Superior Word Daily Devotional Study in Colossians

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 1:27, 7 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 2017

Friday, 7 April 2017



To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27



The words “To them” are referring to the saints as stated in the previous verse. It is to the saints that “God willed.” The words are emphatic in the Greek. Thus it reads, “To whom has willed God…” It was God’s sovereign choice alone “to make known what are the riches.”



The “riches” of God are many. The word indicates a great amount in number or quantity, and thus abundance. These riches are described by Paul in Romans 2 and include His 1) “goodness” – this is His benign nature. He is a compassionate God who is in no way arbitrary or vindictive; 2) His “forbearance” – this reflects God’s restraint. When judgment would be expected under almost any conceivable circumstance, He still withholds His wrath, understanding that we are prone to sin from birth; and 3) because of His forbearance, He is also “long-suffering.” This concept shows that not only does He withhold His wrath, but He is also “slow to anger” as is noted in Exodus 34:6, 7 –



“And the Lord passed before him and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children and the children’s children to the third and the fourth generation.”



Such riches as these are included in “the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles.” The Old Testament deals almost exclusively with a single line of people who became Israel. God revealed Himself to them, and they were considered the people of God. However, in Christ, that honorable title now extends to any and all. This is the “mystery” that Paul speaks of. He, the apostle to the Gentiles” is making it fully known to the Gentile people of the world who now can share in these riches of God.



He makes this explicitly known by finishing with, “which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” The words, “Christ in you” indicate what has occurred when a person (Jew or Gentile) believes in the finished work of Jesus. The moment that belief is exercised, he is sealed with the Holy Spirit, and is thus saved. He moves from Adam to Jesus and has a new and glorious hope. There is a slight variation in some manuscripts concerning the words, “which is Christ in you.” Some have it as masculine, and thus it would be referring to the riches. Others have it as neuter, and thus it would be referring to the mystery.



Either way, the fact that Christ is now in those who believe, this has become our “hope of glory.” There is an article in front of glory, and so it more accurately reads, “the glory.” Those who have received Christ have not yet obtained the full measure of the glory of Christ. Rather, it indicates a future hope which will be realized when He returns for us and we are glorified. It is a glory for which we have been destined, and nothing will thwart its coming and consummation in us. Such is the hope of the believer in Christ. It is a grounded hope in the sure promises of God.



Life application: When we stand at the graveside of a believer in Christ, we have the absolute guarantee that death cannot hold that person. There is a time for mourning because we will miss the presence of the one that we have cherished and shared in life with, but there should also be a sense of joy that the great and eternal promises of God cannot be overcome by the death which we have faced. It is but a temporary separation which will be ended with the blast of the trumpet and the gathering together of the saints of God.



Most gracious heavenly Father, thank You for the sure and eternal promises we possess because of what You have done for us in Christ Jesus. We have a certain hope that the troubles of this life are temporary. They will pass away, and all the sadness and loss of this life will be forgotten. Your saints will rise to eternal life, and the riches which lie ahead are far greater than anything we now possess. And best of all, we will be in Your glorious presence for all eternity. Thank You for what You have done for us in Christ Jesus. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 1:28, 8 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, APRIL 8, 2017

Saturday, 8 April 2017



Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. Colossians 1:28



“Him” is speaking of “Christ” as referred to throughout the passage, and also in the preceding verse. In the words “Him we preach,” the “we” is in the emphatic position. Thus, he is including Epaphras of verse 7, and Timothy who was included in verse 1. He is probably also referring to true apostles who would come and preach Jesus Christ in the manner of himself and these others. In other words, anyone who does not preach Him in the same manner is to be rejected.



Next he says “warning every man.” The word is nouthetéō, and it means “admonish through instruction.” This is particularly in appeals to the mind in order to supply substance in doctrine and spiritual matters. It gives the sense of exerting positive pressure on another person’s logic or reason. Therefore, the word “warning” which is repeated from the archaic KJV is better translated as “admonish.” What “warning” once meant has taken on a different force in modern English which is not found in Paul’s thoughts.



In addition to admonishment, he says, “and teaching.” Whereas the admonishment is directed to those who have already been taught, and which looks to correctly walking in accord with doctrine, or repenting and turning back to correct doctrine, the teaching looks to those who are uneducated in matters, and who need to learn instruction. This then is directed to their intellect in order for them to obtain the necessary information that they lack.



Paul uses the word “every” in both admonishing and in teaching, and then again in the next clause as well, in order to “emphasize the universality of the Gospel against the intellectual exclusiveness encouraged by the false teachers” (Vincent’s Word Studies). Whereas false teachers claim exclusive knowledge that they alone posses, the Gospel is open to all and can be understood by all. The only thing exclusive about the words of Scripture are that they are revealed as God determines, and also by study and contemplation by those who would desire deeper knowledge. However, what is revealed is open to all.



His next words, “in all wisdom,” are given to oppose “the esoteric and exoteric wisdom represented by the false teacher; higher knowledge for the few philosophic minds, and blind faith for the masses. In Christian teaching the highest wisdom is freely open to all” (Vincent’s Word Studies). As you can see, Paul’s letter is not only one of instruction on what is correct concerning Christ, it is also a letter warning against what is incorrect. It is a cult-buster if one properly uses it in that manner. Hence education in the book of Colossians, as well as in all Scripture, is vital for sound doctrine.



Finally Paul says that this admonishment and teaching is done so “that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” This corresponds to his words of verse 22 which said that Christ’s work was intended “to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight.” It is a perfection which finds its source in Christ, not in wisdom of the mind, or a perfection of the body through asceticism. Rather, it is through instruction in the work of Christ, and in the application of that instruction to our lives that we will be perfected until the day He comes to finally and fully perfect us.



Life application: The Bible is given for life’s doctrine and practice. We cannot grow in Christ without it and we err when we think that mere life-application sermons which tickle our ears will satisfactorily help us to grow spiritually. If you or a loved one isn’t actively reading the Bible and following through with Bible studies, you are not living in accord with the instructions found in the Bible itself. Turn off the TV and open the Bible. Get to it there, friend.



What a wonderful word You have given to us, O God. Help us not to neglect reading and studying it. Yes, there are things which take up our time, but how many of them are really that important? How can it be that we have time for 3 or 4 hours of TV a day, but we don’t have time for 30 minutes of reading Your word? Help us to get our priorities right, and help us to fill our time with that which is pleasing to You. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 1:29, 9 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, APRIL 9, 2017

Sunday, 9 April 2017



To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily. Colossians 1:29



Paul completes Chapter 1 by moving from the third person to the first person. After this, in Chapter 2, he will continue speaking in the first person, directly giving them words of council and admonition. The words, “To this” refer to the previous verse where it said, “…we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” The transition to the singular person then occurs. In essence, “It is for this reason we do this, and for this reason I follow through with it.”



He then notes that, it is for this goal that “I also labor.” The word means to labor with both physical and mental strength to the point of weariness. Paul would exhaust himself in order to bring every man to perfection in Christ Jesus. In further explanation of that, he says that he is “striving according to His working.” The word translated as “striving,” agónizomai, indicates a struggle as if one is engaged in a wrestling match or in a battle. One can see that this is a root of the modern word for “agony.”



The words, “His working” is referring to Christ Jesus. The word is energeia, and Paul’s use of it is that of God’s power being supplied to him and through him. It is as if he was a machine, plugged into a receptacle. In that state, he was receiving energy necessary to move from one task to another because of this external supply coming into him. One can see that this is where our modern term “energy” is derived from. He was able to meet the challenges set before him because of this power which, as he says, “works in me mightily.”



