (2 Cor. 4:3-4).

5) On the other hand, these “treasures” are freely made available to all those who

exercise saving faith (cp. Luke 12:33, Col. 3:24).

6) Additionally, the “treasure” of a believer will increase based on good works done in

fellowship (1 Tim 6:18-19)

7) Paul‟s intent is to provide a stark contrast between the mystery cults and Christ, the

mystery.

8) A comparison/contrast between the mystery cults and Christ, the Mystery.

Pagan mystery cult Christ, the Mystery

1. Knowledge: Incomplete knowledge (cp.

1 Cor. 1:20).

2. Doctrines: Cosmic knowledge,

polytheistic (Acts 17:23).

3. Popularity: Many followers (e.g. public

festivals).

4. Initiates: Exclusive, a select few (e.g.

citizens)

5. Membership rite: Individual initiation

frequently involving animal sacrifice,

purification ceremonies, eating raw flesh,

etc.

6. Priesthood: Hereditary

7. Purpose: To secure good “fortune” in

this life and a blessed afterlife.

1. Knowledge: Full knowledge, “all the

treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”

(Rom. 11:33, Col 1:22)

2. Doctrines: Divine viewpoint,

monotheistic

3. Popularity: Many followers- but few

when compared with their pagan

counterparts.

4. Initiates: Available to all (1 Tim. 2:4)

5. Membership rite: Faith in Christ

6. Priesthood: Universal, based on saving

faith (Rev. 1:6)

7. Purpose: Eternal salvation, attainment of

spiritual maturity to secure blessings in

time and eternity

9) The omniscience of the Godman precludes the possibility of any secret knowledge.

10) Furthermore, sound doctrine or the mind of Christ is all sufficient to confront any

circumstance(s) in the world (cp. 2 Tim 3:16-17).

11) Of course sound doctrine must be applied to be effective (James 1:25).

12) It is nonsensical to doubt the sufficiency of Divine viewpoint when one does not

exercise diligence in application…or even intake (cp. Heb 4:11-12).

13) We are inherently weak due to our OSN but we have Divine help to overcome our

weaknesses (Rom. 8.26).

1

Exegesis:

Colossians 2:4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with persuasive argument.

1) “I say”: the present active indicative verb, le,gw- LEGO, “to tell, to say.” Translate

“I‟m saying.”

2) “In order that”: the conjunction, i[na- HINA, “that, in order that.”

3) “No one”: the masculine singular pronoun, mhdei,j- MEDEIS, “none, nobody, no

one.”

4) “May delude”: the present subjunctive verb, paralogi,zomai- PARALOGIZOMAI, “to

defraud, to delude or deceive.” Occurs 2x (James 1:22).

5) “With”: the preposition, evn- EN, “in, by.” Translate “by.”

6) “Persuasive argument”: the feminine singular noun, piqanologi,a- PITHANOLOGIA,

“persuasive speech or argument.” Occurs 1x.

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:4 I‟m saying this in order that no one may delude you by persuasive

argument.

2

Colossians 2:4 I‟m saying this in order that no one may delude you by persuasive

argument.

Analysis of vs. 4:

1) Paul indicates that the facts that he has previously discussed in vss. 2-3 are designed

to protect the Colossians. Of primary importance:

a) The objective for the Colossians was to reach a full knowledge of Christ, God‟s

mystery.

b) Christ is the embodiment of all wisdom and knowledge.

2) These facts were in opposition to the pagan religion that was prevalent in Asia Minor

and throughout the Greco-Roman world.

3) In particular, Paul desires to protect them from the persuasive arguments of the

heretics.

4) The pronoun “no one” (mhdei,j- MEDEIS) is used in a general all-inclusive sense.

a) Paul does not identify a specific heretic or false teacher (cp.1 Tim. 1:20).

b) Instead this refers to anyone who advances false doctrine(s).

5) In our verse, for the first time in the epistle, Paul provides an insight into the actual

methodology of the heretics.

a) The objective was to deceive or “delude” (paralogi,zomai- PARALOGIZOMAI)

the Colossian believers.

i) The verb “delude” is to deceive by false reasoning or logic.

ii) The term may be used of self deception. James 1:22 “But prove yourselves

doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves.”

iii) This reasoning is not based on the principles of sound doctrine taught by Paul,

Epaphras, etc (cp. Col. 1:7).

iv) Rather the false reasoning is based on faulty premises that included the denial

of the preeminence of Christ, dietary restrictions, the worship of angels, etc

(Col. 1:15-20; 2:16, 18).

b) The heretics employed “persuasive argument” (piqanologi,a- PITHANOLOGIA)

or speech in their attempt to deceive the Colossian believers.

i) The noun refers to the use of persuasive speech or probable arguments.

ii) The speaking or discourse is calculated and designed to persuade. It is a type

of sales pitch.

c) Furthermore, the heretics incorporated elements of Divine viewpoint into their

argumentation (e.g. the existence of angels).

6) However, take note of Paul‟s approach to their arguments.

7) His counter argument is based entirely on Divine viewpoint. He followed the example

of Christ (Luke 4:3-12)

a) The validity of any argument must be tested against the realm of sound doctrine

(cp. Acts 17:11).

b) In fact, Divine viewpoint is the ultimate criterion by which the believer must

evaluate all points of view and refute the arguments of those who promote false

doctrines. This is the essence of Biblical discernment (cp. Rev. 2:2).

3

c) Biblical discernment is the ability to abandon human viewpoint and think

according to sound doctrine (Isa. 55:7-9).

d) In addition, proper discernment is the ability to see life as God sees it and

therefore become an imitator of God and of others who imitate God (1 Cor. 4:15;

11:1, Eph. 5:1, 1 Thess 1:6; 2:14, Heb. 6:12).

e) If a believer evaluates arguments based on emotion, philosophy, experience, etc.,

that believer will be led astray. He will be unable to detect fallacious reasoning.

8) Paul did argue persuasively in his ministry. However, his argument was not based on

faulty reasoning nor was it designed to delude his audience. He endeavored to

convince through the truth and not through deceit (Acts 18:4 cp. Rom. 9:1, 1 Cor

2:4).

9) It must be recognized that those who deceive are following the plan and policies of

Satan. Be on guard against his doctrines of demons (John 8:44, Rev. 20:8, cp. 2 Cor

2:11, 1 Tim 4:1).

10) As Paul is warning the Colossians so believers today must be on the alert for those

who attempt to deceive through arguments that violate Divine viewpoint. Especially

since we are in the last days, a time of unprecedented deceit and treachery (2 Tim.

3:4).

a) In addition, those who attempt to deceive may often be part of the local church

(Acts 20:29 cp.2 Cor. 11:13-15, Gal. 2:4, 2 Peter 2:1, 3).

b) Do not be deceived by false doctrine no matter how attractive the argument or the

person (Rom. 16:17-18).

i) Paul urges the Romans to “keep your eye” (skope,w-SKOPEO) on them. They

were to pay careful attention to these people.

ii) These types are in a state of factious opposition (dicostasi,a-DIXOSTASIA)

and create stumbling blocks (ska,ndalon-SKANDALON) to sound doctrine.

iii) They are to be turned away from or avoided (evkkli,nw- EKKLINO; cp. 1 Peter

3:11, also Psa. 26:4-7).

iv) Their objective is to convince (i.e. deceive- evxapata,w- EXAPATAO) others of

the legitimacy of their position by plausible speech (crhstologi,a-

CHRESTOLOGIA) and flattery (euvlogi,a-EULOGIA). Cp. 2 Cor 11:3.

11) Some observations regarding deceit:

a) We are commanded not to lie or give false testimony (Exo 20:16, Deut. 5:20,

Prov. 4:24, Luke 18:20, Eph. 4:25).

b) As believers we are not to lie to each other (Col. 3:9).

c) We are blessed when men falsely speak evil of us because of our Savior

(Matt.5:11).

d) Deceit is characteristic of those who harbor mental attitude hatred (Prov. 26:24).

e) Deceit is a characteristic of negative volition (Psa. 10:3-7; 36:1-3; 50:16-19).

f) Those who desire to live a long life will avoid deceit (Psa. 34:12-13).

12) All those who promote human viewpoint through speech or action are not necessarily

motivated by malice. Fear may be the motivating factor (Gal. 2:11-12).

13) A believer must continue to grow in grace and knowledge of sound doctrine in order

for his defense to remain strong (2 Peter 3:18 cp. 1 Cor 16:13, Eph. 6:11).

1

Exegesis:

Colossians 2:5 For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit,

rejoicing to see your good discipline and the stability of your faith in Christ.

1) “For even though”: the conjunction, eiv-EI, “if” + the subordinate conjunction, ga.r-

GAR, “for” + the ascensive conjunction, kai. – KAI, “and, also, even”. This

introduces a 1st class condition which affirms the reality of the condition.

2) “Absent”: the present active indicative verb, a;peimi- APHEIMI, “to be away, to be

absent.”

3) “In body”: the locative articular singular noun, sa,rx- SARX, “flesh, physical body.”

4) “Nevertheless”: the adversative conjunction, avlla,- ALLA, “but, however,

nevertheless.”

5) “In spirit”: the locative articular singular noun, pneu/ma- PNEUMA, “spirit.”

6) “Rejoicing”: the present active participle of the verb, cai,rw- CHAIRO, “to be glad, to

rejoice.”

7) “See”: the present active participle of the verb, ble,pw-BLEPO, “to see.”

8) “Good discipline”: the articular accusative singular noun, ta,xij-TAXIS, “order or a

state of good order, orderliness.” Translate “good order” (Cp. “order” of priesthood,

Heb. 5:10)

9) “Stability”: the articular accusative singular noun, stere,wma-STEROMA, “a state or

condition of firm commitment, firmness, steadfastness.” Translate “steadfastness.”

10) “Faith”: the genitive singular noun, pi,stij- PISTIS, “that which is believed, body of

faith or a state of believing, faith.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:5 For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit,

rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.

2

Colossians 2:5 For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit,

rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.

Analysis of vs. 5:

1) Due to his imprisonment in Rome, Paul was unable to have fellowship with the

Colossians in person.

2) However, he indicates that he is with them “in spirit.”

a) In a figurative sense, this points to Paul‟s mental, emotional, and spiritual concern

for them (cp. 1 Cor. 5:3-4).

b) He was materially absent but immaterially present with them.

c) Although, Paul had never seen the Colossians it is evident from the context that

he possessed a great deal of care and concern for them.

d) After all, he was responsible for the believers in Colossae because of his

“stewardship” from God (Col. 1:25).

3) He was “rejoicing to see” the current spiritual condition of the Colossian believers.

a) Again, our verse makes it evident the Paul possessed happiness or joy (Col. 1:24).

b) The expression of happiness is common throughout his epistles (Rom. 16:19,

Phil.2:18-19, etc.).

c) Paul is not literally able “to see” anything in Colossae. Rather, “to see” refers to

the mental perception that resulted from the report delivered by Epaphras (Col.

1:8 cp. mental perception- Rom. 7:23).

4) The report delivered to Paul was favorable.

5) Overall, the believers in Colossae were in the process of growing spiritually.

