Free From Legalism

Colossians 2:20-23 (NASB95)
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 men?
23 These are matters which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-made religion and self-abasement and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value against fleshly indulgence.

Colossians 2:20-23 states that in Christ we are free from legalistic practices. I describe legalism as commands that are not God-ordained, but man-generated in an attempt to achieve a spiritual goal. In other words, they are practices that are outside of scripture, but lifted up as “a must” in one’s spiritual walk.

An example would be a group of people who believe that if you are to worship God, you must do so in a suit or dress. On the other side are those who believe that, in order to be real and authentic with God, you must dress down. The truth of the matter is that neither are things outlined in scripture as a means for spiritual growth.

Paul reminded the Colossian believers that if they were in Christ, they were free from legalism.

The Word of God is clear on how we as believers are to live, "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17, NASB95) We live our lives following scriptures. We are held accountable and hold our brothers and sisters accountable to the Word of God. We are never to require people to live by man-made decrees as a path to holiness.

Enjoy a life of freedom based on the Word of God.