This mighty power is the word dunamis. It is God’s power, supplied to him, which then results in powerful deeds and successful accomplishments. This is the root of our modern term for “dynamite.” Paul was chosen by God to transmit the message of the gospel to the Gentiles. He both labored with all of his might, and he relied fully on the power of God to continue to meet every challenge which came before him.



Life application: God has fashioned each of us to accomplish certain things, if we are willing to expend ourselves in doing them. But He hasn’t left us to simply wear ourselves out in the process. He will supply us with everything we need in order to continue to work effectively for Him. Let us not trust in our own strength, but rely on the Lord who is the One who has set the plan into motion, and who will see it through to its completion.



Lord God, there are times when we get weary from the labors we are engaged in, but if they are labors for You, and if You intend for them to be completed, You will give us the strength necessary to accomplish them. Help us to trust in You, to rely on You, and to allow You to be our Source of strength as we continue to labor for You. Surely Your power is sufficient in and through us to accomplish all things! Thank You for this assurance. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:1, 10 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, APRIL 10, 2017

Monday, 10 April 2017



For I want you to know what a great conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh, Colossians 2:1



To open Chapter 2 (remember though that chapter divisions didn’t exist at this time), Paul says, “For I want you to know…” The words are given to show that what his heart feels is what he is trying to convey, knowing that if they understood these emotions, they would be truly affected concerning his words. More commonly, Paul would say, “I would not have you to be ignorant,” such as in 1 Corinthians 12:1. Here he makes it a positive, rather than a negative, statement.



Understanding this, he continues with, “…what a great conflict I have for you and those in Laodicea.” The word he uses here is the noun agon. It is cognate to the verb “striving” of verse 1:29. It is as if he were in a battle or a wrestling match against the spiritual foes of the church, fighting for the precious saints that he was called to minister to. It is certainly a spiritual battle which he is speaking of, as the words of the next clause will show. In verse 4:12, he will again use the verb form of the word when speaking of the prayers of Epaphras. This further shows us that Paul’s conflict is tied into the striving of Epaphras, and which is spiritual in nature. His desire was that they could know and understand the level of trial and striving he had put forth on the behalf of the churches of Colossae and Laodicea.



But he next shows that this conflict was not limited to them alone. Rather, it extended to “as many as have not seen my face in the flesh.” He was, at this point, unknown personally to many, and yet he labored for them in the great conflict of spiritual matters. He wrote epistles, he studied the Scriptures in order to find answers to questions which had been sent to him, he steadfastly prayed for those who were being led astray, and so on. It was his calling to minister, and minister he did. He put forth great effort in order to bring soundness of doctrine and peace within the fellowship to those he ministered to.



Life application: Are you willing to minister to those you have never actually met? What will you do if someone emails you with questions concerning doctrine? And what if you hear of a church that is struggling and facing great trials? We have open to us a vast amount of resources for helping in doctrine, and we have the throne of heaven open to us for prayer when such needs are made known to us. Let us use these tools as weapons in the great spiritual battle we are engaged in.



Lord God, You word tells us that we are in a spiritual battle. The life we live certainly shows us that this is true. And so why would we think that we can make it safely through this conflict without possessing all the tools necessary to engage the enemy? And yet, we fashion our own weapons which have no ability to overcome the powers of wickedness instead of going to the arsenal you have already provided for us. Your word tells us who the enemy is, what weapons to use, and how to employ them. Help us to get it right, and to enter the battle properly fitted with the things we need to win. Give us wisdom to read Your word and apply it to our lives. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:2, 11 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, APRIL 11, 2017

Tuesday, 11 April 2017



…that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, Colossians 2:2



In saying “their hearts,” Paul is speaking of those who had not yet seen his face in the flesh from the previous verse. The conflict he had was for them in order that their hearts may be encouraged. As noted in the previous verse, Paul’s conflict was certainly a spiritual one, and in that conflict, he had striven to bring them to a point where they would be content while facing trials and troubles of their own. This was something that was (and still is to this day) expected. Being in Christ does not mean freedom from troubles. Rather, it often means facing even greater troubles. But Paul desired that they would be encouraged through them.



One way for this to happen would be for them to be “knit together in love.” A unified body is a body which can support one another through times of trial. Add in love, and it is a source of great comfort and even joy. Facing trials alone can be miserable, but when facing them with others, there is strength and resolve which is often otherwise lacking. Paul prayed for this to be the case among them.



However, he desired more. He also wished for them to attain “to all riches of the full assurance of understanding.” These words look forward to the coming words as the object for which they should be encouraged and knit together. The riches are what are contained in the object to be mentioned, the “full assurance” is the benefit of having those riches, and the “understanding” is what make the other two possible. In understanding what he will mention, there will be full assurance, and the riches will be fully obtained. And so, he next relays what he is referring to with the words, “…to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ.”



“The knowledge of the mystery of God” is that which has been revealed. A mystery is something once hidden, but now known. The “mystery of God” which Paul speaks of here is that “both of the Father and of Christ.” The word “Father” is not included in many manuscripts, and thus is lacking in most translations. Regardless of this, What Paul is speaking of is what will be explained in verses 2:8 and 2:9. The mystery is that Christ Jesus reveals the unseen God to us. He is a member of the Godhead, and in him the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily. This is the mystery which Paul is speaking of, and which he desires his readers to know and to understand. In so doing, They will possess the riches and have full assurance of their faith.



Life application: Paul’s words always lead the reader to Christ Jesus. He is the focal point of the Christian faith. Without Him, God is not fully knowable, but in understanding Christ, we can then understand God in a full and intimate way which brings us joy, and which also makes possible a personal relationship with our Creator. Let us follow the admonition of Scripture and fix our eyes and our thoughts on Jesus.



Heavenly Father, there are true riches in knowing Christ Jesus, and in our pursuing Him, there is full assurance that we know You and are intimately connected to You. There is no longer any separation between us, but rather there is confident hope, complete understanding, and blessed joy as we live in Your marvelous presence. Thank You for Jesus who makes all of this possible. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:3, 12 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12, 2017

Wednesday, 12 April 2017



…in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Colossians 2:3

The order of the Greek is, “…in whom are all the treasures the wisdom and knowledge hidden.” The “in whom” is speaking of Christ, not the mystery, of the preceding verse. Christ is the nearer antecedent, and therefore it is identifying Him as the repository. In him are “hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”



The reason for introducing the thought will be seen in the coming verse. Paul is now identifying the true Source of everything which deals with true wisdom and knowledge. “Wisdom” is referring to that which is general in nature, such as the need for salvation. It is from this general body that comes understanding. And so understanding is that which is specific and which deals with the intellect after it has applied wisdom. Hence it embodies doctrinal matters. As the need for salvation is general, the way to be saved is specific. In Christ are also found the specific answers to such general things. In Him are found all things necessary in order to be fully knowledgeable about that which we need in order to be complete in our walk with God.



If we think through what we are being told, then it becomes obvious that if there is a need to be saved, and that God wants us to be saved, then He would provide that knowledge to us through the repository of that knowledge. This is the purpose of the Bible, which is the word of God, coming from the Word (meaning Christ) of God. There is nothing lacking in what we need in order to be saved, and in order to continue our walk in that state of salvation, so that we can be pleasing to Him.



Life application: We do not need a secret wisdom which only a few enlightened people can impart to us. What we need is to get our noses into the Bible and to discover Christ Jesus. In Him we have all that is necessary to be reconciled to God, and to be pleasing to Him in that state of having been reconciled.



