Steadfast in Truth
4 I am saying this so that no one will deceive you with arguments that sound reasonable. 5 For I may be absent in body, but I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see how well ordered you are and the strength of your faith in Christ.
Colossians 2:4-5 (CSB)
Followers of Christ constantly face a battle that requires discernment. The voices of the world try to steer believers away from God's ways and push them to adopt worldly practices. The apostle Paul understood this danger and was glad because the Colossians showed they could stay faithful to the Lord and rely on His strength to face these threats. As we are called to stay firm in truth, let's examine the temptations that pull us away from God's path and develop the ability to distinguish God's truth from worldly voices and influences.
The Threat of Deceptive Words. The danger of deceptive words has been present since humanity's fall in Genesis 3. In that chapter, Satan used lies to make Adam and Eve doubt God’s Word, question His authority, and appeal to their fleshly desires to make falsehoods seem acceptable and good. Today, similar tactics are employed by those spreading misleading messages about God's ways, will, and Word. We constantly face the risk of deception that aims to sow doubt about God’s truth. These false words threaten to shake our confidence in the Lord’s authority by appealing to our fleshly appetites. The apostle Paul was aware of this danger and warned the Colossians to recognize the true threat posed by deceptive words.
Rejoice in Their Faithfulness. The apostle Paul recognized that the people in Colossae stayed loyal to the Lord. He observed that they did not succumb to deception but chose to remain committed. Their decision to stay faithful meant they would endure various persecutions and hardships, yet they understood the Lord's expectations. Paul celebrated this because it was evidence of their genuine faith. In a culture that often highlights moral failure, instead of rejoicing over others' fall, let us celebrate the faithfulness of the saints.
Rejoice in Their Strength in the Lord. Paul understood that the faithfulness of the Colossians was not based on their own ability, but on their reliance on the Lord's strength. They allowed God to strengthen their steps and provide the stability needed to overcome the threats around them. Paul was glad to see their dependence on God's power, as it showed they had rooted their lives in Christ. Living rooted in Christ grants us access to the strength needed to remain faithful. This faithfulness, inspired by God's strength, leads to worship and joy.
QUESTIONS
How are the words of this world often a temptation that attempts to deceive us?
What steps can you take to help ground yourself in the Lord to claim victory over the threat of deception?
