Don't Let Them Do It
Don’t Let Them Do It
Scripture Reading: Colossians 2:16-23
Paul warns us in Colossians 2:16-23: “Let no one pass judgment on you” and “Let no one disqualify you.” These commands counter the false teachings of the Gnostics, who believed spirituality came through asceticism—outwardly controlling physical desires—while neglecting the heart's deeper issues.
Gnosticism, a belief that the physical world was evil and only the spirit was good, led them to create strict rules about what to eat, drink, or observe. Yet, these false teachers tried to impose this legalism on the church, using judgment and guilt to manipulate others. Paul reminds the church that holiness does not come through human regulations or harsh disciplines but through Christ alone.
When Paul writes, “Let no one judge you,” he means we shouldn’t let others' judgments shape our obedience to Christ. No amount of rule-keeping can replace the righteousness we already have through Jesus. In verse 20, Paul asks why the Colossians are submitting to human regulations when they have died to the world’s standards through Christ. True spiritual growth doesn’t come from external rules but from the inner transformation Christ offers.
At the heart of this issue is the gospel itself. The Gnostics were adding to the gospel, claiming more than Christ’s death and resurrection was needed for spiritual maturity. But by submitting to these false rules, believers risk distorting the truth of the gospel and hindering their spiritual freedom.
In our lives, we too face the temptation of legalism—trying to earn God’s approval by keeping rules, either imposed by others or self-made. But remember: our righteousness is in Christ alone, and His grace is sufficient. Are there areas in your life where you’ve allowed human traditions or guilt to control your walk with Christ? Ask God to reveal where you need to experience the freedom of His grace.
Prayer
Lord, help me resist the temptation to submit to man-made rules that distort the gospel. Let me live in the freedom Your grace provides, trusting that I am made whole through Christ alone. Amen.