Heavenly Father, thank You that nothing has been left undone concerning our ability to know if we are fully pleasing to You or not. You have revealed in Your word everything we need in order to be saved, and also in order to walk in a right manner before You. And both are centered on the Person and work of Christ Jesus. Thank You that everything we need is found in Him! Praise You for our Lord Jesus. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:4, 13 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, APRIL 13, 2017

Thursday, 13 April 2017



Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words. Colossians 2:4



This verse explains the reason why Paul specifically stated these words concerning Christ Jesus in the previous verse – “…in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” In Christ, and thus in the word which He has given to us, we find the true and accurate revelation of wisdom and knowledge. Whatever we need to know about Christ, the Godhead, salvation, our relationship with God, and so forth, will logically be revealed to us by Christ Jesus and not by someone claiming they have a special, insightful knowledge that only he possesses. In saying that the Bible is revealed by Christ, the Bible is that necessary revelation, given to us by the Holy Spirit, also known as the “Spirit of Christ” (Romans 8:9).



Therefore, Paul says, “Now this I say.” As an Apostle of Jesus Christ, and as the Apostle to the Gentiles, his words are guided by the Spirit and are thus authoritative. In contrast to that certainty, he continues with, “lest anyone.” Anyone means anyone. There are the true apostles, and then there are those who will come contradicting them, or claiming extra revelation beyond them. And such has been the case for 2000 years. There has been a stream of false teachers and false prophets since the beginning. This is certain, because Paul’s words are given to refute such people. This means they were there even at the beginning. And they have been steadily making up crazy things ever since.



The words “should deceive” are from a Greek word used only here and in James 1:22. They give the sense of reasoning contrary to the truth in a misleading or erroneous way. These people use words which seem plausible, but will later disappoint. There is no true substance behind them. The “persuasive words” are from a Greek word found only here in the Bible. They indicate words which beguile. People have the ability to weave words together which sound reasonable and persuasive, but they actually only lead the hearers down paths which oppose a sound walk with Christ.



A perfect modern day example would be a heretic who teaches dual-covenantalism. One of the leading proponents of this false doctrine is an excellent orator, speaking words which are powerful and full of deep emotion over the subject he speaks. And yet, his words form arguments which are often not grounded in Scripture, and are even contrary to Scripture. However, because of the powerful presentation of his words; and because of them being mixed with occasional truth from Scripture which are combined with conservative emotions of national pride, as well as pride in the people of Israel, his sermons are accepted as wholly truthful. But when analyzed apart from the eloquent oration, what he states often forms unsound non-biblical messages.



The list of people like this, especially in more modern times where their writings are available, is long, and it grows longer by the day. We must be careful never to get caught up in being deceived by persuasive words, but all things must be compared to Scripture.

Life application: Do you truly measure the words of the teachers you listen to against Scripture, or do you just take their instruction at face value because their arguments sound correct? First, never take any commentary concerning God’s word at face value, but rather check it out against His word. And secondly, how can you check out an analysis of God’s word against what His word actually says unless you know enough of it to make the check? Know your Bible!



Heavenly Father, grant us sound teachers of Your word who are willing to do the hard work, carefully studying what You have presented to us, so that we are not led astray by persuasive, but deceitful words. And Lord, grant us the common sense to pick up Your word, study it daily, and know it well enough so that we won’t get misdirected by Heretic Harold or Apostate Andy. Keep pushing us along to crave after Your precious, superior word. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:5, 14 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, APRIL 14, 2017

Friday, 14 April 2017



For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ. Colossians 2:5

Paul had just said to the Colossians, “Now this I say lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words.” Building upon that, he says, “For.” He understands that they will have deceivers come in among them, and attempt to lure them away from the truth which is found in Christ alone. As a note of comfort to them, he next says, “though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in spirit.” The question is, “Is Paul referring to his own spirit, as if his heart is with them; or is he speaking of the Holy Spirit, meaning a spiritual bond exists between the two?” The question is hotly debated, but the wording he uses gives us a clue. In 1 Corinthians, he says something similar -



“For I indeed, as absent in body but present in spirit, have already judged (as though I were present) him who has so done this deed.” 1 Corinthians 5:3



In these words of 1 Corinthians 5, he uses the term “body.” There, he was making an assertion that he is physically absent, but if he was there in person, he would have made the same rendering as he had while absent. In this passage, he says “flesh.” The word is normally given as a contrast to that which is spiritual, not physical. To walk in the flesh is to walk in a carnal manner. To walk in the Spirit is to walk in step with the Lord. Therefore, Paul is making a spiritual connection to those at Colossae which goes beyond “as if I were there with you in the body.” Rather it is saying, “I am with you in the in the influence of the Spirit.” This then is revealed in the words, “…rejoicing to see.”



The spiritual connection is realized in that he is filled with joy in the Spirit which is then a result of “your good order and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.” The word “order” is an ancient military term which describes how a military troop is ordered, going in descending rank. It thus signifies a detailed ordering instead of a general accounting of military troops. The word “steadfastness” is found only here in the New Testament, and it continues the military metaphor. Thus, the “steadfastness of your faith in Christ” gives the sense of the faith being a military host which is closely drawn together. It is as if they form a stronghold against the deceivers who would attempt to come in among them and confuse them. It is reflective of the words of the 18th Psalm –



“The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer;

My God, my strength, in whom I will trust;

My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18:2



Those in Colossae were a source of joy to Paul, because he knew that they were standing on the truth of the Lord, and allowing Him to be their true leader. They had ordered their troops, and they had drawn together closely in Him. Thus, He was their stronghold.



Life application: No man is an island. There is strength in numbers, and from the words of Paul to the Colossians, we can see the importance of aligning ourselves with other believers so that we can unite in the Lord and stand against the false deceivers who come against us. This is a wise thing to do, and it is what the Bible would direct us to do.



Heavenly Father, thank you for the cross of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:6, 15 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, APRIL 15, 2017

Saturday, 15 April 2017



As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, Colossians 2:6



Paul now states for the consideration of those at Colossae (and thus us!), “As you there for have received Christ Jesus the Lord…” The Greek literally reads “the Christ Jesus the Lord.” This is stated based on everything he has said about Christ Jesus to this point. All of the marvelous detail concerning Him in Chapter 1, and then the note in verse 2:3 that “in Him are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge,” were intended to demonstrate what they had originally believed, that Jesus Christ is the Lord (meaning Yehovah of the Old Testament). As He is, then He is God.



This is the what they had received. He then reexplains this to them by saying “Christ Jesus the Lord.” Unfortunately, this article is missing in the translation of almost all versions in this verse. The ISV and the Weymouth correctly inserted it -



“So then, just as you have received the Messiah Jesus the Lord, continue to live dependent on him.” ISV



As you can see, “the article points out Christ Jesus in his full style and title as the Person whom the Colossians had received, and received as the Lord” (Pulpit Commentary). This then is highlighting the lordship of Christ Jesus, not his messiah-ship. The term “Christ” in Greek is the same in meaning as “Messiah” in Hebrew. The question of His messiah-ship is resolved by the use of the title, but what does that mean? It means that He is Yehovah; He is God.



Having said that, if the Christ Jesus is not the Lord, then He would be a false Messiah. There are many supposed Messiahs, but there is one who is the Lord. Therefore, though the stress is on Jesus being “the Lord” in this verse, being “the Messiah” necessarily means that it is speaking of “the Lord.” The true Messiah will be the Lord, and Jesus is that true Messiah. This is what Paul is so carefully and meticulously telling his audience. With that in mind, he then says, “…so walk in Him.”



This is a note of care, caution, and confidence. They had received Christ properly. They had been re-advised of who he is with Paul’s careful explanation of the Person, and thus he asks them to continue to live out their life with this knowledge, and not swaying from it. They were not to be seduced by either the Judaizers who wanted them back under the law which was fulfilled by the Christ, nor were to they to be duped into believing in a false Christ who is not the Lord by the gnostics or other Greek philosophers.



The term “walk” is used to indicate a manner of life. If one follows a false Christ, they will have an aberrant walk. But in knowing the true Christ, who is the Lord, one will be careful to walk in accord with His expectations.



