Colossians 2 - part 2

Col 2:4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. (ESV)

What is it that will guard us against the plausible arguments of false teaching? Is it a theology or philosophy class? Is it a better catechism? Is it taking notes during the sermon, or maybe a better, deeper preacher? Is it more Bible studies? It is none of those, although they seem to be our preferred methods of trying to inoculate people against false teaching.

Colossians 2:2-3 give us a different perspective. These two verses list three things: 1. Encouragement 2. Understanding 3. Knowledge. But here us where it gets interesting. What is the source of this encouragement, understanding and knowledge? First, the author's yearning is that their "hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love." So the first protection against false teaching is the encouragement that comes from the fellowship of love within the Body of Christ. We were never intended to live the Christian life on our own. It is a community of faith as much as a personal faith.

Second, the writer desires that out of that community of faith the Colossians "reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding." Perhaps this is where training comes in, but notice that this understanding also flows out of the fellowship of love within the body. This understanding is called "riches." There is a wealth found in biblical understanding that is worth more then all the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals put together. The understanding results not in the ability to pass theology tests with flying colors, but to experience the wealth of full assurance.

Thirdly, Paul writes that his desire of for them to have "the knowledge of God 's mystery." This knowledge, however, does not come from theology classes, Bible studies and preaching. It comes from knowing Christ, "in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge." Sitting under good preaching and teaching is valuable, but if one never comes to know Christ through experience then they have not been adequately prepared against false teaching.

Certainly churches and individuals can err on the side of emphasizing experience without understanding, but it is just as dangerous to emphasize understanding without experience. Having full and precise knowledge of God's mystery is necessary, but that knowledge is found in the person of Christ. Having the assurance of understanding and the encouragement to stand firm in the faith is essential but they result from hearts knit together in love. Relationship with God and his people are what protect us against the plausible arguments of false teaching.

Father, thank you for the people you have placed around me and for the grace and mercy I daily experience in Christ. May I grow in my appreciation for those gifts.

By His grace,
Rick Weinert

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