Teachings of the World

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is,seated at the right hand of God. ² Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. ³ For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. ⁴ When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory
-Colossians 3:1-4 (English Standard Version)

The end of Colossians chapter 2 talks about why we submit to the rules of the world. Paul says, in Colossians 2:20-23, " Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, (Touch not; taste not; handle not; Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men? Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body: not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh. (King James Version)" Paul is teaching us that we must steer clear of commandments and doctrines that are not part of Scripture. We live in a world that muddies the water of religion. We live in a world where we try and mix parts of all world religions to create our own custom one. Even in Christianity, we have many denominations, and each denomination teaches something slightly different. Paul asks, in Colossians 2:20-21, "Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world are ye subject to ordinances, after the commandments and doctrines of men?" In other words, Paul is asking why we subject ourselves to the teachings of the world, that are masquerading as the things of God, but are really doctrines that men thought up? We, as Christians, continue to judge and condemn people based upon our own teachings, our own doctrines, our own commandments, while ignoring what Scripture says. 

Paul goes on to say, in Colossians 3:1-2, "If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is,seated at the right hand of God. ² Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." He teaches us to seek those things that come from Heaven, and not after those things based upon earthly things. Follow after the doctrines and commandments found in the Word of God, not those based upon earthly things. Why? Verse 3 reads, "For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God." Because we have died to those earthly ordinances, and our life is now with God through Jesus. What are you seeking today? The truth of the Word, or the lies of man? Think About It.