Life application: The Christ Jesus is the Lord. Do you believe this? If so, you are in the sweet spot and on the heavenly highway. If not, you have believed in a false Christ, and you are on the road to the Lake of Fire. To walk in the Christ Jesus who is the Lord will keep you from an eternal swim with any false Christ who is not the Lord.



Lord God Almighty, You have set the path of salvation before mankind. You have offered Your Son in fulfillment of Scripture, and who fulfilled the law. We can walk in Him, or we can attempt to please You on our own merits… and fail. Why do we strive against You by setting aside the grace which You so lavishly desire to bestow upon us? Help us to be faithful to follow along the narrow path of life and to avoid that wide path to perdition. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:7, 18 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, APRIL 16, 2017

Sunday, 16 April 2017



…rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving. Colossians 2:7



In the previous verse, Paul said that we are to “walk” in Christ. Now, he changes the metaphor from walking to being rooted. The idea of being rooted is that of a tree’s roots which bury deep into the soil. They hold the tree firm, but even more, they draw up the nutrients and water with which the tree may live. This is comparable to our own position in Christ. It is through Him that we may draw up all the riches of what God offers to His redeemed. In this state, we can then be “built up in Him.”



There is a change in the tense of the verb here. The word “rooted” is a perfect participle. In other words, “be rooted.” It is a complete action he is directing for us. The word translated as “built up” is a present participle. In this, it means something more like, “being built up.” If we are rooted, we can then progress in the state of being built up “in Him.” The words, rather than saying “upon Him” which might be expected, show that Christ is the sphere in which we are being built up, not merely the grounding of something else.



After this, he next notes, “…and be established in the faith.” Again, it is a present participle which gives the sense of “being established.” If we are rooted in Christ, our faith will be established as we continue our walk in Him. In these words, it needs to be remembered why Paul is saying this. He is attacking gnostic heretics who believed that knowledge was the highest attainment of the elite, normally possessed by a few. The common and unenlightened merely possessed faith. However Paul shows that it is just the opposite. We are rooted in knowledge, and this leads to continued establishment of faith. It is faith which is pleasing to God.



Understanding this, he says, “as you have been taught.” In other words, “Hold fast to what you have received, and don’t be duped by charlatans or led astray by heretics.” In this state, he completes the thought with “abounding in it with thanksgiving.” The word “it” is referring to faith. It is in a sound and continuously established faith that we are to abound in thanksgiving. All the knowledge in the world can be heaped up, and it will not naturally lead to thanksgiving. However, when one is in Christ, and understands by faith that all goodness comes from Him, then thanksgiving will be the natural result.



Life application: Knowledge is a wonderful thing to possess, and the Bible would teach us to pursue knowledge, but it is only a beginning step to wisdom, or the right application of knowledge. When one is truly wise, they will apply their knowledge to the fear and pursuit of the Lord.



Heavenly Father, I believe that Christ Jesus rose from the dead. My sin is buried, and I am alive with Him. May all the redeemed of the Lord praise Your name forever and ever! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:8, 17 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, APRIL 17, 2017

Monday, 17 April 2017



Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. Colossians 2:8



In verse 3, Paul noted that it is Christ in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. After that, he gave general urgings which were based on that. Now he gives a specific exhortation intended to keep them on the right track by explaining what is to be avoided. This will be followed up with a positive statement concerning Christ in order to contrast what he now says.



He begins with “Beware.” The Greek word gives the idea of being observant, and so it would appropriately read “Watch out!” He is giving them a strong admonition that dangers are out there, and the enemy has them ready to ensnare any who are not attentive. His next words show that there will be loss if one is not carefully attentive, by saying, “…lest anyone cheat you.” He uses a word sulagógeó, which is only found here in Scripture. It gives the idea of being taken captive, as if plunder in war, or to be made a victim through fraud. If one isn’t watching, the result will come surprisingly, and there will be great loss.



From there, what is to be watched for is stated, and also what its characteristics are like. One must watch for possibly being ensnared “through philosophy and empty deceit.” In the Greek, there is an article before “philosophy,” and thus it says, “the philosophy.” Not all philosophy is bad; Paul cites some reasonable philosophy in Acts 17. However, there is specific philosophy which is then described by Paul as “empty deceit.” These words explain “the philosophy.” Therefore, it should read, “the philosophy which is empty deceit.” With this, Paul will next go on to describe the characteristics of such philosophy so it can, in fact, be watched out for.



First, such philosophy is “according to the tradition of men.” Jesus continually warned Israel of the traditions of men, such as in Matthew 15:2-6 and Mark 7:3-9. Such traditions derived their authority, not from Scripture or the inspiration of the Holy Spirit as passed on through the Apostles, but rather it came from the authority of men. And these traditions were two-fold. The first consisted of those which were derived from the Jewish traditions, such as referred to by Jesus, and then there were those of the Greek philosophers. They often sought after wisdom, but not the wisdom of God. Instead, it was of superstition.



Secondly, he notes philosophy which is “according to the basic principles of the world.” The word translated as “principles” is stoicheion. It means “properly, fundamentals, like with the basic components of a philosophy, structure, etc.; (figuratively) ‘first principles,’ like the basic fundamentals of Christianity” (HELPS Word Studies).



It further refers to “the rudiments with which mankind . . . were indoctrinated (before the time of Christ), i.e. the elements of religious training or the ceremonial precepts common alike to the worship of Jews and of Gentiles” (J. Thayer).



Both Jew and Gentile had worldly systems in that they did not transcend this world. Each participated in ritual sacrifices. Each had certain feast days. Each had systems which only pointed to spiritual and heavenly things.



Paul uses the term stoicheion to speak of these systems in a negative light. They refer to any such worldly system – whether law or Gentile religion. The only difference is that the law actually pointed to Christ. Other than that, it was still only a type and a shadow.



He finishes up with the thought that these things are “not according to Christ.” Christ is the fulfillment of the law. Therefore, to mandate observing anything from the law which is fulfilled, instead of honoring Christ who did the fulfilling, is empty deceit. Further, there are other Jewish philosophies, such a Kabbalism, which are mere traditions, and which are not even in accord with the law. And beyond that are countless other worldly philosophical systems which are merely idle ramblings of man, and which are intended to draw the believer in Christ away from what is sound. Only when a philosophy is according to Christ, can it be reasonable and worthwhile.



Life application: As noted above, not all philosophy is bad, but one must be extremely careful to pay heed to what is being taught. If any doctrine, philosophy, or teaching draws one’s attention away from Christ, it is empty deceit, and it is to be rejected. Always be sure to prepare yourself mentally for such things by being grounded in Scripture.



Most gracious heavenly Father, as servants of the Lord Jesus, look after us and keep us from the cunning wiles of those who would have us follow after false philosophies, false doctrines, and heretical teachings. Give us the wisdom to be attentive to reading Your word, and then please open that word up to our minds. With this, we will be prepared when that which is false comes along and attempts to drag our minds away from You. Be with us in this battle, and surely we will prevail. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:9, 18 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2017

Tuesday, 18 April 2017



For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; Colossians 2:9



There is an intentional emphasis of the words in Greek which are intended to destroy the claims of heretics concerning who Jesus Christ is, in both role and nature. These emphatic words include, “all the fullness of the Godhead,” then the word “dwells,” and also the word “bodily.” All are emphatic. Each is targeted against some heretical idea concerning Christ.



The words, “For in Him” are speaking of Christ who was noted in the preceding verse. Paul then uses the word, “dwells.” It is a word which indicates to “reside,” or “to settle down as a permanent resident.” In Christ is this type of permanent dwelling where there is “all the fullness.” This term recalls his earlier words in verse 1:19. There can be only one sound and reasonable explanation for the statement. He is the dwelling place of what will next be named, which is “the Godhead.” The word for “Godhead,” theotés, is found nowhere else in Scripture, but it signifies “God’s essential (personal) deity, as belonging to Christ” (HELPS Word Studies).