6) Paul refers to their “good order” and “steadfastness.”

a) Corporately the believers in Colossae conducted their affairs in “good order

(ta,xij-TAXIS).”

i) The believers were organized and diligent to fulfill their responsibilities in

their local church.

ii) “Good order” is also a military term used to denote an orderly array or body

of soldiers.

iii) They were attentive and persistent in the exercise of their spiritual gifts. (cp. 1

Cor 12:7)

iv) “Good order” is essential for a local church (1 Cor 14:40).

b) In addition, Paul commends them on their “steadfastness” (stere,wma-

STEROMA).

i) They are unchanging and strong in regards to their “faith in Christ.”

ii) They continued to manifest a firm commitment to sound doctrine that began

with saving faith (Col. 1:6).

iii) “Steadfastness” may also be used in a military sense to signify a solid or

cohesive front.

c) In a military sense, a local church that possesses both “good order” and

“steadfastness” in regards to Divine viewpoint will repel all viewpoints that

oppose sound doctrine.

1

Exegesis:

Colossians 2:6 “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him”

1) “As”: the conjunction, w`j- HOS, “as, like.” The conjunction denotes a comparison in

context.

2) “Therefore”: the conjunction, ou=n- OUN, “so, consequently, therefore.”

3) “Received”: the aorist active indicative verb, paralamba,nw- PARALAMBANO, “to

take, to receive.”

4) “Walk”: the present active imperative verb, peripate,w- PERIPATEO, “(lit.) to walk,

(fig.) to behave, to live.” The present imperative is a command and indicates

continuous or repetitive action. Translate, “Continue walking.”

5) “In Him”: the preposition, evn- EN, “in” + the 3rd

person personal pronoun, auvtoj- AUTOS, “Him.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:6 “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so continue

walking in Him”

2

Colossians 2:6 “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so continue

walking in Him”

Analysis of vs. 6:

1) Paul had just commended them for their current “good order” and “steadfastness.”

2) In the beginning of vs. 6, Paul refers back to the point of their saving faith.

a) The verb “received” (paralamba,nw- PARALAMBANO) signifies the process

whereby teachings or doctrines are learned by tradition.

b) In our context, the Colossians “received Christ Jesus the Lord” from Epaphras

(Col. 1:7).

i) “Received” refers to saving faith (cp John 1:11-12, 1 Cor. 15:1).

ii) Put another way, the teachings of sound doctrine were passed down to them

and they believed it. Specifically, the doctrine of salvation (cp. 2 Thess. 3:6).

iii) Christ is the object of their faith.

iv) Paul refers to Christ as “the Lord (ku,rioj- KURIOS) which stresses His

supreme authority (Col. 3:22-24 cp. Eph. 3:11).

3) It is evident that they accepted the Gospel with eagerness and immediately began to

make the maturity adjustment (Col. 1:4, 6).

4) The conjunction “as” (w`j- HOS) denotes a comparison.

5) As the Colossians “received” Christ with eagerness, so with that same eagerness, they

were to “continue walking in Him.”

a) Paul uses the verb “walk” (peripate,w- PERIPATEO) in a figurative sense to refer

to manner of life or behavior.

b) In 1:10 Paul used the same verb in stating his desire for the Colossians to “walk in

a manner that is pleasing to the Lord…”

c) The walk “in Him” is characterized by adherence to the truth of sound doctrine

versus the wisdom of the world. Furthermore, this adherence extends to what we

think, say, and do. Overt compliance alone is not sufficient (cp. Josh. 23:6-11,

Luke 10:27).

d) Also, it is an imperative or command which is to be fulfilled on a continuous

basis.

e) Hence, Paul exhorts the Colossians to continuously live their lives in accordance

with Divine viewpoint. Based on the comparison, this is to be done with

eagerness or zeal (cp.2 Cor. 9:2).

f) This command is equally applicable to us (cp Eph. 2:10, 5:15, Col. 4:5).

6) “In Him” or Christ we have the perfect example to follow. He continuously walked

according His Father‟s will. In fact, He was perfectly obedient even in the face of

perilous and arduous circumstances (John 5:30, 6:38, cp. Matt.16:21, also 1 John 2:6).

1

Exegesis:

Colossians 2:7 “having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and

established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.”

1) “Firmly rooted”: the perfect passive participle of the verb, r`izo,w- RIDZOO, “to be

firmly established, to be rooted.”

2) “Built up”: the present passive participle of the verb, evpoikodome,w- EPOIKODOMEO,

“adding to the foundation of a building, to build on, to build up.”

3) “In Him”: the preposition, evn- EN, “in” + the 3rd

person personal pronoun, auvtoj- AUTOS, “Him.”

4) “Established”: the present passive participle of the verb, bebaio,w- BEBAIOO, “to

confirm, strengthen, to establish.” Translate “being established.”

5) “In your faith”: the articular locative singular noun, pi,stij- PISTIS, “that which is

believed, body of faith or a state of believing, faith.” Translate “in the faith.”

6) “Instructed”: the aorist passive indicative verb, dida,skw- DIDASKO, “to instruct, to

teach.”

7) “Overflowing”: the present active participle of the verb, perisseu,w- PERISSEUO, “to

be in abundance, to overflow, to be outstanding, to excel.”

8) “Gratitude”: the locative feminine singular noun, euvcaristi,a- “the expression of

gratitude, thankfulness, thanksgiving.” Translate “in thanksgiving.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:7 “having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and being

established in the faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing in thanksgiving.”

*See Doctrine of Positional Truth

**See Doctrine of Faith

2

Colossians 2:7 “having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and being

established in the faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing in thanksgiving.”

Analysis of vs. 7:

1) In vs. 6, Paul issued a command to “continue walking” in Christ.

2) In our verse, he utilizes four participles that characterize the Colossian‟s “walk.”

3) The first participle is “firmly rooted” (r`izo,w- RIDZOO).

a) The image created by this term is that of a robust plant that has been firmly rooted

in the soil.

b) In the Greek text this participle is in the perfect tense. The perfect tense calls

attention to an action that was completed in the past but the emphasis is on the

present result or condition. An exact translation in English is awkward.

c) In relation to our verse, the perfect tense signifies that sometime in the past the

believers in Colossae were “firmly rooted…in Him” with the result that they

continued to be “firmly rooted…in Him” in the present.

d) The image corresponds to their past saving faith with the result that they were

permanently placed in a spiritual union with Christ. The perfect tense emphasizes

the present reality of this union.

e) Furthermore, the passive voice of the participle indicates that an outside source

“firmly rooted” the Colossians in Christ.

f) Other passages indicate that God the Father, through the baptism of God the Holy

Spirit, permanently places the believer in union with Christ. This is positional

truth (1 Cor 1:30 cp. 1 Cor. 12:13, Gal. 3:26-28).

4) In the use of the 2nd

and 3rd

participle, “built up” (evpoikodome,w- EPOIKODOMEO)

and “established” (bebaio,w- BEBAIOO) , Paul changes the metaphor and tense.

a) He moves from a plant to a building metaphor and changes from the perfect to the

present tense.

b) “Built up in Him” depicts ongoing spiritual growth in union with Christ.

i) “Built up” refers to the construction of a building that lies upon a foundation.

ii) In a sense, Epaphras laid the foundation when he evangelized the Colossians

(Col. 1:7).

iii) Paul and their p/t continued to build upon the foundation through the teaching

of sound doctrine (cp. 1 Cor. 3:10).

c) “Established in the faith” indicates the process whereby the believer is being

progressively strengthened in regards to the faith, the realm of sound doctrine.

5) In keeping with the metaphor, the p/t in a local church is responsible to build up and

strengthen believers through the communication of Divine viewpoint (1 Cor 3:12 cp.

Acts 20:32, 2 Cor. 13:10, Eph. 4:12).

6) Furthermore, it is the responsibility of every believer to build up and strengthen

themselves in the principles of sound doctrine. This is to be accomplished in the

environment of the local church (Jude 1:20 cp. Heb. 13:9. Also Heb. 10:25).

7) In addition, believers are to build up and encourage one another (Rom. 14:19, 1

Thess. 5:11).

3

8) Paul indicates that the Colossians had been “instructed” (dida,skw- DIDASKO) in the

past regarding this information.

9) The Colossian‟s are also enjoined to be “overflowing in thanksgiving.”

a) “Overflowing” (perisseu,w- PERISSEUO) is the 4th

participle and emphasizes

abundance. The term also contains a nuance of excelling in or being outstanding

in something.

b) Based on their privileged position in Christ and its associated blessings, they

should be very thankful (e.g. forgiveness, reconciliation, Col. 1:13-14, 20).

10) In a like manner, all believers are commanded to continually give thanks (Col. 3:17).

11) In fact, thanksgiving to God is an integral part in the Christian walk of the maturing

believer.

1

Exegesis:

Colossians 2:8 “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty

deception, according1 to the tradition of men, according

2 to the elementary principles of

the world, rather than according3 to Christ.”

1) “See to it”: the present active imperative of the verb, ble,pw- BLEPO, “to see, to

observe;” as a warning: “to beware, watch out.” The present imperative denotes an

action in progress. Translate “Continue watching out.”

2) “No one”: the negative particle, mh,- ME, “no, not” + the indefinite masculine

pronoun, ti.j- TIS, “anyone, anything, someone, something.”

3) [Will be]: the future indicative of the verb, eivmi-EIMI, “to be.” The verb was not

included in the translation. Translate “will be.”

4) “Takes you captive”: the articular present active participle of the verb, sulagwge,w-

SULAGOGEO, “(lit) to carry off or take as captive (fig) to prey on, to take control of,

to lead astray.” Translate “taking you captive.” Occurs 1x.

5) “Philosophy”: the articular feminine singular noun, filosofi,a- PHILOSOPHIA,

“philosophy, love of knowledge, pursuit of wisdom.” Occurs 1x.

6) “Empty deception”: the feminine singular adjective, keno,j- KENOS, “vain, empty” +

the feminine singular noun, avpa,th- APATE, “deception, deceitfulness.”

7) “Tradition”: the articular feminine singular noun, para,dosij- PARADOSIS, “the

content of instruction that has been handed down, teachings, tradition.”

8) “Men”: the articular masculine plural noun, a;nqrwpoj- ANTHROPOS, “human being,

man.”

9) “According to1, 2, & 3

: the preposition, kata,- KATA with the accusative, “in

conformity or accordance with, according to.”

10) “Elementary principles”: the articular neuter plural noun, stoicei/on- STOICHEION,

“basic elements, fundamental teachings, basic principles.”

11) “World”: the articular masculine singular noun, ko,smoj- KOSMOS, “universe,

humanity, world.”

12) “Rather than”: the conjunction, kai- KAI, “and, also, even” + the negative particle,

ouv- OU, “no, not.” Translate “and not.”

13) “Christ”: the masculine singular noun, Cristo,j- CHRISTOS, “Christ.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:8 “Continue watching out that no one will be taking you captive through

philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the

elementary principles of the world, and not according to Christ.”

2

Colossians 2:8 “Continue watching out that no one will be taking you captive through

philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the

elementary principles of the world, and not according to Christ.”

Analysis of vs. 8:

1) In vs. 6, Paul instructed the Colossians to continue walking in Christ after

commending them on their solid spiritual condition.

2) Now he issues a warning to “continue watching out” for anyone who might promote a

system of thinking that is contrary to sound doctrine.

a) The believers in Colossae were to maintain an ongoing vigilance.

b) Paul endeavored to prevent their deception by instructing them in the various

principles of Divine viewpoint (Col. 2:4).

c) “No one” is indefinite so the heretical teaching might be espoused by those from

outside or even by those from within the local church (cp. Acts 20:29-31, 2 Tim.

3:13. Also Job 2:9).

d) This command is equally applicable to believers in local churches today. Romans

16:17-18 “Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause

dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn

away from them. 18

For such men are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their

own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts

of the unsuspecting.” Philippians 3:2 “Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil

workers, beware of the false circumcision.”

