What practical steps can prevent us from being deceived by "human commands"? Why Human Commands Are Dangerous • Colossians 2:23 warns that rules “have an appearance of wisdom… but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.” • Matthew 15:9 echoes the danger: “They worship Me in vain; they teach as doctrine the precepts of men.” • Anything that looks spiritual yet replaces Christ’s finished work undermines true holiness. Stay Rooted in Christ Alone • Colossians 2:10: “You have been made complete in Christ.” A complete Savior leaves no room for extra requirements. • Guard the heart by rehearsing the gospel daily—Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection fully satisfy God (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Measure every new rule by one question: Does it magnify Christ or eclipse Him? Fill Your Mind With the Word • Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans for examining “the Scriptures daily to see if these teachings were true.” • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds that “All Scripture is God-breathed… so that the man of God may be complete.” Practical helps: – Read an entire Bible book at a time to keep context clear. – Memorize key passages (Psalm 119:11). – Use reliable study tools, but let Scripture interpret Scripture. Test Every Teaching • 1 John 4:1: “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” • Galatians 1:8 warns against “a gospel contrary to the one we preached.” Checklist: – Does it agree with clear biblical teaching? – Does it add requirements for acceptance with God? – Does it promote humility or pride? Walk in Dependence on the Spirit • John 16:13: “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” • Ask for discernment before embracing a practice; the Spirit leads, human commands push. Stay Connected to Christ’s Body • Ephesians 4:14-15 speaks of maturing together so we are “no longer infants, tossed by waves and carried about by every wind of teaching.” Practical helps: – Submit to a Bible-preaching local church. – Invite mature believers to speak into questionable teachings. – Practice mutual accountability anchored in Scripture, not personal preferences. Keep the Gospel Central in Everyday Choices • Colossians 2:20-22 shows that man-made regulations “perish with use.” Place gospel freedom at the center of decisions about food, days, and disciplines. • Romans 14:17: “The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Conclusion—Living Free, Living Holy By anchoring ourselves in Christ, immersing our minds in His Word, testing every idea, relying on the Spirit, and walking in gospel-centered community, we resist the allure of human commands and enjoy the true freedom that produces real holiness. |
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