From this, Paul adds on his final emphatic word, “bodily.” The word is sómatikós, and it is also found nowhere else in Scripture. It is an adverb referring to the complete embodiment of the fullness of God. This then is contrasted to any supposed distribution of the Godhead through any other intermediaries. In other words, it is an argument against any heresy that Jesus Christ is anything other than fully God, and the dwelling place of the Godhead.



The word for “dwells” is in the present tense, and therefore, it is denoting “an eternal and essential characteristic of Christ’s being” (Vincent’s Word Studies). From all ages, and unto all ages, Christ is the place where God dwells. As Christ took on human form, this means that the fullness of God chose to take up residence in this human form from that time on. The Person of Christ is the place from which all the fullness of the Godhead issues forth from. This is now eternally so.



What Paul is doing is refuting heretics on the left and on the right. Those who deny His deity are proven false. Those who deny His humanity are also proven false. He is the God/Man; He is the place where all the fullness of the Godhead dwells; and His body is a real, material body. To believe anything else is to believe the lies of the devil. It is something warned against by John with the words –



“Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son. 23 Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father either; he who acknowledges the Son has the Father also.” 1 John 2:22, 23



Life application: To err in believing the truth of what the Bible teaches about Jesus is an error which has eternal consequences. The words of Scripture concerning both the deity and the humanity of Jesus Christ are clear and precise. To twist them away from either precept is to mock God who has given us this word for us to accept. Don’t be a denier, put away your biases and presuppositions, and bow your knee to Jesus Christ now, while you have the chance.



Heavenly Father, Your word says that in Jesus Christ all the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily. It also says that whoever denies the Son does not have the Father. You have chosen to reveal Yourself through our Lord Jesus. Give us wisdom to look to the words of Scripture, and to understand that what You have done through Jesus is for the sake of all people, if we will but believe. Thank You for what You have revealed of Yourself in this most magnificent of ways. Thank You for Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:10, 19 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19, 2017

Wednesday, 19 April 2017



…and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:10



The word “complete” in Greek signifies being made full, and the word “you” is plural. It is speaking to all who are in Christ. The order of the wording in Greek gives us the idea of what is being relayed – “And you are in Him, made full.” Thus it is a combination of two statements. “You are in Him,” and “You are filled full in Him.” It is a sentence which takes us back to the previous verse which said, “For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.”



Therefore the thought for us to see is that “In Him dwells all the fullness, and as you are in Him, you are filled. Paul is showing them that our sufficiency is of Christ alone. There is no need for the things that he referred to in verse 8 concerning the philosophy which the Greeks taught and the traditions of man which the Jews taught. Rather, everything necessary for salvation, and continued spiritual growth, is found in Christ alone, “who is the head of all principality and power.”



This is a term that he uses also in Ephesians 1:21. The words which are translated as “principality and power” give the idea of government and the authority committed to that government. Christ’s position is above all such things. As there are both earthly and heavenly hierarchies, it signifies that He is the ultimate authority on earth and in heaven; He is God. Because of this, it is contrary to what is proper to petition lesser beings, such as angels or popes, in order to seek God’s grace and blessings. To do so would deprive Christ of His position within the Godhead, and it would thus diminish what it means for us to be in Him.



Albert Barnes notes four areas in particular in which this thought especially applies. 1) In wisdom needed to guide us; 2) in atonement needed for sin; 3) in merit by which a sinner is justified; and, 4) in grace needed to sustain us. We derive these things from Christ Jesus, not from lesser sources.



Life application: There is no praying to angels, to Mary, to a pope, or to a saint authorized in Scripture. There is no class of person who is initiated in spiritual matters that we need to seek in order to be saved, or to continue to be saved. There is no tradition of man that can help us in our walk with or to God. In Christ, we have the fullness of what we need in order meet these and all other spiritual challenges and needs. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus.



Lord God, how is it that we get so misdirected concerning Your word? We are told in Scripture that in Christ we have everything necessary to fill us completely in our spiritual walk with You. And yet, instead of living in Christ, we devolve to praying to or through angels, saints, Mary, or popes. Where does that type of thinking come from? In Christ, we have the highest authority in heaven and on earth. Why would we presume to step down from that high, exalted, and lofty throne? Help us to think clearly, and to trust the mediation of Christ completely. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:11, 20 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, APRIL 20, 2017

Thursday, 20 April 2017



In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, Colossians 2:11



Paul seems to suddenly, even abruptly, introduce circumcision. However, one need only go back to verse 8 to see what he is referring to. There he says, “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.” Circumcision of the Gentiles, which the church at Colossae was comprised of, would be a tradition of man. It was intended not for Gentiles, but for the people of Israel as a sign to them of their inclusion in that body. As circumcision was a picture which pointed to Christ, then it is fulfilled in Christ. To expect someone to fall back on a picture, rather than the substance, would make no sense. As Paul continues in verse 10, “and you are complete in Him.” There is nothing lacking which needs to be filled up in the physical body.



Rather, “In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands.” This is referring to Christ. Those who have called on Him receive the true circumcision; the sign which shows that we are included in the body which is His church. The words “made without hands” speaks of a spiritual, rather than a physical, circumcision. It is a term used several times in the New Testament to indicate something which is not of the material world (see Mark 14:58, 2 Corinthians 5:1, and Hebrews 9:11 & 24). The believer in Christ is so circumcised. As Paul says in Romans 2:29, “…circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter.” In that verse, “not in the letter” is speaking of the Law of Moses; a law which is now obsolete in Christ.



This circumcision made without hands points to our “putting off the body of the sins of the flesh.” The word translated as “putting off” is found only here in the New Testament. It gives the sense of casting off a garment. It contains two prefixes, making it a strong expression for completely casting something away from oneself. It would be comparable to saying, “I took it off and I cast it away.” The words “of the sins” are not found in some manuscripts. They may belong there, or they may have been added by some scribe to explain what “the body of the flesh” is speaking of. Either way, it is evident from the rest of Scripture that “the flesh” speaks of that which is morally carnal and earthly, not that which is spiritual. It is the passions and lusts of the earthly person which stand opposed to that which is spiritual and holy.



Paul finishes the thought with, “…by the circumcision of Christ.” The Greek reads “in the circumcision of Christ.” It is a circumcision of the whole corrupt spiritual nature of man. It is cut away because of the work of Christ. This stands in contrast to the mere cutting of a portion of the physical body in the Jewish rite of circumcision. In our union with Christ, this circumcision occurs. He kept the whole law without erring under it. This work of His is imputed to us, and in that imputation we are granted His righteousness. Therefore, our circumcision cuts away the law which stood opposed to us, and which could only highlight our sin-nature, not remove it. In Christ, however, it is removed. In verse 14, Paul will say that the law is “nailed to the cross,” indicating that it died with Him on the cross.



Life application: Physical circumcision is not required for believers in Christ. As that was the preeminent sign of inclusion into the corporate body of the people of Israel, then any lesser sign or mandate must necessarily be done away with it as well. Don’t let the Judaizers of the world fool you into believing that you must meet this demand of the law or that demand of the law. The Law of Moses is finished and annulled. Why is this so hard to get through the minds of God’s people?