3) The aim of the heretic was to take the unwary believer captive (sulagwge,w-

SULAGOGEO) in their way of thinking.

a) The image is that of a prisoner being carried off into captivity.

b) It depicts the believer being carried away from the truth and being enslaved to

false doctrine(s).

c) Believers who forsake or disregard the teaching of sound doctrine are already

carried away in their thinking (cp. 2 Tim. 2:17-18).

d) Watch out for these types and avoid them. Why? Because it is God‟s directive

will for us and we are NOT immune to their influence. In fact the sound doctrine

in our thinking WILL be corrupted (1 Cor. 15:33, 2 Tim. 3:5).

e) Believers in the local church must encourage one another to persevere in sound

doctrine. Hebrews 3:12-13 “Take care, brethren, lest there should be in any one of

you an evil, unbelieving heart, in falling away from the living God. 13

But

encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called "Today," lest any

one of you be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.”

4) Paul states that “philosophy and empty deception” are the means used to lead the

believers in Colossae astray.

a) Our term “philosophy” (filosofi,a- PHILOSOPHIA) occurs 1x in the NT and is

used in an unfavorable sense.

b) In a basic sense, “philosophy” refers to a love or pursuit of wisdom. However, in

vs. 8, the noun refers to a way of thought that is based on human wisdom not the

wisdom of Divine viewpoint.

3

c) The Colossian philosophy was a hybrid which contained elements of Judaism,

angelic worship, asceticism, etc (Col. 2:16, 18, 23).

d) “Empty deception” describes beliefs and practices of this philosophy that have the

appearance of wisdom. However, in reality they are devoid of the truth and

therefore, worthless (cp. Col. 1:23).

5) Vs. 8 indicates that the Colossian philosophy was based on “the tradition of men.”

a) “Tradition” (para,dosij- PARADOSIS) indicates teachings or doctrines that are

handed down from generation to generation.

b) The term may be used in a positive of negative sense in the N.T.

i) In a positive sense, “tradition” refers to the handing down of the teachings of

sound doctrine. These teachings are based on God‟s Divine viewpoint (1 Cor.

11:2, 2 Thess 2:15; 3:6 cp. 2 Tim. 3:14-17).

ii) In our verse, it is used in a negative sense. The term refers to teachings which

were based on strictly human tradition (cp. Mark 7:8, 1 Peter 1:18).

6) Paul further describes the philosophy as being based on “the elementary principles of

the world.”

a) In general, “elementary principles” (stoicei/on- STOICHEION) refers to the basic

elements or principles of anything (e.g. grammar: ABC‟s, speech: basic sounds,

etc.). However, in the N.T., the word has a variation of uses. Hence, the meaning

must be derived from the context.

b) The term may refer to the following:

i) The basic elements of the natural world (2 Peter 3:10, 12).

ii) The rudimentary principles of Divine viewpoint (Heb. 5:12).

iii) Humanistic teaching or principles (Gal. 4:3, 9).

c) In our context, “elementary principles” refers to the basic tenets of the Colossian

philosophy. These tenets were based on humanistic principles and not those

taught by Christ.

7) The situation in Colossae emphasizes the necessity of proper discernment in relation

to people and ideas on the part of the believer.

8) The “spiritual” acumen (i.e. the ability to discern) of a believer must be based on the

principles of Bible doctrine, God‟s thinking. The acumen develops as the believer

learns and applies the principles Scripture (Heb. 5:14, cp. Isa. 55:7-9).

1

Exegesis:

Colossians 2:9 “For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form”

1) “For”: the conjunction, o[ti-HOTI, “because, for.”

2) “In Him”: the preposition, evn- EN, “in” + the 3rd

person locative masculine pronoun,

auvto,j- AUTOS, “Him.”

3) “All the fullness”: the singular adjective, pa/j- PAS, “all, every” + the articular

singular noun, plh,rwma- PLEROMA, “that which fills, that which is brought to

fullness or completion, sum total, fullness.”

4) “Deity”: the articular singular noun, qeo,thtoj- THEOTETOS, “divinity, divine nature,

deity.” Occurs 1x in N.T.

5) “Dwells”: the present active verb, katoike,w- KATOIKEO, “to live, reside, dwell.”

Translate “continues to dwell.”

6) “Bodily form”: the adverb, swmatikw/j- SOMATIKOS, “bodily, in bodily form.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:9 “For in Him all the fullness of Deity continues to dwell in bodily form”

2

Colossians 2:9 “For in Him all the fullness of Deity continues to dwell in bodily form”

Analysis of vs. 9:

1) In our verse, Paul points out why the Colossians should beware of anyone who

espoused humanistic philosophies.

2) Simply, Christ is superior to all those who might try to lead them astray.

3) Christ is superior because Deity is united with His perfect humanity (i.e. hypostatic

union). He is the unique God-man.

4) After all compare these philosophers and their faulty views versus the perfection of

Christ and His viewpoint.

5) Also, in 2:3, the Colossians had just been instructed that Christ is the embodiment of

all Divine wisdom and knowledge (cp. 1 Cor.1:24).

6) “In Him” and “bodily form” emphasize the location of Deity in His person.

7) This topic was previously introduced in 1:19.

8) “All the fullness of Deity” demonstrates that He possesses all the undiminished

attributes of Deity.

9) Furthermore, “continues to dwell” (katoike,w- KATOIKEO) denotes that the

hypostatic union is ongoing and permanent even in His resurrection body (cp. Heb.

1:3, Rev. 1:8).

1

Exegesis:

Colossians 2:10 “and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all

rule and authority”

1) “And”: the conjunction, kai- KAI, “and, also, even”

2) “In Him”: the preposition, evn- EN, “in” + the 3rd

person locative masculine pronoun,

auvto,j- AUTOS, “Him.”

3) “You have been made complete”: the present active indicative of the verb, eivmi-EIMI,

“to be” + the perfect passive participle of the verb, plhro,w- PLEROO, ““to fill up, to

complete, to fulfill.” Translate “having been completed.”

4) “Is”: the present active indicative of the verb, eivmi-EIMI, “to be.”

5) “Head”: the articular singular noun, kefalh,- KEPHALE, “(lit.) a head; (fig.) a being

of high status or superior rank, head.”

6) “All”: the singular adjective, pa/j- PAS, “all, every.”

7) “Rule”: the singular noun, avrch,- ARCHE, “power, rule, domain.”

8) “Authority”: the singular noun, evxousi,a- EXOUSIA, “authority, right, power.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:10 “and in Him you have been completed, and He is the head over all rule

and authority”

2

Colossians 2:10 “and in Him you have been completed, and He is the head over all rule

and authority”

Analysis of vs. 10:

1) The conjunction “and” links two distinctive concepts in vss 9 -10.

a) In vs. 9, Paul uses the noun, “fullness” (plh,rwma- PLEROMA) to denote the

totality of Divine essence.

b) In our verse, we have the verb “complete” (plhro,w- PLEROO) to indicate the

completeness of the believer.

c) The noun and verb are cognates.

2) Both Christ and the Christian possess a fullness or completeness but for different

reasons.

a) As God the Son, Christ has always possessed the “fullness” of Deity. Now this

“fullness” is permanently united with His true humanity.

b) Subsequent to saving faith, the believer is permanently “completed” based on his

union in Christ.

c) As the hypostatic union is permanent, so is the completeness of the believer.

3) In our verse, the completeness does not refer to spiritual maturity or advancement.

4) Rather, Paul is referring to a positional completeness.

a) “Complete” (plhro,w- PLEROO) is in the perfect tense which denotes an action

that was completed in the past but the emphasis is on the present result or

condition.

b) In addition, the verb is in the passive voice which indicates that the Colossian‟s

were not “completed” through any personal effort. In other words, they did not

complete themselves.

c) Compare the use of “firmly rooted” (r`izo,w- RIDZOO) in vs. 7.

5) If “complete” referred to ongoing spiritual growth, Paul would have used the present

tense. Also, it is evident in context that spiritual advancement is dependant upon the

positive volition of every believer (cp. Col. 1:23-“continue to remain”; 2:7- “being

built up” and “being established”).

6) The implicit truth within this verse is that “completeness” is not attained through the

belief in or practice of the Colossian philosophy.

7) Once more Paul demonstrates the preeminence of Christ.

8) Previously in 1:18, Paul figuratively depicted Christ as the “head” (kefalh,- KEPHALE) of the body which is the universal church (Eph. 4:15-16).

a) As the “head” (kefalh, - KEPHALE), Christ exercises control and direction over

the body (Acts 2:47, Eph. 1:22-23 cp. Eph. 5:23).

b) Our union with Him is a guarantee that we will share in His destiny as joint heirs

(Rom. 8:17, Eph. 3:6).

9) In our verse, Paul asserts that Christ is “the head over all rule and authority.”

a) “Head” refers to superior rank or the authority of Christ.

b) All authority, whether angelic or human, is subject to Him (cp. Phil. 3:20-21 1

Tim. 6:15-16, 1 Peter 3:22, Rev. 19:16).

3

c) As the preeminent authority, Christ establishes human rulers and nations (Col.

1:16 cp. Dan. 4:24-25; 34-35, Acts 17:26).

d) His authority also extends to the following:

i) The bestowal of eternal life (John 5.21).

ii) Judgment (John 5:22, 27).

iii) The forgiveness of sins (Luke 5.24).

iv) Healing (Matt. 14:14).

v) Control over the elements (Matt. 8:24-27 cp. Job 37:3-6).

vi) His own death and resurrection (John 10:18).

e) However, during His incarnation, He was subject Himself to legitimate

authorities.

i) God the Father (John 15:10).

ii) Governing authorities (Matt. 22:21, John 19:10-11).

f) As believers, we are subject to governing authorities (Eccl. 8:2-8, Rom.13:1-7,

Titus 3:1, 1 Pet. 2:13-14).

1

Exegesis:

Colossians 2:11 “and in Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision1 made

without hands, in the removal of the body of the flesh by the circumcision2 of Christ”

1) “In Him”: the preposition, evn- EN, “in” + the masculine singular relative pronoun, o[j- HOS, “which, what, who.” Translate “in Whom.”

2) “Also”: the conjunction, kai- KAI, “and, also, even.”

3) “Circumcised”: the aorist passive indicative verb, perite,mnw- PERITEMNO, “to

circumcise.”

4) “Circumcision”1, 2

: the singular noun, peritomh,- PERITOME, “circumcision, one who

is circumcised.”

5) “Made without hands”: the singular adjective, avceiropoi,htoj- ACHEIROPOIETOS,

“not made with hands.”

6) “Removal”: the singular noun, avpe,kdusij- APEKDUSIS, “to strip off, to remove.”

7) “The body of the flesh”: the singular noun, sw/ma- SOMA, “body” + the singular

noun, sa,rx- SARX, “flesh.” Translate “fleshly body.”

8) “Christ”: the singular noun, Cristo,j- CHRISTOS, “Christ.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:11 “and in Whom you were also circumcised with a circumcision made

without hands, in the removal of the fleshly body by the circumcision of Christ”

2

Colossians 2:11 “and in Whom you were also circumcised with a circumcision made

without hands, in the removal of the fleshly body by the circumcision of Christ”

Analysis of vs. 11:

1) “In Whom” is another reference to our spiritual union with Christ which begins at

saving faith.

2) As discussed in vs. 10, the believer is positionally made complete in Christ.

3) In vs. 11, Paul introduces another aspect of our spiritual union to the Colossians.

