Dead to the Flesh

Colossians 2:8-23

Verses 8-15 are specifically refuting the doctrine of Gnosticism. The Colossians were being told that the body and soul were separate and that it didn't matter what the body did since it could never be redeemed. However, Paul reminds them that Christ was fully God and fully man. Therefore, they could not argue and say that the flesh is only evil because if it was, God could not dwell in it. He also says that they have been circumcised in Christ. Meaning that the flesh has been removed and should be considered as dead. They are now living for Christ and not for themselves. Paul also conveys this truth in Gal 2:20 where he says, "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the {life} which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." This passage reflects that verse as Paul goes on to talk about being buried with Christ, and raised to life. This is a spiritual dying of the flesh and raising of eternal life in Christ. Verses 13-15 reminds us of the incredible nature of this gift. Christ died for sinners, not when they had repented, but before while they were still enemies of God and doers of evil. Christ died for me before I surrendered my life to His will. Christ died for you before you had put off the flesh. And now His death and resurrection brings forgiveness of our sins, past, present, and future. This act demonstrated that He was ruler over all.
Because of Christ's love and forgiveness towards us, because of He is ruler over all, we don't need to fear man and His rules. The Christian life is not about rules and regulations, it is about faith and love for Christ which results in obedience. The Gnostics were submitting to man's rules about what to eat and drink and touch, but they were neglecting some God's laws. In Galatians 4, Paul tells the Galatians that if they desire to be under the law for salvation, they must keep the whole law. That is, the only way the Law can save you is through perfection. This of course is impossible therefore, we must not be focused on man's rules, but God's commands and His will for our lives.

I want you guys to help out with application.

Can you think of some ways that Gnostic thinking is demonstrated today?

What is legalism? Why is it wrong?

Is there any trace of Gnostism in your thinking?

Do you base people's spirituality on their obedience to certain rules that are not found in scripture?