Heavenly Father, the word “annulled” means nullified. Your word says the law is annulled in Christ. So why do so many of us keep going back to a law which is done away with? Help us to understand that in Christ, we are not bound to the law, but are freed from its constraints, without exception. Let us live for You faithfully acknowledging that He has accomplished everything necessary for us to live in Your marvelous presence forever, free from condemnation. Help us to trust in the finished work of Christ. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:12, 21 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, APRIL 21, 2017

Friday, 21 April 2017



…buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. Colossians 2:12



This verse partly resembles Romans 6:4 -



“Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”



Paul, ensuring that those in Colossae understand this crucial point of doctrine, states it again while giving it more force than that which he wrote in the epistle to Rome. He says, “…buried with Him in baptism.” There is an article in front of “baptism.” Therefore, it reads either “the baptism,” or “your baptism.” Further, this is in the aorist tense, and so it makes this act of burial contemporary with the circumcision noted in the previous verse. In essence, when you were circumcised with the circumcision of Christ, you were also buried with Him in baptism.



This then is a spiritual, not a physical, baptism which is being spoken of. It is the baptism of the Holy Spirit – the total immersion of the old man into Christ’s death, being completely covered by His righteousness and thus resulting in us being “in” Christ. The sealing of the Spirit is the baptism of the Spirit; it is a one-time act which moves us from Adam to Christ. Water baptism then is only an outward sign of the inward change which takes place in us. This is another reason why sprinkling of infants is of no value. It is show without substance.



Paul continues with, “…in which you were also raised with Him.” Again, this is a spiritual raising, not our final conversion when we shall be made like Him at the resurrection. This raising is a moral conversion. When we were circumcised (made right in our heart, and acceptable to God), we were buried (where out sin and the old man was covered over), and we were also raised (putting on the new man who is morally covered in Christ’s righteousness, and deemed acceptable to God). The entire process occurs when one receives Jesus Christ through faith. As Paul says, “…through faith in the working of God.”



This faith is speaking of God’s working in Christ on our behalf. Christ died for our sins, and God raised Him to life. It is the constant theme of Paul where the focus is on the resurrection. Faith in this is the heart of the gospel. If the wages of sin is death, and if death could not hold Christ Jesus, then Christ obviously had no sin of His own. If this is so, then those who die in Him have had their sins removed in His death, and are thus deemed as sinless before God. Therefore, they too will be raised. Nothing can thwart this from taking place. All of this happens to us spiritually the moment we trust in the gospel message, and therefore the physical aspect of what occurs must logically follow. It is also another, of countless verses, which clearly show us the truth of eternal salvation. If we are deemed as sinless, then we are saved – once and forever.



It is God “who raised Him from the dead.” God looked upon the work of Christ, declared it acceptable, and therefore Christ was raised. When we trust in Christ, God looks upon our faith, and declares it acceptable. His merits are imputed to us, and we are granted the circumcision, the removing of the old man, and the moral conversion to a new and acceptable being.



It must be remembered why Paul is saying these things. There were those who claimed that something more was necessary to be perfected, even as a follower of Christ. Here is how Paul stated it in verse 8 –



“Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.”



Paul is showing that the gospel transcends the traditions of men, and is not according to the basic principles of this world. What He offers is so far above those things that they are utterly useless. It would make no sense at all to fall back on Greek or Jewish practices which could not possibly have any bearing at all on what has occurred in the believer in Christ. Paul will perfectly and clearly explain this in the verses ahead.



Life application: If you have received Jesus Christ, the law is dead to you. Why on earth would you go back and adhere to principles of a law which is obsolete and nullified through the work of Christ? You have died with Him, you have been buried with Him, and you have been raised to newness of life because of Him. Now live for God in the New Covenant; put away the old!



Thank You, Lord God, for the New Covenant which comes through Christ’s work, and which fulfilled the Old Covenant in His death. Now, that is obsolete. It has been nailed to the cross, and that which stood opposed to us can have no power over us. Sin is defeated in Christ! So why would we willingly choose to return to a covenant which is nullified in Him? Let us put our trust and faith in what He alone has done. All praises to the name of Jesus! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:13, 22 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, APRIL 22, 2017

Saturday, 22 April 2017



And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, Colossians 2:13



Paul now expands upon what he said in the previous two verses. “And you” is speaking of those Gentiles at Colossae, and thus to any who receive and read his letter afterwards. Speaking to the Gentiles, he says that you “being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh.” This deadness is a spiritual state. Of course those who read his words are physically alive, but he is referring to a spiritual matter. This dead state comes from the power of sin (trespasses) as well as from their state of alienation from God because of their uncircumcised state.



The uncircumcision looks to the carnal state of the flesh, and of the deadness which resulted from original sin. That original sin then is only magnified through continued trespasses which visibly demonstrate the “uncircumcision of the flesh” in the person. But through Christ, God has done something marvelous. Paul continues with, “He has made alive together with Him.” This is speaking of God the Father who raised Christ Jesus from the dead. The resurrection proved that Jesus was sinless, and it also proved that the sin-debt which was laid upon Him had been removed; He was delivered from it.



In that act, we were “made alive together with Him.” Our sin debt, having been laid upon the Lord Jesus, and now having been removed, thus removed the death which resulted from our sin. In this act, we have been spiritually quickened to life. As Christ fulfilled the law, then there is no law by which sin can again be imputed to us. Our quickening is thus an eternal one. Spiritual life is restored, once and for all time. This is realized in the words “having forgiven you all trespasses.” The stain of original sin is removed, and the stain of all sins committed in life are likewise removed. Through Christ’s death, we have died to sin; through Christ’s resurrection, we live to God in Christ.



As a point of theology, Calvinists will use this verse to deny free will in man. They say that if we are dead, then it is impossible for us to raise ourselves to life. Therefore, we must first be “regenerated in order to believe.” When that happens, we are then brought to life. That is both a category mistake, and it is nonsense.

First, we are spiritually dead, not physically dead. Just because we are not morally good beings, it does not mean that we cannot see the good in God and desire it. We see the good in many things before coming to Christ, and we act upon that knowledge, moving toward the good. How much more, when we realize the surpassing goodness of God, will we then want to receive Him?



Secondly, if we were “regenerated in order to believe,” but it is belief that makes us alive, then we would still be dead until we believed. As we would still be dead until we believed, the regeneration would not mean anything. It is a convoluted and unnecessary stretch of what God has done for us in Christ. Please, don’t listen to convoluted theology. The bible teaches free-will in man; you are encouraged to freely believe that what the Bible teaches is correct.



Life application: Take time today to thank God for what He has done in Jesus Christ our Lord. When we were dead in trespasses, He made us alive together with Him. All credit, honor, and glory belongs to God! Be sure to let Him know how you feel.



Heavenly Father, it’s hard to imagine that the penalty that we deserve for our sins was transferred to the Lord Jesus. An Innocent stood in our place and died so that we may live. In a simple acknowledgment that we have offended you and wish to have our debt removed through His death, restoration is granted. In believing that He was resurrected, we too shall receive the resurrection of eternal life! How can such love exist that You would do this for us? Help us to never treat this marvelous act with anything but the greatest of thanks. May You forever be praised for the salvation which came at such a high cost. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:14, 23 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, APRIL 23, 2017

Sunday, 23 April 2017



…having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. Colossians 2:14



Where people go to get their theology explains where their theology stands. In the case of the Judaizers of the world, they would rather go anywhere than to Paul to get their theology. God gave the people of Israel a body of law which is termed “The Law of Moses.” It was written down for the people, and maintained for their instruction and life-practice. It is what is known to us now as the Old Covenant. In the coming of the Messiah, a new covenant was promised. That is found in Jeremiah 31:31. With the introduction of the New, the Old was annulled (Hebrews 7:18), it was made obsolete (Hebrews 8:14), and it was taken away (Hebrews 10:10).



That is what Paul is referring to here. The Law of Moses was, as he says, “wiped out.” The word in Greek is exaleiphó. It means to completely remove, obliterate, blot out, erase, wipe away, to cancel (such as when rubbing out a writing or seal impression left on a tablet). It was used to cancel obligations and/or entitlements to which extended benefits and entitlements. The explanation of the word is sufficient, but its use elsewhere testifies to the meaning. It is seen five times in the New Testament. Three are found in Revelation 3:5, 7:17, and 21:4. Each has the sense of either blotting out or wiping away.