4) Specifically, every believer is “circumcised” (perite,mnw- PERITEMNO) in Christ.

5) Furthermore, the “circumcision” (peritomh,- PERITOME) is performed without

hands.

6) If the ritual of physical “circumcision” were in view, this procedure would be quite

challenging!

7) Some various elements of ritual circumcision:

a) Circumcision entails the surgical removal of the male foreskin as a religious

ritual.

b) The Jews have practiced the ritual since Abraham, the first Jew.

c) God first established circumcision as the sign of the Abrahamic Covenant

(Gen.17:10-17).

i) Abraham (and his entire male household) was circumcised when he was 99

years old.

ii) From that day forward all Jewish male children were to be circumcised on the

8th day after birth.

iii) It was commanded as a part of the Mosaic Covenant. Leviticus 12:3 “And on

the eighth day the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised.”

iv) Non-Jews could not participate in the feast of Passover unless they were first

circumcised (Ex. 12:43, 48).

v) Moses failed to circumcise his son and it nearly cost him his life (Ex. 4:24-

26).

vi) Failure to be circumcised resulted in excommunication from Jewish society.

Genesis 17:14 "But an uncircumcised male who is not circumcised in the flesh

of his foreskin, that person shall be cut off from his people; he has broken My

covenant."

vii) The Exodus Generation, a generation of reversionists, failed to have their sons

circumcised in Egypt or in the wilderness. Joshua 5:3-7 “So Joshua made

himself flint knives and circumcised the sons of Israel at Gibeath-haaraloth. 4

And this is the reason why Joshua circumcised them: all the people who came

out of Egypt who were males, all the men of war, died in the wilderness along

the way, after they came out of Egypt. 5 For all the people who came out were

circumcised, but all the people who were born in the wilderness along the way

as they came out of Egypt had not been circumcised. 6 For the sons of Israel

walked forty years in the wilderness, until all the nation, that is, the men of

war who came out of Egypt, perished because they did not listen to the voice

of the LORD, to whom the LORD had sworn that He would not let them see

3

the land which the LORD had sworn to their fathers to give us, a land flowing

with milk and honey. 7 And their children whom He raised up in their place,

Joshua circumcised; for they were uncircumcised, because they had not

circumcised them along the way.”

viii) Jesus Christ was circumcised on the 8th day in compliance with the Law.

Luke 2:21 “And when eight days were completed before His circumcision,

His name was then called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was

conceived in the womb.”

d) Ritual circumcision was never intended as a requirement for salvation. This

demonstrated in the case of Abraham (Rom.4:9-12).

i) Paul points out to legalistic Jews that Abraham was declared righteous (i.e.

justified) while still “uncircumcised.”

ii) Therefore, all who follow "in the steps of faith" have Abraham as their father.

iii) This includes believing Jews as well as uncircumcised Gentiles. Romans 3:29-

30 “Or is God the God of Jews only? Is He not the God of Gentiles also? Yes,

of Gentiles also, 30

since indeed God who will justify the circumcised by faith

and the uncircumcised through faith is one.”

iv) Although ritual circumcision was required during the Age of Israel, “inner”

circumcision was of primary importance. The inner circumcision was

synonymous with obedience to God‟s directive will. Deuteronomy 10:16

"Circumcise then your heart, and stiffen your neck no more” Jeremiah 4:4

"Circumcise yourselves to the LORD And remove the foreskins of your heart,

Men of Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem, Lest My wrath go forth like fire

And burn with none to quench it, Because of the evil of your deeds." (cp.

Rom. 2:28-29).

8) The ritual is not a requirement for Church Age believers (Gal. 5:6; 6:15).

9) However, early Jewish converts to Christianity, following their unbelieving

counterparts in Judaism, sought to impose the ritual of circumcision upon the early

Gentile Christians (Acts 15:1-5).

a) In a certain case, “Judaizers” came from Jerusalem to Antioch, a large Gentile

community, and infiltrated their ranks.

b) They advocated social segregation between Jewish and Gentile Christians

(Gal.2:4-5, 11-14).

c) Meanwhile their disciples moved in on the newly founded Gentile churches of

Galatia and persuaded them that salvation was not by faith alone (Gal.1:6-7; 3:1).

d) However, Paul emphatically asserts that salvation was by grace, totally apart from

any works. Ephesians 2:8-9 “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and

that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, that no one

should boast.”

10) In our verse, Paul is referring to a nonphysical, spiritual circumcision.

a) In contrast to the ritual, it is completely unseen and doesn‟t result in an external,

visible mark.

b) God the Holy Spirit performs the inward circumcision at the point of faith in

Christ (Rom. 2:29).

4

11) The circumcision is nonphysical so the statement “removal of the fleshly body” may

appear to be cryptic.

12) However, it must be understood that “the fleshly body” is a reference to the Old Sin

Nature (OSN).

a) Adam is the source of the OSN.

i) He acquired the OSN, in his “flesh,” after his original sin and passed it on to

the human race via procreation.

ii) In addition, Adam‟s sin was judged which resulted in his spiritual death. This

also became mankind‟s legacy (cp. Gen 2:17; 3:6).

iii) After the fall, Adam could not perpetuate anything better than himself.

iv) Hence, since the fall, every member of the human race at birth possesses an

OSN and is in spiritually dead condition. The one exception being Jesus

Christ (Rom 5:12, 17-18; 6:17, 1 Cor. 15:22).

b) Scripture demonstrates that the OSN resides in the genetic code of the human

body (Psa. 51:5).

c) In fact, the “flesh” and “body” are frequently cited as the place of sin and lust

(Rom. 8:1-9, 12, Gal.5:16, Eph.2:3, 2 Pet. 2:10 18).

13) The “fleshly body” or OSN is analogous to foreskin which is removed during

circumcision.

14) In the spiritual circumcision, the “removal” of the OSN is accomplished at salvation.

a) The aorist verb, “circumcised” (perite,mnw- PERITEMNO) indicates a completed

event in the past.

b) It is clear from other passages, that the believers continue to possess an OSN and

sin after salvation (1 John 1:8-10 cp. Rom. 7:14-25).

15) Rather, in the “circumcision of Christ, the OSN is positionally removed or set aside at

salvation (Rom. 6:2-7, 18; Col. 3:9).

16) Prior to our salvation we were “in Adam.” A hopeless position characterized by

spiritual death and domination of the OSN (cp. Col 2:13).

17) However, after salvation we are “in Christ.” A privileged position in which the

domination of the OSN has been effectively terminated and the believer is spiritually

alive. 1 Corinthians 15:22 “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all shall be made

alive.”

1

Exegesis:

Colossians 2:12 “…having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also

raised up with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the

dead…”

1) “Having been buried with”: the participle, sunqa,ptw- SUNTHAPTO, “to bury with or

at the same time.”

2) “Baptism”: the noun, baptismo,j- BAPTISMOS, “washing, cleansing, baptism.”

3) “Also”: the conjunction, kai- KAI, “and, also, even.”

4) “Raised up with”: the verb, sunegei,rw- SUNEGEIRO, “to raise with.”

5) “Through faith”: the preposition, dia.- DIA, “through” + the noun, pi,stij- PISTIS,

““that which is believed, body of faith or a state of believing, faith.”

6) “Working”: the noun, evne,rgeia- ENERGEIA, “action, operation, working.”

7) “God who raised”: the noun, qeo,j- THEOS, “God.”

8) “Dead”: the adjective, nekro,j- NEKROS, “dead.”

Revised translation: No revisions necessary.

2

Colossians 2:12 “having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised

up with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead.”

Analysis of vs. 12:

1) In the previous verse, Paul discussed spiritual circumcision as it related to a believer‟s

position in Christ.

2) Vs. 12 calls attention to a “baptism” in which the Colossians are identified with

Christ.

3) The question naturally arises, “Which baptism is in view?”

4) Paul is referring to the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

a) This is based on the immediate context dealing with various characteristics of a

believer‟s spiritual union with Christ (i.e. “completeness,” “circumcision”).

b) Also the noun “baptism” is preceded by the definite article which draws attention

to a specific baptism. Literally, our verse reads “in the baptism.”

c) Furthermore, a believer is placed into a union with Christ only through the

baptism of God the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:13).

5) In this baptism, the Colossian‟s are identified with Christ in His death, burial and

resurrection (cp. Rom. 6:3-5).

a) These identifications with Christ are positional not experiential.

b) All believers share this identification with Christ.

c) All believers share in His victory over death and sin (Rom. 6:6-7, 2 Tim 2:11).

d) All believers share in His resurrection (cp. Rom. 6:8, Eph. 2:6, Col. 3:1).

6) Although the ritual of Christian water baptism is a command for the Church Age, it

doesn‟t actually secure our position in Christ (cp. Matt. 28:19-20, Acts 10:44-48).

7) Rather the ritual represents the reality of the baptism of God the Holy Spirit.

8) Paul states that this baptism is “through faith” which refers to saving faith (cp. Gal.

3:26-29).

9) In addition, Paul indicates that God the Father raised or resurrected Christ from the

dead (cp. Eph. 1:20).

10) As God raised Christ, so believers will be raised through His power (1 Cor. 6:14).

1

Vocabulary:

Colossians 2:13 “And when you were dead in your transgressions1 and the

uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us

all our transgressions2,”

1) “And”: the conjunction, kai- KAI, “and, also, even.” Translate “even.”

2) “Dead”: the adjective, nekro,j- NEKROS, “dead.”

3) “Transgressions1, 2

”: the noun, para,ptwma- PARAPTOMA, “false step, offense, sin.”

4) “Uncircumcision”: the noun, avkrobusti,a- AKROBUSTIA, “(lit) foreskin, (fig)

uncircumcision.”

5) “Flesh”: the noun, sa,rx- SARX, “flesh.”

6) “Made you alive together with”: the verb, suzwopoie,w- SUDZOOPOIEO, “to make

alive together with.”

7) “Having forgiven”: the participle, cari,zomai- CHARIDZOMAI, “to forgive, pardon.”

Translate “pardoned.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:13 Even when you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision

of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having pardoned us all our

transgressions”

2

Colossians 2:13 Even when you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision

of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having pardoned us all our

transgressions”

Analysis of vs. 13:

1) Paul restates the pre-salvation condition of the Colossian believers.

2) He emphatically points out that they had been living in a constant state of spiritual

death.

a) Spiritual death began with Adam when he sinned in the Garden. Genesis 2:17

“but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the

day that you eat from it you shall surely die (lit: “dying you will die”." Genesis

3:6 “When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a

delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took

from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate.” 1

Corinthians 15:21 “For since by a man came death, by a man also came the

resurrection of the dead.”

b) As the offspring of Adam, all mankind is born physically alive but spiritually

dead. 1 Corinthians 15:22 “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all shall be

made alive.”

3) Furthermore, their former spiritually dead condition is characterized by sin and the

domination of the OSN (cp. Eph. 2:1-3, Col. 3:5-9).

a) In addition to spiritual death, Adam is the source of the OSN in mankind (Rom.

5:12).

b) Earlier in the epistle, Paul discussed their hopeless pre-salvation state (Col. 1:21).

c) In our verse, “transgressions” is used to refer to personal sins (cp. Gal. 6:1, Eph.

1:7).

d) The “uncircumcision of your flesh” is not a reference to physical circumcision.

Rather, this refers to the perpetual domination of the OSN in their spiritually dead

condition.

e) In their case, “the removal of the fleshly body” had not yet been accomplished

(cp. Col.2:11).

f) Hence, they were ruled by the OSN and enslaved to sin (cp. Rom. 6:6, Gal. 5:19-

21).

g) It is critical to note that the one who is dominated by the OSN, whether believer

or unbeliever, cannot please God (Rom.8:7-8).

