Die to Legalism
20 If you died with Christ to the elements of this world, why do you live as if you still belonged to the world? Why do you submit to regulations: 21 “Don’t handle, don’t taste, don’t touch”?
Colossians 2:20-21 (CSB)
The apostle Paul aims to prevent the Colossians from diluting their faith with legalistic rules. He recognizes that these strict regulations pose a danger to their trust in Christ. Paul wants them to see that relying on human rules results in a superficial spirituality that lacks the true freedom found only in Christ. Today’s passage challenges us to reflect on our spiritual practices and beliefs. Are they motivated by legalism, traditions, or regulations, or are we truly cultivating a relationship with Christ through faith?
Dead with Christ. Paul examines the life of the Colossians by asking about their relationship with Christ and their adherence to worldly elements. His focus is on helping them realize that in Christ, they have put to death the old self and its regulations. When we die with Christ, we are freed from the letter of the law. True freedom does not come from avoiding the law, but from abiding in Christ. Paul urges the Colossians to experience this freedom and avoid becoming burdened by restrictive rules. This truth remains relevant today—we must seek true freedom only in Christ.
Do not be Deceived. Paul urges the Colossians to avoid tying their worth to their good works. He isn’t criticizing following the law but emphasizes that redemption isn’t gained by rule-keeping. Instead, he wants them to understand that salvation comes through a faith-based relationship with Jesus Christ alone. Only Christ can transform the heart.
Many people today try to earn God's favor and achieve salvation through their actions. They believe that living a good life will earn them a place in eternity with God. However, this mindset is essentially legalism, which misleads people and prevents them from truly encountering Jesus. Ultimately, they fail to develop a genuine relationship with God because they focus on good deeds as a way to earn God's approval.
Legalism seeks to put us in bondage and hold us captive. We can break free from the chains in a relationship with Jesus Christ. Once broken, we must strive to not pick them up again but set our hearts to pursue Christ and grow in our relationship with Him.
QUESTIONS
How do we allow legalism to slip into our lives and how does legalism not align with being dead with Christ?
How can the altar of good keep us from the altar before the Lord?
