In what ways can we ensure our spiritual practices align with biblical teachings? Scripture Focus “Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you. Such a person also goes into great detail about what he has seen; he is puffed up with idle notions by his unspiritual mind.” (Colossians 2:18) Recognizing the Warning • False humility often masks pride • Angel-centered devotion shifts honor from Christ • Vision-driven claims can elevate private experiences above Scripture • All four errors flow from an “unspiritual mind” disconnected from the Head (v. 19) Principles for Alignment • Cling to Christ as the only Head – “Holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body… grows with a growth that is from God.” (Colossians 2:19) – “Abide in Me, and I in you.” (John 15:4-5) • Submit every practice to Scripture – “All Scripture is God-breathed… so that the man of God may be complete.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) – “They examined the Scriptures daily to see if these teachings were true.” (Acts 17:11) • Reject man-made or mystical additions – “They worship Me in vain; they teach as doctrine the precepts of men.” (Matthew 15:9) – “You hold to human tradition.” (Mark 7:8) • Test every spirit and message – “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits.” (1 John 4:1) – “Even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary… let him be under a curse.” (Galatians 1:8) • Pursue genuine humility and Spirit-produced fruit – “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (James 4:6) – “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” (Galatians 5:22-23) Practical Steps Toward Faithful Practice • Read, study, and memorize the Word daily, treating its commands as literal and authoritative • Weigh every worship form, ministry method, or spiritual discipline against clear biblical teaching • Keep Christ’s finished work—His death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)—at the center of gatherings and personal devotion • Refuse any practice that shifts focus to angels, saints, or created things (Revelation 19:10) • Walk in accountable fellowship with a Bible-honoring church, inviting loving correction when drift appears • Let the Spirit’s fruit, not spectacular experiences, serve as the primary evidence of spiritual vitality Encouragement from the Word • “For the word of God is living and active…” (Hebrews 4:12) • “He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6) • “Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling…” (Jude 24-25) Staying rooted in Scripture and centered on Christ safeguards every spiritual practice, ensuring it reflects God’s revealed truth rather than human imagination. |
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