4) Now, based on faith in Christ, the Colossians have been “made alive together with

Him” and have peace with God (Col. 1:22, cp. Rom. 6:13).

a) God made this new life available to the Colossians while they were spiritually

dead. It was a potential that became a reality at the point of saving faith (cp. Rom.

5:8, Eph. 2:5).

b) Due to our union with Christ we share in His eternal life.

c) In His plan of grace, God provided eternal life to all who believe (John 5:24, Eph.

2:5-8).

3

d) In addition, the believer is born again (i.e. regeneration) through the work of the

Holy Spirit (John 1:12-13; 3:3-6, 1 John 5:1, 4).

5) Vs. 13 indicates that God graciously pardons or forgives “all our transgressions.”

a) In our context, forgiveness refers to the cancellation of a debt.

b) The pardon or forgiveness is the legal act of God whereby He removes the

charges that were held against the sinner.

c) Paul appropriately includes himself with the Colossians as a fellow recipient of

forgiveness.

d) The scope of the forgiveness is all inclusive. ALL “transgressions” are forgiven.

e) This is a reality for all believers (Acts 10:43). 6) All believers are made alive with Christ by means of God‟s forgiveness (cp. Col.

1:13-14).

7) Based on the forgiveness we have graciously received, believers must also forgive

others. The failure to forgive others will result in serious problems (Luke 17:3-4, Eph.

4:32, Col. 3:13 cp. Matt. 6:14-15).

8) In addition, God‟s forgiveness does not rule out divine discipline when believers

transgress His commands (Psa. 99:8)

1

Vocabulary:

Colossians 2:14 “having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against

us and which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the

cross.”

1) “Having canceled out”: the participle, evxalei,fw- EXALEIPHO, “to wipe out, remove,

erase.” Translate „having wiped out.”

2) “Certificate of debt”: the noun, ceiro,grafon- XEIROGRAPHON, “a hand written

document, an account, a record of debt.” Translate “record of debt.”

3) “Consisting of decrees”: the noun, do,gma- DOGMA, “a decree, ordinance, decision.”

Translate “in the decrees.”

4) “Hostile”: the adjective, u`penanti,on- HUPENANTION, “opposed, contrary, hostile.”

5) “Has taken”: the verb, ai;rw- AIRO, “to take up, pick up, remove.” Translate “has

removed.”

6) “Out of the way”: the preposition, evk- EK, “out, from” + the adjective, me,soj- MESOS, “middle, among.” Translate “from among us.”

7) “Having nailed”: the participle, proshlo,w-PROSELOO, “to fix to, nail.”

8) “Cross”: the noun, stauro,j- STAUROS, “an upright pale or stake, a cross.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:14 “having wiped out the record of debt in the decrees against us and which

was hostile to us; and He has removed it from among us, having nailed it to the cross.”

2

Colossians 2:14 “having wiped out the record of debt in the decrees against us and which

was hostile to us; and He has removed it from among us, having nailed it to the cross.”

Analysis of vs. 14:

1) Paul continues to explain how the Colossian‟s have been made alive together with

Christ.

2) In our verse, Paul uses commercial terminology to illustrate the forgiveness of sin.

3) Due to our fallen, sinful condition, mankind was depicted as having a “record of

debt.”

a) As a business term, a “record of debt” is a “writing in which one acknowledges

that money has either been deposited with him or lent to him by another, to he

returned at an appointed time” (cp. Philemon 1:19).

b) In our context, mankind is viewed as indebted to God.

c) Furthermore, mankind was in a hopeless disadvantage as the debt was “against

us” and “hostile to us.”

4) The “record of debt” is analogous to the penalty of sin.

5) “In the decrees” is a reference to the individual ordinances of the Mosaic Law.

a) Sinful man is viewed as indebted to God because he cannot keep all of the decrees

of the Law all of the time (Eph. 2:15 cp. Gal. 3:10, James 2:10).

b) Although the Law was given to the Jews, the whole world is accountable to God

(Rom. 3:9-20 cp. Rom 1:19-21).

6) Paul states that God “wiped out” mankind‟s debt.

a) In a literal sense, “wiped out” indicates a blotting out of a written record.

b) Vs. 14 indicates that God “wiped out” the debt or removed the penalty of sin (cp.

Acts 13:38-39, Rom. 8:1, 33, 2 Cor. 5:21).

7) Furthermore, the perfect tense of “removed” (ai;rw- AIRO) demonstrates a permanent

removal.

8) God accomplished this through the perfect work of Christ on the cross.

a) In a figurative way, the “record of debt” was nailed to the cross.

b) Christ's death for the sins of all men satisfied the perfect righteousness and justice

of God (Heb 2:17, 1 John 2:2; 4:10).

1

Vocabulary:

Colossians 2:15 “When He had disarmed the rulers and authorities, He made a public

display of them, having triumphed over them through Him.”

1) “When He had disarmed”: the participle, avpekdu,omai- APEKDUOMAI, “strip off,

disarm.” Translate “having disarmed.”

2) “Rulers”: the noun, avrch,- ARCHE, “power, rule, domain; an authority figure who

initiates activity or process; a ruler, authority.”

3) “Authorities”: the noun, evxousi,a- EXOUSIA, “authority, right, power; a bearer of

ruling authority, an authority.”

4) “Made a public display”: the verb, deigmati,zw- DEIGMATIDZO, “to expose, make

an example of” + the preposition, evn- EN, “in, by, through” + the noun, parrhsi,a-

PARRESIA, “boldness, plainness, openness, publicly.” Translate, “exposed them in

public.”

5) “Having triumphed over”: the participle, qriambeu,w- THRIAMBEUO, “to lead in

triumph, to triumph over.” The participle indicates cause so translate “since having

triumphed.”

6) “Through Him”: the preposition, evn- EN, “in, by, through” + the pronoun, auvto,j- AUTOS, “he, she, it.” The antecedent is “the cross” in vs. 14 so translate “through it.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:15 “Having disarmed the rulers and authorities, He exposed them in public,

since having triumphed over them through it.”

2

Colossians 2:15 “Having disarmed the rulers and authorities, He exposed them in public,

since having triumphed over them through it.”

Analysis of vs. 15:

1) Paul states that God “disarmed the rulers and authorities.”

2) The term “disarmed” depicts a vanquished foe that has been stripped of all his

weapons. (cp. “laid aside” in Col. 3:9).

3) Hence the foe is rendered powerless.

4) Which rulers and authorities? Is this a reference to earthly or angelic beings?

a) Whether human or angelic, God is the supreme ruler over all rulers and authorities

in the universe (Eph. 1:21 cp. Col. 1:16-17, 2:10).

b) It is evident that angelic worship was prevalent in the region (Col. 2:18).

c) Furthermore, based on the imagery of a humiliated, vanquished foe, Satan and his

fallen angels are in view (cp. Eph. 3:10; 6:12).

5) Although Satan and his fallen angels continue to exercise authority in this world, their

repeated attempts to thwart the perfect work of Christ have failed (Acts 26:18, Col.

1:13, Rev. 13:2-4 cp. Matt. 28:18).

6) In our verse, Paul depicts God as a conquerer that parades His enemies in public as

part of a triumphant procession.

7) The great triumph is based on the cross.

8) As a consequence of Christ‟s perfect work on the cross and subsequent resurrection,

God has stripped Satan and the fallen angels of their power (Heb. 2:14, 1 Peter 3:19-

22).

9) Their final demise (i.e. sentence), which was secured at the cross, will be carried out

after the Millenium (Matt. 25:41, Rev. 20:2-10).

10) It is a sentence that is known by all demons (Matt. 8:29, James 2:19).

1

Vocabulary:

Colossians 2:16 “Therefore let no one act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in

respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day”

1) “Therefore”: the conjunction, ou=n- OUN, “so, therefore, consequently.”

2) “Act as your judge”: the verb, kri,nw- KRINO, “to judge, decide, condemn.”

Translate “continue judging you.”

3) “Food”: the noun, brw/sij- BROSIS, “the act of eating.” Translate “eating.”

4) “Drink”: the noun, po,sij- POSIS, “the act of drinking.”

5) “Festival”: the noun, e`orth,- EORTE, “a festival, celebration, feast.”

6) “New moon”: the noun, neomhni,a- NEOMENIA, “ new moon, first of the month.”

7) “Sabbath day”: the noun, sa,bbaton- SABBATON, “ceasing from labor, rest, the 7th

day of the week in Israel‟s calendar.” Translate “Sabbaths.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:16 “Therefore let no one continue judging you in regard to eating or

drinking or in respect to a festival or a new moon or Sabbaths”

2

Colossians 2:16 “Therefore let no one continue judging you in regard to eating or

drinking or in respect to a festival or a new moon or Sabbaths”

Analysis of vs. 16:

1) Paul begins vs. 16 by issuing a command.

2) He instructs the Colossians not to let anyone “continue judging” them.

a) The verb “judging” is a present imperative which denotes a continuous or

repeated action.

b) The believers in Colossae were continually being judged for their lack of

conformity to the Colossian philosophy.

c) Alternatively, they experienced constant criticism for their adherence to sound

doctrine.

d) The conjunction, “therefore,” indicates the reason for the command.

i) Paul is referring back to the issues he had just discussed in vss. 9-15.

ii) The primary issues involve the perfect person and work of Christ and the

believer‟s position in Him.

3) Any believer that desires to live their life according to the principles of sound

doctrine will face unfavorable judgment and condemnation (John 15:20, Phil. 1:29, 2

Tim. 3:12).

4) Paul has just issued a command to let no one judge them. How were the Colossian

believers to prevent the constant unfair criticism? How do we prevent it? Consider the

following responses:

a) They could have countered with physical threats or verbal abuse. Such responses

are inappropriate as they don‟t comply with Scripture (Rom. 12:17-21, 1 Peter

3:9).

b) A mental response according to sound doctrine which includes the following:

i) Focus on the example set by our Savior who endured the utmost in

unfavorable judgments (1 Peter 2:21-23).

ii) Focus on the fact that you will suffer (1 Peter 1:13, 4:1).

iii) Pray and trust God to resolve the circumstances (1 Peter 4:19; 5:6-7 cp. 2 Tim.

4:14, 1 Peter 4:5).

iv) Focus on the principles of sound doctrine and future reward (cp. 1 Peter 4:13).

c) A verbal refutation according to Divine viewpoint (cp. Acts 13:45-47, 1 Tim.

5:20, Titus 1:9).

5) In our verse, Paul points out the Colossian‟s are being judged in 5 primary areas.

6) These areas are characterized by Jewish ritual. However the exact characteristics of

each area are not specified.

7) The 1st area relates to “eating.”

a) It is likely that this refers to dietary restrictions contained in the Mosaic Law

(clean vs. unclean, cp. Lev. 11:1ff, Acts 10:14).

b) Based on other contexts, it was not uncommon for additional restrictions to be

imposed that exceeded the bounds of the Law (cp. Mark 7:1-8).

3

c) However, in the Church Age, believers are not bound by any dietary restrictions.

In fact, Christ declared all meats to be clean and should be received with

thanksgiving (Mark 7:19, cp. Acts 10:15, 1Cor.10:25-26, 1 Tim 4:3-5).