In Christ, God has “wiped out the handwriting of the requirements that was against us.” The law stood against us by bringing death. Paul explains this in Romans 7, summing up this principle in verses 10 and 11 -



“And the commandment, which was to bring life, I found to bring death. 11 For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it killed me.” Romans 7:10, 11



The law is a body of commandments, both moral and civil, which brings death, not life. It stands opposed to us because we are incapable of meeting its demands. And so God wiped out this handwriting – both moral and civil – that was against us, and “which was contrary to us.” The word translated as “contrary” means to set over against, or opposite. It is used one other time in the New Testament. In Hebrews 10:27 it is translated as “adversaries.” Because of our fallen human nature, the law stood against us. It was hostile to us as is an adversary.



But it is God’s law, God’s standard. And so in order to rescue us from it, He did something marvelous by sending Jesus. Jesus lived the life we could not live, and then He gave that life up in fulfillment of the law which stood opposed to us. In that act, it says that “He has taken it out of the way.” There is a change in tenses here. The “having wiped out” was in the aorist tense. At a specific moment, the handwriting of the law was wiped out. In having “taken it out” the tense changes to the perfect tense. It is taken out completely and forever. As Christ said on the cross, “It is finished.” The debt is paid, it is paid perfectly, and it is paid forever.



And this was accomplished through the death of Christ, God “having nailed it to the cross.” The verb is found nowhere else in Scripture. It is an explanation of how Christ was affixed to the cross, and it is a metaphor for what also happened to the law. What Paul is saying is that Jesus’ body is metaphorically used as the law itself. As He fulfilled the law, He thus represents the law, embodying it. In His being nailed to the cross, the law was thus nailed to the cross. In His death, the law died. The law which stood opposed to us is done. The verb is again in the aorist tense. At that defining moment when Christ was nailed to the cross, the law was nailed to the cross.



Question: How can it be that you would desire to go back to the law which died with Christ’s death? What type of perverse, unholy attitude would you display towards the work of the Lord? Was what He did for you of so little value that you would tread upon His shed blood by reinserting a law which was annulled through His death? May it never be so!



As a point of doctrine: The law remains in effect for those who have not come to Christ. In Christ, we are judged by Christ’s perfect fulfillment of the law. For those not in Christ, they will be judged by the revelation God has given them. For Gentiles without the law, they will be judged by God’s general revelation. For those with the law, they will be judged by that specific revelation. In both such instances, only death can be the verdict. In Christ, only life can be the outcome.



Life application: The law is fulfilled and anulled. Get over it.



Lord God, if I have but one boast in this life, it is in the cross of Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:15, 24 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, APRIL 24, 2017

Monday, 24 April 2017



Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it. Colossians 2:15



This commentary will be a bit long, but it it is hoped that you will receive it gladly, despite the length.



The first word of this verse in the Greek has brought about innumerable commentaries of great length and of endless speculation as to its true meaning. It is apekduomai. It comes from two separate words, joined together by Paul, to make a new word. Apo means “away from,” and ekdyo means “go down and completely away from.” Thus it means “to strip oneself.” HELPS Word Studies notes that, “The double prefixes (apo, ek) strongly emphasize the depth of the renouncing. This ‘renunciation (stripping right off) is very emphatic.’” Paul uses this word which he coined one more time in the New Testament, in Colossians 3:9. In that verse, there is little disagreement as to its intended translation –



“Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man with his deeds,”



Because of the context of the words of this verse, scholars and translators alike have tried to come up with words which agree with their presuppositions about what Paul must be saying. As it is in the middle voice, it is to be taken as meaning “from,” not “for.” In other words, it would not mean, “He stripped for Himself something,” but rather “He stripped from Himself something.” The Pulpit Commentary notes that Paul employs compounds of dyo in the middle voice seventeen times elsewhere, and they are always in the sense of “putting off [or ‘on’] from one’s self.”



As noted, there are a long list of ideas as to the meaning of the first clause because of this unusual word. Some see this as having “put off the body of His flesh.” This would mean that He put off His physical body, and in the process He disarmed the principalities and powers which held sway over the physical body. This then would closely align with the thought of Colossians 3:9 above where the old man is stripped away. However, Christ did not possess “the old man” in His flesh. He is the new Man. The context cannot be speaking of this.



Others see this as having stripped away the angelic hosts through which the law was given. This would stand against the false teaching of the Judaizers. Others see this as Christ having divested the armor of the “infernal powers of darkness” (Gill). But this would not suit with the middle voice of the verb. On and on commentators have gone, attempting to translate this verb in order for it to make sense. Charles Ellicott gives one possible translation as, “…having unclothed Himself, He made a show of principalities and powers.” After saying this, he goes on to say that there is want of a connection to the phrase except to define it as “putting off the flesh” as was noted above. But, as we have shown, this makes no sense. Christ was sinless.



What needs to be done is to take the verb in its obvious, simple form. This is what Ellicott has done, except he then made an incorrect supposition as to what is “stripped.” It should thus be translated as, “Having stripped Himself, He made a show of principalities and powers.” With this translation, there is no need to then allegorize the action by saying it must be referring to the flesh of His body. Instead, it should be taken exactly as one would expect – He stripped Himself, and was thus naked. Instead of there being a want of a connection, the connection is perfectly obvious if aligned with the fall of man in the first place –



“And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.” Genesis 2:25



This lack of shame was because of their state of innocence in regard to sin. But after the fall, this was no longer the case –



So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves coverings. 8 And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. 9 Then the Lord God called to Adam and said to him, “Where are you?” 10 So he said, “I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself.” 11 And He said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you that you should not eat?” Genesis 3:6-11



Immediately after the giving of the law, these words were spoken by the Lord to Moses –



“Nor shall you go up by steps to My altar, that your nakedness may not be exposed on it.” Exodus 20:26



In this verse of Exodus 20, it is not speaking of mere physical nakedness, but of what that nakedness implies, based on what occurred in Genesis 3. Shame of nakedness is how sin first manifested itself. And it was the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life by which that sin came about. Man wanted to be like God, rising to His level. The earthen altar of Exodus 20 was to be without steps because man cannot rise to the level of God.



The higher the altar, the greater the sin is revealed, and thus the more nakedness is exposed. God instead made it known that He would condescend to become a Man and meet us on our own level. In Revelation 3, as Jesus speaks to the churches, He says this -



“I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed.” Revelation 3:18



The nakedness of the body only pictures our revealed sin. Christ came to take that away and to cover us with His righteousness. It was He who hung naked on Calvary’s cross so that we could be covered by Him. This is what Paul is referring to here. It is a literal stripping of Himself, exposing the innocence of the Lamb of God who bore no sin. In this He did make a show of “principalities and powers.”



Christ’s sinless nature, seen in His exposed flesh, thus exposed the darkness of these forces for what they truly are. In so doing, “He made a public spectacle of them.” What Adam and Eve had attempted to hide, and what the priests of Israel were commanded to keep hidden from the presence of an infinitely holy God, is the sin-nature of man. What Christ demonstrated was a sinless nature, proving He is God. His naked, body, there on the cross, demonstrated this to them. He publically shamed those powers and thus in stripping Himself, He stripped them, “triumphing over them in it.”



