How can you apply Colossians 2:20 to resist legalistic religious practices today? The Heart of the Verse “If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its regulations?” (Colossians 2:20) Dead with Christ—What That Means Today • Died means finished. In God’s ledger, your old self was nailed to the cross with Jesus (Romans 6:6). • Elementary principles = the world’s ABCs of earning favor by rule-keeping. • Since you no longer live under that system, regulations invented to “improve” salvation have no claim on you (Galatians 2:19–21). Spotting Legalism in Modern Disguise • “Good Christians don’t …”—extra rules set up as spiritual litmus tests. • Spiritual scorecards—measuring worth by quiet-time length, church attendance totals, or platform-approved clothing. • Religious fearmongering—implying God’s love fluctuates with your performance. • Man-made traditions elevated to near-Scripture status (Mark 7:6-8). Practical Steps to Resist Legalistic Pressure 1. Rehearse your death certificate – Every time a rule threatens to define you, declare Colossians 2:20 and Galatians 5:1 aloud. 2. Ask the two-question filter – Is this command clearly taught in Scripture? – Does obeying it flow from love for Christ or fear of people? 3. Keep the gospel central – Memorize Ephesians 2:8-9; recite it when voices say, “Do more to be accepted.” 4. Choose Spirit-led community – Surround yourself with believers who emphasize grace (Hebrews 10:24-25). 5. Celebrate freedom responsibly – Freedom is not license for sin (Galatians 5:13); it’s liberty to serve in joy. 6. Practice Sabbath for the soul, not scorekeeping – Rest in Christ’s finished work—“It is finished” silences “Do more.” 7. Encourage, don’t enforce – When teaching others, point to Scripture, not personal preferences (Romans 14:1-4). Freed to Walk in Spirit-Led Obedience • The Spirit replaces external pressure with internal desire (Romans 8:2). • Good works become fruit, not wages (Ephesians 2:10). • Love fulfills the law far better than rule-pushing ever could (Romans 13:8-10). Verses to Keep on the Fridge • Galatians 5:1—“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free…” • Romans 6:14—“For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace.” • 2 Corinthians 3:17—“Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” • Matthew 11:28-30—Jesus’ yoke is easy, His burden light. |
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