8) The 2nd

area relates to “drinking.”

a) The Mosaic Law did not prohibit wine or strong drink (Deut. 14:26).

b) However, this did not prevent some Jews from instituting their own legalistic

practices (Matt. 23:24, cp. Lev. 11:20).

c) The consumption of alcohol is legitimate but drunkenness is prohibited (1 Tim.

5:23 cp. Prov. 20:1, Eph. 5:18).

9) The 3rd

area relates to a “festival.”

a) Paul doesn‟t specify which “festival.”

b) At the very least, a “festival” would include the 3 primary feasts on the Jewish

calendar: Passover, Booths, and Pentecost (Deut 16:1-16).

c) Other feasts may have included: Purim (Est. 9:17-24), The Day of Atonement

(Lev. 16:33-34).

d) Church Age believers are not commanded to observe any festivals or feasts.

10) The 4th

area relates to a “new moon.”

a) The “new moon” was celebrated every month and marked the observance of the

lunar calendar (Num.10:10, 28:11; 1 Sam.20:18).

b) Paul reproved the Galatians for observing the “new moon” (Gal. 4:10).

11) The 5th

area related to “Sabbaths.”

a) "Sabbaths” pointed to Saturday, the day of weekly rest.

b) Under the Law, the observance of the Sabbath was compulsory (Ex.20:8-11;

31:12-18).

c) In addition, Sabbatical years may also have been observed (Ex. 23:10-12).

12) Church Age believers, Jew or Gentile, are not under the law. Therefore the

observance of a festival, new moon, or Sabbath is not required.

1

Vocabulary:

Colossians 2:17 “things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance

belongs to Christ.”

1) “Shadow”: the noun, skia,- SKIA, “shade, a shadow.”

2) “What is to come”: the participle, me,llw- MELLO, “to be about to, going to, to

come.”

3) “Substance”: the noun, sw/ma- SOMA, “a body.”

4) “Christ”: the noun, Cristo,j- CHRISTOS, “Christ.”

* Revised translation: No revisions necessary.

2

Colossians 2:17 “things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance

belongs to Christ.”

Analysis of vs. 17:

1) In a concise manner Paul dismisses the unfavorable judgments of the heretics.

2) Paul classifies the elements in vs. 16 (e.g. festival) as a “shadow.”

a) Ironically, the critics that were incredibly fastidious in observing the rituals in vs.

16 were in fact completely ignorant of their underlying reality.

b) In the physical realm, a shadow is an image that is caused by a material object or

person.

c) In a similar manner, various ordinances in the Law are a “shadow” but the

“substance” or reality is Christ (Heb 10:1).

3) The ordinances were a teaching aid which foreshadowed the perfect person and work

of Christ.

4) Our verse indicates a fundamental principle of typology.

a) The term “shadow” (ski, - SKIA) is closely related to the word “type” (tempo-

TUPOS: Heb. 8:5).

b) A “type” is an image, model or pattern.

c) Both terms, “shadow” and “type” point to a representative relationship which

certain persons, events, institutions, or things in the O.T. bear to corresponding

counterparts in the N.T.

d) Furthermore, types are appointed by God.

5) The rationale for the study of types:

a) The relationship between the Old Testament and the New Testament is the basis

for such study.

b) Many things that are taught in types and symbols (or merely alluded to in shadow

form) in the Old Testament are directly revealed in the New Testament.

c) Typological interpretation is based on the unity of the two testaments.

d) Christ, Himself taught that He was referred to in the O.T. (Luke 24:27, John

5:46).

e) The vocabulary of the New Testament with regard to the Old Testament is quite

specific as in the case of “shadow” (ski, - SKIA) and “type” (tempo- TUPOS).

6) As an example, the Passover lamb was a type of Christ.

a) The lamb was with out blemish which typified the perfection of Christ (Ex. 12:5,

John 1:29, Heb. 9:14, 1 Peter 1:19).

b) The sacrifice of the lamb typified Christ‟s perfect work of atonement on the cross

(1 Cur. 5:7, 1 John 2:2).

7) During His incarnation, Christ, the substance or reality, fulfilled the types.

8) Therefore, the Colossian‟s were no longer required to observe the rituals which

foreshadowed Him.

1

Vocabulary:

Colossians 2:18 “Let no one keep defrauding you of your prize by delighting in self-

abasement and the worship of the angels, taking his stand on visions he has seen, inflated

without cause by his fleshly mind”

1) “No one”: the adjective, mhdei,j- MEDEIS, “nobody, no one.”

2) “Defrauding you of your prize”: the verb, katabrabeu,w- KATABRABEUO, “to give

judgment against, decide against, to judge as not worthy of a reward, to rob of a

prize” + the pronoun, su,- SU, “you.”

3) “Delighting”: the participle, qe,lw- THELO, “to wish, desire, take pleasure.” Translate

“taking pleasure.”

4) “Self-abasement”: the noun, tapeinofrosu,nh- TAPEINOPHROSUNE, “humility,

self-abasement, false humility.” Translate “false humility.”

5) “Worship”: the noun, qrhskei,a- THRESKEIA, “a religion, religious service or

worship, an expression of devotion.”

6) “Angels”: the noun, a;ggeloj- ANGELOS, “an envoy, messenger or angel.”

7) “Taking his stand”: the participle, evmbateu,w- EMBATEUO, “to set foot upon, (fig) to

take one‟s stand on, to base one‟s authority on.”

8) “Visions”: the pronoun, a]- HA, “who, which, what, that.” Translate “things which.”

9) “Seen”: the verb, o`ra,w- HORAO, “to see, catch sight of, notice.”

10) “Inflated”: the participle, fusio,w- PHUSIOO, “(lit) to puff up, blow up, inflate, (fig)

to make proud or arrogant.”

11) “Without cause”: the adjective, eivkh/- EIKE, “without cause or reason.”

12) “Fleshly mind”: the noun, nou/j- NOUS, “the mind, way of thinking, faculty of

understanding” + the noun, sa,rx- SARX, “flesh.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:18 “Let no one keep defrauding you of your prize by taking pleasure in

false humility and the worship of the angels, taking his stand on things which he has seen,

inflated without cause by his fleshly mind”

2

Colossians 2:18 “Let no one keep defrauding you of your prize by taking pleasure in

false humility and the worship of the angels, taking his stand on things which he has seen,

inflated without cause by his fleshly mind”

Analysis of vs. 18:

1) Paul warns the Colossians not to allow anyone to defraud them of their prize.

2) In our verse, Paul uses an athletic motif.

a) The subject “no one” refers to anyone who was an advocate of the Colossian

philosophy.

b) “Defraud of your prize” (katabrabeu,w- KATABRABEUO) depicts an umpire or

judge in public games that disqualifies a contestant for a violation of the rules of a

contest. Furthermore, the contestant who is disqualified forfeits any prize that

would have been awarded for winning.

c) In a figurative sense, the advocate is the umpire who disqualifies and deprives the

Colossian believers of reward.

d) According to the advocate (i.e. umpire) the Colossians did not play by the rules of

the contest.

3) However the rules of the contest were based on false doctrine and not on Divine

viewpoint.

a) Their rules or standards included “false humility”, “worship of angels”, etc.

b) Therefore the Colossian‟s were not required to meet their criterion.

4) The basis for disqualification was completely erroneous.

5) In fact, to play by their rules would violate principles of sound doctrine.

6) Ironically, those believers that did adhere to this false doctrine would in a very literal

sense, forfeit Divine reward including the opportunity to gain a wreath.

7) It is evident in other contexts, that believers are commanded to “compete” according

to God‟s directive will (1 Cor. 9:24-27, cp. Phil. 3:12-14).

8) A maturing believer will have a zeal for good works and eternal reward (Eph. 2:10,

Titus 2:14, 2 John 1:8).

9) In the realm of eternal reward, the wreath is the ultimate prize awarded to the believer

who “competes” according to God‟s rules. It is a reward for exceptional service or

conduct in the life of a mature believer.

10) Some wreaths include:

a) The wreath of life.

i) Available to the entire Royal Family.

ii) Given to believers who pass the testing on the road to maturity (James 1:12).

iii) The correct application of sound doctrine is critical to perseverance.

iv) Rewarded to believer's who faithful until death (Rev. 2:10).

b) The wreath of righteousness.

i) It is a potential for every member of the Royal Family.

ii) The reward is obtained by making the MAJG until death (2 Tim. 4:7).

c) The crown of glory.

i) A potential for those who communicate sound doctrine (apostle and p/t).

ii) Awarded to the faithful shepherd (1 Peter 5:4).

3

11) In our verse, as in vs. 16, Paul elaborates on some of the characteristics of those who

espoused the Colossian philosophy.

12) Paul indicates that they take “pleasure in false humility.”

a) Depending on context, the term for “humility” (tapeinofrosu,nh-

TAPEINOPHROSUNE) may be used in positive or negative sense.

b) In our context, “humility” is used in a negative sense. Hence the translation “false

humility.”

c) “False humility” was often demonstrated by overt displays of self promotion

especially during a fast. The goal was to impress others (cp. Matt. 6:16).

d) The one who asserts self in order to impress others manifests an arrogant mental

attitude (cp. Luke 18:11).

e) Arrogance, whether mental or overt is never appropriate (1 Sam. 2:3, Psa. 101:5,

Prov. 14:6, Dan. 5:20).

f) Instead the believer is to demonstrate true humility through obedience to sound

doctrine. Even in the face of contempt or scorn (Psa. 119:51, cp. Num. 12:3, 2

Chron. 32:26, Micah 6:8, Zeph. 2:3, Acts 20:19).

g) In vs. 18, “humility” was wrongly directed by the heretics and was manifested in

obedience to false doctrine (e.g. adherence to mystery cults).

h) Christ is the ultimate example of humility (Matt. 11:29, Phil. 2:8).

i) We must follow His example and manifest humility towards others (Phil. 2:3,

Eph. 4:2, Col. 3:12, James 4:10, 1 Peter 5:5).

j) Humility is essential to learn Bible Doctrine (James 1:21).

13) Paul points out that the “worship of the angels” was prevalent.

a) Our term “worship” (qrhskei,a- THRESKEIA) denotes an expression of devotion

to something or someone.

b) In the Greco-Roman world, the term often referred to a devotion or service to a

pagan deity (e.g. Apollo).

c) Angels are the object of worship in our verse.

d) Paul doesn‟t specify whether the angels are elect or fallen or both.

e) The worship of angels was a common practice in Asia Minor.

i) In Colossae, “Michael” was considered the chief angel and protector of the

city.

ii) According to tradition, he appeared to the populace and saved the city from a

flood.

f) It is evident from many inscriptions from Asia Minor, that angels were called

upon or invoked for protection, deliverance or assistance.

i) An amulet discovered in the region bears the following inscription: “Michael,

Gabriel, Ouriel, protect the one who wears this. Holy, holy, holy. PIPI RPSS.

Angel, Araaph, flee O hated one. Solomon pursue you.”

ii) Another inscription reads, “O angels, protect the household and lives of John

and Georgia…O power of these angels and characters, give victory and favor

to John and Georgia and this household while they live.”

g) Superstition was an integral part of the society

h) Believers must depend on God for their protection (Psa. 121:1ff, 146:9, 2 Thess.

3:3).

4

14) God not angels is to be our only object of worship (Psa. 29:2, Psa. 97:7, Rom. 12:1,

14:7).

