This verse addresses the danger of false spiritual practices and highlights the importance of being rooted in Christ. The apostle Paul continues his warning to the Colossian believers about the dangers of false spiritual practices. He urges them not to allow anyone to rob them of their spiritual prize through deceptive teachings and empty practices that divert their focus from Christ.
Paul begins by cautioning against a "voluntary humility" that is self-imposed and lacks a proper understanding of true humility before God. This false humility stems from an inflated sense of spirituality and a desire to appear pious or enlightened. It is not rooted in a genuine recognition of our dependence on God's grace and righteousness.
The "worshipping of the angels" mentioned in verse 18 refers to the elevation of angels to a position of veneration and worship that goes beyond their rightful role as servants of God. This practice was likely influenced by certain false teachings or mystical beliefs prevalent at the time. Paul warns against placing angels as mediators or objects of worship, as it detracts from the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ as the only true mediator between God and humanity.
Paul emphasizes that those who engage in these false practices are dwelling in things they have not truly seen. Their spirituality is based on speculative ideas, imaginative experiences, or deceptive teachings rather than on the truth revealed through Jesus Christ. It leads them astray from the reality of Christ's redemptive work and the power of His resurrection.
Moreover, Paul points out that such individuals are "vainly puffed up by their fleshly mind." This highlights the pride and self-centeredness that accompany false spirituality. Instead of being rooted in the truth of Christ, their minds are filled with worldly ideas and humanistic philosophies that exalt themselves and undermine the authority of Christ.
In contrast to the false practices and teachings, Paul encourages the Colossian believers to hold firmly to the Head, who is Christ. He is the source of their spiritual growth and the foundation of their faith. By remaining connected to Christ, the entire body of believers is supplied and knit together, growing with the growth that comes from God.
The imagery of joints and ligaments highlights the interconnectedness and unity of the body of Christ. Each member of the body has a vital role to play in its growth and function. It is through the Head, Christ, that the body receives its nourishment, strength, and guidance. The growth of the body is not dependent on human effort or the adoption of false spiritual practices but on God's work in and through His people.
This passage teaches us important lessons about the dangers of false spirituality and the necessity of remaining rooted in Christ. It reminds us to be vigilant against deceptive teachings and practices that can rob us of the true prize of our faith. Instead, we are to hold firmly to Christ, acknowledging His authority and sufficiency in our lives.
As believers, we are called to embrace genuine humility before God, recognizing our complete dependence on Him for salvation and spiritual growth. We are to reject any form of worship or veneration that detracts from the worship due to Christ alone. Our focus should be on Him as the Head of the body, the source of our nourishment, unity, and spiritual growth.
In conclusion, Colossians 2:18-19 warns against false humility, the worship of angels, and deceptive practices that can lead us astray from Christ. It emphasizes the importance of holding firmly to Christ as the Head of the body, finding our nourishment and growth in Him. May we remain rooted in Christ, discerning and avoiding false teachings, and allowing God to shape and grow us as part of His unified body.
Colossians 2:18-19. Let no one rob you of your prize by a voluntary humility and worshiping of the angels, dwelling in the things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding firmly to the Head, from whom all the body, being supplied and knit together through the joints and ligaments, grows with God’s growth.