Colossians 2:20-23
20 “If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the world, why, as if you were living in the world, do you submit yourself to decrees, such as, 21 “Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!” 22 (which all refer to things destined to perish with use)—in accordance with the commandments and teachings of man? 23 These are matters which do have the appearance of wisdom in self-made religion and humility and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value against fleshly indulgence.”
Verse 20: Paul reminds the believers in Colossae that they have died to the traditions of men and the works-based religion of the world. As a result, they are no longer bound by the rules and regulations of the world. Believers should not submit to these regulations as though we are still ensnared by them. Rather, Christians can enjoy the freedom given to us by Christ.
Verse 21: Paul is referring to the legalistic rules and regulations that were being imposed on the believers. He challenges them not to be entangled in such external restrictions. Instead, the focus should be on the freedom and grace found in Christ. Christ does not prescribe rules for us. He wants us to live freely in him, making decision compatible with our new hearts.
Verse 22: Paul emphasizes that these rules and regulations are temporary and will ultimately perish. They are based on human commands and teachings, rather than on the truth of the gospel. There is no compatibility between the gospel and human commands and teachings. To live according to human tradition is to live a life of trust in rules for spiritual living and not Christ.
Verse 23: Paul concludes by acknowledging that these regulations may seem wise and spiritual on the surface. However, they are ultimately ineffective in restraining sensual indulgence. In Galatians, Paul offers the only real solution: living by the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). If we live by the Spirit of Christ, we will not satisfy the desires of the flesh. Likewise, living by the flesh will always breed false humility and pseudo-spiritual growth.