15) Concerning angels:

a) They were created by Christ in eternity past (Neh. 9:6, Col. 1:16).

b) They were created prior to the universe (Job 38:4-7).

c) The total number of angels is not specified in Scripture, but there are a great

multitude (1 Kings 22:19; Dan. 7:10, Heb. 12:22; Rev. 5:11.

d) They are supernatural spirit beings that do not have a material body (Eph. 6:12,

Heb. 1:14 cp. Psa. 104:4).

e) They are stronger than man, but are not omnipotent (Psa 103:20, 2 Thess. 1:7, 2

Peter 2:11, Rev 20:1-3).

16) Unlike Satan and his fallen angels, the elect angels will not accept worship

(Rev.19:10, 22:8-9 cp. Lev. 17:7, Matt. 4:8-10, Rev. 9:20, 19:20).

5

17) As their creator, Jesus Christ is superior to angels in every respect. Obviously this fact

was not recognized by the false teachers in Colossae (Heb. 1:4-14).

18) Angels may have been incorrectly viewed as intermediaries between God and man.

19) Christ is the only mediator between the Father and mankind (1 Tim. 2:5).

20) In our verse, the phrase, “taking his stand on things which he has seen” portrays an

individual who claims to see visions.

a) “Taking his stand” (evmbateu,w- EMBATEUO) is a technical term used in the

mystery religions.

i) Literally, the term is defined as “to enter on, to step in or on, to stand on.”

ii) After an individual was initiated into a mystery cult, it was common for the

initiate to seek visions.

iii) It was thought that visions or would open the door to secret knowledge.

iv) In addition, those who did experience visions were given a higher rank within

the cult.

b) Ecstatic experiences or visions were important components of the Colossian

philosophy.

21) Paul indicates that they were “inflated without cause.”

22) Hence, the individuals who claimed to possess secret knowledge based on their

visions were acting out of arrogance.

23) The visions did NOT originate with God. Rather, they were a product of the “fleshly

mind” or OSN (cp. Jer. 14:14-15; 23:16, Ezek. 13:3-9, 1 John 2:16).

24) In other cases, visions were a product of demonic influence (cp. Acts 16:16).

25) In contrast, God used visions to communicate Divine viewpoint before the

completion of the Canon of Scripture (Num. 12:6, Isa. 1:1, Nahum 1:1, Acts 9:10)

26) The “fleshly mind” indicates an attitude or way of thinking that is dominated by the

OSN (i.e. arrogance, cp. Rom. 1:28).

27) Believers are enjoined to renew their mind. In other words, we are not to manifest

“fleshly” thinking but, instead, base our thinking on Divine viewpoint (Rom. 12:2,

Eph. 4:23 cp. 1 Cor. 2:16, Eph. 4:17).

*See Principles of Demonism

1

Vocabulary:

Colossians 2:19 and not holding fast to the head, from whom the entire body, being

supplied and held together by the joints and ligaments, grows with a growth which is

from God.

1) “Not holding fast”: the negative particle, ouv- OU, “no, not” + the participle,

krate,w- KRATEO, “to adhere to, to hold fast to.”

2) “Head”: the noun, kefalh,- KEPHALE, “a head.”

3) “Whom”: the masculine pronoun, o[j- HOS, “which, what, who.”

4) “Entire body”: the adjective, pa/j- PAS, “all, each, every, whole, entire” + the

noun, sw/ma- SOMA, “a body.”

5) “Being supplied”: the participle, evpicorhge,w- EPICHOREGEO, “to support,

supply.”

6) “Held together”: the participle, sumbiba,zw- SUMBIBADZO, “to unite, to hold

together.”

7) “Joints”: the noun, afh,- HAPHE, “a ligament, connection.” Translate

“ligaments.” A medical term that refers to that which binds the parts of the body

together.”

8) “Ligaments”: the noun, su,ndesmoj- SUNDESMOS, “a link, joint or bond.”

Translate “bonds.” Literally the term refers to the “fastenings that hold the

various ships together.”

9) “Grows”: the verb, auvxa,nw- AUXANO, “to increase, to grow.”

10) “Growth”: the noun, au;xhsij- AUXESIS, “an increase, a growth.” The noun is

articular so translate “the growth.”

11) “God”: the masculine noun, qeo,j- THEOS, “God.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:19 “and not holding fast to the head, from whom the entire body, being

supplied and held together by the ligaments and bonds, grows with the growth which is

from God.”

2

Colossians 2:19 “and not holding fast to the head, from whom the entire body, being

supplied and held together by the ligaments and bonds, grows with the growth which is

from God.”

Analysis of vs. 19:

1) Once again Paul applies the head/body analogy to his discussion.

2) The individuals that followed the Colossian philosophy, as discussed in vs. 18, were

“not holding fast to the head.”

a) Paul uses the negative particle “not” (ouv- OU) to indicate strong emphasis or

contrast. The term may be translated “definitely not.”

b) “Hold fast” conveys the idea of being strongly committed to something or

someone.

3) In our verse and as previously stated in the epistle, Christ is the Head and the

universal church is the body (Col. 1:18, 2:10).

4) Consequently, those who were involved with the heresy manifested an utter lack of

commitment to Christ.

5) The failure to “hold fast to the head” represents the rejection of sound doctrine.

6) In contrast, every believer must “hold fast” to the principles of Scripture in order to

progress to spiritual maturity (cp. Col. 1:22-23).

7) Some prominent characteristics of believers who “hold fast” to Bible doctrine:

a) The consistent FGHS (i.e. rebound). Ephesians 5:18 “And do not get drunk with

wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit.” 1 John 1:9 “If we

confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us

from all unrighteousness.”

b) An adjusted believer will recognize the importance of sound doctrine (Psa. 138:2

cp. Luke 1:49. Also 2 Tim. 3:16-17, 1 Peter 2:2).

c) The consistent intake of the Truth in an adjusted local church (Heb 10:25, cp.

Prov. 23:12 James 1:19-21, 2 Peter 3:18)

i) Consistent intake presupposes consistent attendance, self discipline and

concentration in Bible class.

ii) The smart believer will cease any activity that consistently prevents him from

attending Bible Class. It may be work, a sport or some hobby. According to

the Divine viewpoint, it doesn‟t matter. Whatever the activity, it does not

supersede the command to assemble and learn God‟s viewpoint.

iii) Absolutely nothing compares to learning the “mind of Christ!” (cp. Prov.

3:15. 8:5-11)

iv) Consider what Paul gave up in order to follow God‟s directive will (Phil. 3:4-

8).

d) The consistent application of the Truth in one‟s ph. 2 (Luke 11:27-28, Phil. 4:9,

Col. 1:6, 10; 2:6 cp. Prov.11:20, Eccl. 12:13).

e) Separation from those who consistently exhibit a lack of discipline in the

intake/application of Bible doctrine (2 Thess. 3:6, 14).

i) In other words, those who DO NOT “hold fast” to the head or sound doctrine.

3

ii) The doctrine of separation is a basic doctrine in the CWL. Oddly enough for

such a basic doctrine, it is frequently abused. Those who abuse this doctrine

range from spiritual infants to the spiritually mature (Judges 16:4-21, 1 Kings

11:9ff cp. 2 Chron. 9:22).

iii) Regardless of the level of spiritual growth, those who violate this doctrine are

spiritually witless (i.e. stupid). Consider the consequences (1 Cor. 15:33, cp.

Prov. 15:10)

f) A believer will manifest contentment with his niche and the many God-given

provisions which are a part of it (Luke 3:14, Phil. 4:11-13, 1 Tim. 6:6ff, Heb.

13:5).

i) A maladjusted believer engages in complaining and demonstrates a lack of

contentment in his niche.

ii) This type of believer primarily is focused on superficial things and is

completely oblivious to the many blessings for which he is to be thankful (cp.

Luke 12:15-31).

iii) Do not be a spiritual ingrate. Continually be thankful in your niche and do not

complain (Num. 11:1, Job 7:11-19; 10:1, cp. Psa. 97:12, Lam. 3:39, Phil. 2:14,

Col. 3:15; 4:2).

g) A believer will acclimate to various testing during his ph. 2 (James 1:2, 1 Peter

1:6-7, 4:12, Rev. 2:10 cp. Prov. 17:3. See also 1 Tim. 3:10).

8) Instead, the heretics were committed to their own system of worship.

9) Subjective religious experience (e.g. worship of angels, visions) was elevated over

devotion to Christ.

10) In the analogy, the body (i.e. universal church) is composed of “ligaments and

bonds.”

a) The “ligaments and bonds” correspond to individual believers within the universal

church.

b) Other contexts refer to individual believers as “members” of the body (Rom. 12:4,

1 Cor 12:12, 14; Eph. 5:30).

11) Paul indicates that the primary function of the “ligaments and bonds” is to supply and

hold together the body.

a) The participles “being supplied” and “held together” are in the present tense.

b) Therefore, these two functions depict a continuous or ongoing process

(“continually being supplied and held together…”).

c) Each believer that is in the process of acclimating to God‟s directive will is, in a

figurative sense, contributing to the overall support and unity of the body (e.g.

functioning under one‟s spiritual gift- Eph. 4:16 cp. Rom. 12:4ff; 14:19, 1 Cor.

12:18-26, 1 Peter 4:10 ).

d) Furthermore, those with a communication gift have the responsibility of

equipping and strengthening the members of the body (Eph. 4:11-12).

e) In the human body, ligaments and bonds (e.g. tendons, cartilage, muscles, etc.)

unite the various bones together and allow the body to be mobile.

f) In the spiritual body, the communicator enables each body part to function

properly.

4

g) The communicator does his part as he teaches the realm of sound doctrine (cp.

Acts 20:20, 27).

12) As the Head, Christ directs and nourishes the body (5:29-30).

13) Unlike the natural growth process, the body or church is to grow up into the head,

Christ (i.e. make the MAJG- Eph. 4:15).

14) The “growth” of the body refers to spiritual growth as opposed to numerical growth.

15) Ultimately, the source of spiritual growth of the body is God the Father (cp. 1 Cor.

3:6-7).

1

Vocabulary:

Colossians 2:20-21 “If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the

world 1, why, as if you were living in the world

2, do you submit yourself to decrees, such

as, 21

"Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!"

1) “If”: the conjunction, eiv- EI, “if.” The conjunction is used as a marker of condition.

2) “Died”: the verb, avpoqnh,|skw- APOTHENESKO, “to die.”

3) “With Christ”: the preposition, su,n- SUN, “with” + the noun, Cristo,j- CRISTOS,

“Christ.”

4) “Elementary principles”: the noun, stoicei/on- STOICHEION,” “basic elements,

fundamental teachings, basic principles.”

5) “World 1, 2

”: the noun, ko,smoj- KOSMOS, “the world or universe; humanity,

mankind.”

6) “Living”: the participle, za,w- ZAO, “to live.”

7) “Submit yourself to decrees”: the verb, dogmati,zw- DOGMATIDZO, “to submit to

rules, regulations, or ordinances.”

8) “Not”: the negative particle, mh,- ME, “not.”

9) “Handle”: the verb, a[ptw- APTO, “to take hold of, hold, touch; to light or kindle.”

10) “Taste”: the verb, geu,omai- GEUOMAI, “to taste.”

11) “Touch”: the verb, qigga,nw- THIGGANO, “to come in contact, to touch.”

*Revised translation: No revisions are necessary.

2

Colossians 2:20-21 “If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the

world, why, as if you were living in the world, do you submit yourself to decrees, such

as, 21

"Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!"

Analysis of vss. 20-21:

1) Paul continues his condemnation of the Colossian philosophy in vs. 20.

2) He begins with a conditional clause.

a) The conjunction, “if” (eiv- EI) indicates a condition is in view.

b) In the Greek grammar, this condition is a 1st class condition which affirms the

reality of the condition in our verse.

c) The condition, “If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the

world” is a reality for Paul‟s audience (i.e. “If you have died with Christ…and

you have…).

