See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8 (Colossians and Philemon)
One of the prison Epistles, this letter to the Church in Colosse focuses on the Godhood of Christ. Pa insert a Risen Savior into their belief, while clinging to the security of other gods and practices. They looked to their false gods to ward off evil spirits and bad karma. Angels were considered intermediaries and mysticism was common. To believe that Christ defeated death is to be transformed from the things of this world and join in celebration of an everlasting, victorious state.
It wasn’t just as simple as, “Really!? That many gods?” The Colossians prided themselves on a deeper, and higher school of thought, blending Greek, Jewish and Oriental religions. Every spiritual base was covered and everyone was happy. BUT! God does not need addendums. He is the whole picture, The Creator of all things created, not a little piece of the puzzle.
Set your heart and mind on Christ, the invisible image of God. You need no other, He is sufficient.
Love,
Gretchen
P.S. The letter to Paul’s wealthy friend Philemon is regarding Philemon’s slave that stole property and money and made his way to Rome. There, Onesimus became destitute and went to Paul. He finds salvation and must make amends for his crime. Paul encourages Philemon to accept Onesimus’ restitution, and for them to reconcile, not as master to minion, but Christian to Christian, just as we as sinner are reconciled to God.
Love Ya!
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8 (Colossians and Philemon)
One of the prison Epistles, this letter to the Church in Colosse focuses on the Godhood of Christ. Pa insert a Risen Savior into their belief, while clinging to the security of other gods and practices. They looked to their false gods to ward off evil spirits and bad karma. Angels were considered intermediaries and mysticism was common. To believe that Christ defeated death is to be transformed from the things of this world and join in celebration of an everlasting, victorious state.
It wasn’t just as simple as, “Really!? That many gods?” The Colossians prided themselves on a deeper, and higher school of thought, blending Greek, Jewish and Oriental religions. Every spiritual base was covered and everyone was happy. BUT! God does not need addendums. He is the whole picture, The Creator of all things created, not a little piece of the puzzle.
Set your heart and mind on Christ, the invisible image of God. You need no other, He is sufficient.
Love,
Gretchen
P.S. The letter to Paul’s wealthy friend Philemon is regarding Philemon’s slave that stole property and money and made his way to Rome. There, Onesimus became destitute and went to Paul. He finds salvation and must make amends for his crime. Paul encourages Philemon to accept Onesimus’ restitution, and for them to reconcile, not as master to minion, but Christian to Christian, just as we as sinner are reconciled to God.
Love Ya!