The Meaning Behind Colossians 2:11-23: A Commentary

The Context of Colossians

The book of Colossians is a letter from the Apostle Paul to the church in Colossae, a city in Asia Minor. The letter was written in response to concerns that the church was being influenced by false teachings and practices that threatened the purity of the gospel.

Colossians 2:11-23 Explained

In Colossians 2:11-23, Paul addresses these false teachings and emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ for salvation and spiritual growth. He also warns against legalism and the danger of following human traditions.

Verse 11-12: Circumcision of Christ

Paul begins by explaining the spiritual significance of circumcision. He compares physical circumcision to the circumcision of Christ, which is a spiritual circumcision that happens at the moment of salvation. This circumcision is a cutting away of the old self and a putting on of the new self, which is made possible through faith in Christ.

Verse 13-15: Redemption Through Christ

Paul goes on to explain how Christ has redeemed believers from the power of sin and death. He describes how Christ has triumphed over the powers and authorities of this world, making a public spectacle of them on the cross.

Verse 16-17: Freedom in Christ

Paul then warns against legalism and the danger of following human traditions. He emphasizes that in Christ, believers have freedom from the rules and regulations of the world.

Verse 18-19: False Teachers and the Danger of Mysticism

Paul addresses the false teachings that were influencing the church in Colossae. He warns against those who would disqualify believers from the fullness of Christ and lead them into a false spirituality based on visions, angels, and other mystical experiences.

Verse 20-23: The Futility of Human Effort

Paul concludes by emphasizing the futility of relying on human effort and traditions for spiritual growth. He encourages believers to hold fast to Christ, who is the head of the church and the source of all spiritual life.

Application for Today

The teachings of Colossians 2:11-23 are just as relevant for us today as they were for the church in Colossae. We too are in danger of being influenced by false teachings and practices that threaten the purity of the gospel. We too need to be reminded of the sufficiency of Christ for salvation and spiritual growth. We must also be on guard against legalism and the danger of following human traditions. We must resist the temptation to rely on our own efforts and instead hold fast to Christ, who is the source of all spiritual life.

Conclusion

In Colossians 2:11-23, Paul encourages believers to put their faith in Christ alone for salvation and spiritual growth. He warns against legalism and the danger of following human traditions. His teachings are just as relevant for us today as they were for the church in Colossae, and we would do well to heed his words and hold fast to Christ.