3) Paul reaffirms their position in Christ.

4) The Colossian‟s are viewed as having “died with Christ.”

a) Obviously this is not in an experiential sense.

b) In our verse, Paul refers to positional death (cp. Col. 3:3).

5) In addition to His death, the Colossians are identified with Christ in His burial and

resurrection (Col. 2:12)

a) All CA believers are identified with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection

(Rom. 6:3-5, 2 Tim. 2:11).

b) The identification is based on saving faith and the resultant baptism of God the

Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:13).

6) Based on this baptism, every believer shares in His victory over sin on the cross.

Hence, positionally, all believers have been set free from the power of sin (Rom. 6:6-

7, Gal. 5:24).

7) Believers were not actually on the cross, but our sins were there being judged in Him

(1 Peter 2:24).

8) In comparison, experiential victory over the OSN is a potential for every believer.

Victory over one's OSN in Ph. 2 depends upon positive volition to the intake and

application of Bible doctrine beginning with the FGHS. Hence, positional truth does

not guarantee the believer experiential victory over the flesh (OSN), Satan or the

cosmos (1 Cor. 3:1 cp. Rom. 13:14, Col. 1:22-23).

9) Due to their identification in Christ‟s death, the Colossian‟s have been separated from

“the elementary principles of the world.”

10) “Elementary principles” (stoicei/on- STOICHEION) refers to the humanistic

principles of the cosmos or world. Specifically, in our verse, the term refers to the

basic tenants of the philosophy (Col. 2:8 cp. Gal. 4:3, 9; James 3:15).

11) Paul depicts a contrast in states. The Colossian believers were physically alive in the

world but, as believers, positionally dead in Christ.

12) Although the Colossians were physically living in the cosmos, they were enjoined not

to live according to cosmic standards (Rom. 8:4-6, Gal. 5:16 cp. John 15:19, 1 John

2:16).

3

13) In light of their position in Christ, Paul pointedly asks why they submit themselves to

various decrees. Decrees or regulations with no basis in sound doctrine.

14) They were enslaving themselves to beliefs and practices that characterized their

former position (cp. 2 Peter 2:20-22).

15) The question is applicable for believers today. Considering our position, why do we

submit ourselves to the decrees of the cosmos (i.e. pursuit of wealth, devotion to

family, etc.)?

16) In vs. 21, Paul cites three decrees that promote self denial.

a) All three decrees are imperatives which prohibit the doing of a thing not yet

begun. However, the objects of these verbs are not specifically stated by Paul.

b) “Do not handle” prohibits the touching of certain objects.

i) An example from Jewish ritual is the touching of a corpse (cp. Num. 19:16).

ii) In a similar manner, initiates in certain mystery cults were forbidden to touch

anything dead, animal or human (e.g. Idaean mysteries).

iii) Other cultic prohibitions included not dipping one‟s hands in the water vessel

at the entrance of a temple, not to pick up what has fallen from a table, etc.

c) “Do not taste” prohibits the consumption of certain foods.

i) The dietary restrictions may have been according to Jewish ritual (Lev.

11:1ff).

ii) In addition, various cults instituted their own dietary taboos. The Orphics

were prohibited from eating meat, beans and wine.

iii) Of course this is a characteristic of the last days (1 Tim. 4:3).

iv) In addition, Christ declared all foods clean and all food should be received

with thanksgiving (Mark 7:19 cp. Acts 10:15, 1 Tim. 4:4-5)

d) “Do not touch” is closely related to “do not handle.”

i) However, “do not touch” may refer to touching in a hostile sense (cp. Heb.

11:28).

ii) Certain mystery cults advocated vegetarianism and prohibited harming (i.e.

touching) any animals for food. Animals were considered to have souls so to

kill an animal was tantamount to murder (e.g. Eleusinian mysteries).

iii) Sound doctrine states that the life of an animal is its blood and only humans

possess souls (Lev. 17:10-14 cp. Gen 2:7).

17) Throughout history, ascetics have often advocated self denial as a means to achieve

various levels of virtue or “spirituality” (i.e. Stoics, Yoga practitioners, etc.).

18) Ultimately, these humanistic systems are apostate and ineffectual.

19) True spiritual growth is based on the consistent intake and application of sound

doctrine over the course of a believer‟s ph. 2 (cp. 2 Tim. 4:7-8).

1

Vocabulary:

Colossians 2:22 (which all refer to things destined to perish with the using)-- in

accordance with the commandments and teachings of men?

1) “Which all refer to things”: the relative pronoun, o[j- HOS, “which [things]” + the

verb, eivmi,- EIMI “to be” + the adjective, pa/j- PAS, “all, each, every.” Translate

“which things are all.”

2) “Destined to perish”: the preposition, eivj- EIS, “for, to” + the noun, fqora,- PHTHORA, “deterioration, corruption, subjection to decay.” Translate “subject to

decay.”

3) “With the using”: the noun, avpo,crhsij- APOCHRESIS, “consuming, using up.” The

noun occurs 1x in the N.T. Translate “by the using up.”

4) “In accordance with”: the preposition, kata,- KATA, “in accordance with,

corresponding to.”

5) “Commandments”: the noun, e;ntalma- ENTALMA, “that which is commanded as

officially binding, a commandment, precept or ordinance.”

6) “Teachings”: the noun, didaskali,a- DIDASKALIA, “teaching, instruction.”

7) “Men”: the noun, a;nqrwpoj- ANTHROPOS, “a man, human being.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:22 “(which things are all subject to decay by the using up)-- in accordance

with the commandments and teachings of men”

2

Colossians 2:22 “(which things are all subject to decay by the using up)-- in accordance

with the commandments and teachings of men”

Analysis of vs. 22:

1) Paul begins vs. 22 with a parenthetical statement.

2) “Which things” refers to the unspecified objects of the verbs in vs. 21.

3) For example, in the command “Do not handle,” Paul doesn‟t specify which “item(s)”

were not to be handled. Nor does he spell out which “foodstuff(s)” are referred to in

the prohibition,” Do not taste.”

4) The explicit identification of these objects was unnecessary as the believer‟s in

Colossae and environs (i.e. Laodicea, Hieropolis) were familiar with the prohibitions.

5) The prohibitions referred to things which were “all subject to decay by using up.”

a) The “decay” refers to the breakdown or deterioration of organic matter.

b) The Greek text indicates that all these things are designed to perish through

consumption.

c) As an obvious example, food is designed to be eaten and metabolized (i.e. decay)

after consumption (cp. 2 Peter 2:12).

d) A restrictive or non-restrictive diet doesn‟t commend a believer to God (cp. 1 Cor.

8:8).

i) Food itself doesn‟t contribute to or inhibit spiritual growth (cp. Matt. 15:11,

17-18).

ii) Food and the stomach are not permanent (1 Cor. 6:13).

6) In addition to being perishable, all these “things” lack any spiritual substance or

reality (cp. Col. 2:17).

7) “In accordance with the commandments and teachings of men” marks the resumption

of the primary discussion.

a) In this phrase, Paul refers back to the “decrees” (dogmati,zw- DOGMATIDZO) he

mentioned in vs. 20.

b) Furthermore, the “decrees” are based on human requirements and wisdom. They

were fundamentally flawed due to their origin.

c) Paul has already warned the Colossian believers not to be taken captive by false

doctrine that is based on the traditions of men (Col. 2:8 cp. Mark 7:7-8).

8) Those who follow the “doctrines” (didaskali,a- DIDASKALIA) of men strive for

happiness and security but are unable to achieve it (Prov. 14:12 cp. Eph. 4:14. Also 1

Tim. 4:1ff.).

9) Only the believer who adheres to sound doctrine will be satisfied and progress to

spiritual maturity. Adherence to sound doctrine is based on the consistent thinking,

saying, and application of Divine viewpoint (cp. Psa. 128:2, 1 Tim. 1:10, 4:6, 6:3,

Titus 1:9, 2:1ff).

1

Vocabulary:

Colossians 2:23 These are matters which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in

self-made religion and self-abasement and severe treatment of the body, but are of no

value against fleshly indulgence.

1) “Matters”: the noun, lo,goj- LOGOS, “a word, a statement, a matter.”

2) “Have”: the participle, e;cw-ECHO, “to have.” Translate “having.”

3) “Wisdom”: the noun, sofi,a- SOPHIA, “wisdom.”

4) “Self-made religion”: the noun, evqeloqrhski,a- ETHELOTHREKIA,” self-made or do

it yourself religion.”

5) “Self-abasement”: the noun, tapeinofrosu,nh- TAPEINOPHROSUNE, “humility,

self-abasement, false humility.” Translate “false humility.”

6) “Severe treatment of the body”: the noun, avfeidi,a- APHEIDIA, “unsparing, severe

treatment” + “body”: the noun, sw/ma- SOMA, “a body.”

7) “No value”: the negative particle, ouvk- OUK, “not, not” + the noun, timh,- TIME,

“price, value” + the adjective, ti.j- TIS, “anyone, anything.”

8) “Fleshly indulgence”: the noun, plhsmonh,- PLESMONE, “satisfaction, gratification,

indulgence” + the noun, sa,rx- SARX, “flesh.”

Revised translation:

Colossians 2:23 These are matters having, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-

made religion and false humility and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value

against fleshly indulgence.

2

Colossians 2:23 These are matters having, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-

made religion and false humility and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value

against fleshly indulgence.

Analysis of vs. 23:

1) The term “matters” refers to “the commandments and teachings of men.”

2) In a superficial sense they have the appearance of wisdom but the reality of sound

doctrine was lacking.

3) In our verse, the appearance of “wisdom” (sofi,a- SOPHIA) extends to three areas:

a) “Self-made religion” refers to worship of or devotion to something or someone

which is a by product of one‟s own desires and initiative.

i) In context, angelic worship is an example (Col. 2:18).

ii) The Greco-Roman culture was permeated with the worship of pagan deities

(e.g. Dionysus, Apollo).

iii) In a general sense, the term may refer to a lifestyle that disregards Divine

viewpoint (cp. Phil. 3:19)

b) As in vs. 18, “humility” (tapeinofrosu,nh- TAPEINOPHROSUNE) is used in a

negative sense. Hence the translation “false humility.”

i) “False humility” was often demonstrated by overt displays of self promotion

especially during a fast.

ii) The goal was to impress others (cp. Matt. 6:16).

iii) As believers we are to follow the example set by Christ. We are commanded

to be humble and manifest humility towards others (Phil. 2:3-8, Col. 3:12, 1

Peter 5:5).

c) “Severe treatment of the body” refers to ascetic practices.

i) Ascetic practices would include: fasting, sleep deprivation, exposure to the

elements, and beatings (self-flagellation, etc.).

ii) Typically, ascetics abuse their body in order to reach a higher “spiritual” state.

iii) Many believe that spiritual growth is a result of extreme physical discipline.

iv) In contrast, the adjusted believer understands that spiritual growth is a result

of spiritual discipline (i.e. FGHS, intake/application of Bible doctrine- 1 Cor.

2:12-16, Col. 1:9-10).

4) No doubt many of the tenets of the Colossian philosophy seemed to be reasonable

but, in reality, it was utterly deficient and ineffectual in dealing with lusts of the OSN.

5) The FGHS and the obedience to sound doctrine and not the doctrines of men will

enable the believer to combat the lusts generated by the flesh (Rom. 6:17-18, Gal.

5:16 cp. 1 Kings 18:28).