The final words of this verse in Greek are en auto. They are translated one of two ways, “in it,” or “in Him.” “It” would refer to the cross itself; “Him” would refer to Christ. As God is the subject throughout the passage, it is certainly referring to Christ, and it should be translated as “in Him.” God made a public spectacle of the principalities and powers, triumphing over them in Christ. The Seed of the woman, promised just a few verses after the account of the hiding of the nakedness of Adam and Eve, had done exactly what the Lord had promised. The head of the serpent was crushed, sin was defeated, Christ had prevailed. This then is the correct translation and interpretation of what is otherwise a wholly misunderstood verse –



“Having stripped Himself, He made a show of principalities and powers; He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in Him.”



Life application: Isn’t the word great! It tells us of the marvelous work of Jesus, promised since the beginning of time. And He came right on time to do what was promised. Take time today to thank the Lord for this marvelous gift we call the Bible which in turn tells us of the most marvelous gift of all – our Lord Jesus Christ.



Lord God, at the very fall of man, You promised that You would send the Messiah to come and restore all that we had so terribly fouled up. It was our disobedience which brought about all of the pain and suffering since then. But in Christ, that is now over. We have an eternal hope of dwelling with You in a paradise once again. Hallelujah for what You have done. Great things lie ahead for Your redeemed. Thank You, O God, for our Lord Jesus Christ who makes all things new! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:16, 25 April 2017


WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2017

Tuesday, 25 April 2017



So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, Colossians 2:16



Colossians 2:16-19 are instructional, and they are so plain and simple to understand that it is almost impossible to believe people that some people can’t get them right. This is especially so with verses 16 & 17. But the modern Hebrew Roots movement, along with countless theologians, and even whole denominations from the past and present, simply ignore what Paul says, and they go about mandating things which are as clearly set aside in Christ as anything else He came to accomplish.

Having just shown in the preceding verses that the Law of Moses is annulled, completely and entirely, he now explains what that means in regards to observances mandated under that same law. This list is not speaking of Gentile observance, but of those things found in the Law of Moses itself. They are complete, they are fulfilled, and they are no longer required. To say otherwise is a heresy because it is then saying that Christ did not fulfill the law, which He did – in fact – fulfill. Don’t be a heretic; instead pay attention to Paul’s words.



“So let no one…” This is referring to each individual’s personal standard of life and practice in Christ. What Paul is warning against is that each person is to not be swayed by the false judgments of anyone else in relation to himself. He wants no one to “judge you.” One stands or falls based on where they put their hopes. If one places their hope in the work of Christ Jesus alone, then that person is to not let another person judge them based on anything else but that finished work of Christ.



The words, “in food or drink” refer solely to the dietary restrictions of the Jews as mandated under the Law of Moses. There is now no such dietary restriction in relation to this law because the law is annulled in Christ. Because it is annulled, the command to not eat pork died with the annulling of the law. The command to not eat shellfish died with that same annulment. This is true for every single dietary restriction found in the Law of Moses. They no longer exist because the Law of Moses is superseded by the New Covenant. A Christian is to not let anyone judge them for eating whatever they wish. This is plain, clear, and not difficult to understand.



He next says, “or regarding a festival.” The Greek word is heorté, and it refers to a feast day, such as the feasts of the Lord found in Leviticus 23. Any mandated feast day of the Law of Moses is done; it is completed in Christ; and it is obsolete. A Christian is to not let anyone judge them for not observing such a feast day. This is plain, clear, and not difficult to understand.



Paul next says, “or a new moon.” The New Moon is the first day of each month of the Hebrew calendar. This note from Paul is referring to observing this day as a type of celebratory feast under the Law of Moses. It is referred to over 20 times in the Old Testament, and it is an observance which the Jewish people faithfully adhered to. A Christian is to not let anyone judge them for not observing a New Moon. This is plain, clear, and not difficult to understand.



Finally for verse 16, Paul mentions “sabbaths.” The word in Greek is plural, and it is referring specifically to the weekly Sabbath Day requirement of the Old Testament. The plural is noted because it was a weekly feast day, and thus there were many sabbaths each year. It is also inclusive of any special Sabbaths which were mandated under the law. The same plural terminology is found in the Old Testament concerning the weekly Sabbath over 100 times. Exodus 31:31 for example, while speaking of the weekly Sabbaths, refers to them in the plural. The Sabbath is fulfilled in Christ. Hebrews 4:3 says that we rest in Him now. Therefore, a Christian is to not let anyone judge them for not observing a Sabbath Day. This is plain, clear, and not difficult to understand.



As a point of doctrine: There is no such thing as a Sunday Sabbath. The Sabbath is a Saturday, and only a Saturday. Christian tradition eventually started to claim that worshiping on the Lord’s Day (Sunday) had replaced the Saturday Sabbath. The claim is that this day of worship was now the “Sunday Sabbath.” This is incorrect. There is one Sabbath, and it is a Saturday. It is fulfilled in Christ. He is our Sabbath rest (Hebrews 4:3).



In support of what is stated here, the following verses are given -



“But now after you have known God, or rather are known by God, how is it that you turn again to the weak and beggarly elements, to which you desire again to be in bondage? 10 You observe days and months and seasons and years. 11 I am afraid for you, lest I have labored for you in vain.” Galatians 4:9-11



Paul calls such observances, “weak and beggarly elements,” and he calls them “bondage.” Don’t pursue that which is weak and beggarly, and do not be brought into another’s bondage.



“One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. 6 He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord; and he who does not observe the day, to the Lord he does not observe it. He who eats, eats to the Lord, for he gives God thanks; and he who does not eat, to the Lord he does not eat, and gives God thanks.” Romans 14:5-6



Paul is clear that whatever day a person observes or does not observe is totally up to the individual. Whatever a person eats or does not eat is also completely up to that individual. There are no such requirements levied on the follower of Christ.



“I will also cause all her mirth to cease,

Her feast days,

Her New Moons,

Her Sabbaths—

All her appointed feasts.” Hosea 2:11



Here in Colossians, Paul uses the same form as that of Hosea 2:11. It shows us that the things he is talking about in this verse – “feast days, New Moons, and Sabbaths” – are the same as which were required under the Law of Moses. They are now fulfilled in Christ; their being mandated for God’s people is annulled, and a new dispensation has been introduced which has set aside the previous one. To reintroduce these as requirements is to say that what Christ did was insufficient to save. It is to set aside His grace and attempt to merit God’s favor on one’s own merits. It is a self-condemning act. It is heresy. Do not be a heretic.



Life application: Either Paul’s words (which are plain and clear) are our doctrine for the Gentile-led church age, or they are not. If they are not, then Christ’s fulfillment of the law is useless to you. Go back and observe those rites which you feel will make God happy with you. But be advised that all you are actually doing is building a diving board for an eternal swim in the Lake of Fire.



Lord God, thank you ever so much for those faithful believers in Christ who we can stand with. Together we can ward off the forces of deceit and wickedness which come against us. And thank You for Your word which allows us to unite in this way. We have sure directions concerning what You would desire of us. In using them, and in doing so together as a unified body, we are ready to face those who would challenge us to depart from what is right, holy, and decent. Thank You for this source of encouragement and strength which is there for us. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:17, 26 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26, 2017

Wednesday, 26 April 2017



…which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ. Colossians 2:17



This verse clearly explains what the items mentioned in verse 16 were… mere shadows. Each looked forward to Christ in a unique way, and each found its fulfillment in Christ. The word skia, or shadow, means “the shadow of a looming presence.” Figuratively, it looks to a spiritual reality relating to God’s light or spiritual darkness. The foods prescribed or forbidden under the law, the feast days of the Lord, the New Moon celebrations, and the Sabbath days all only looked forward as shadows, “but the substance is of Christ.” The word substance, or soma, means a physical body. Christ embodies what these things only looked forward to.



Paul is saying that if we have the reality of what these things only pictured, then why would we fall back on the pictures? Why would anyone mandate Sabbath observance, when Christ is our Sabbath rest (Hebrews 4:3)? The author of Hebrews repeats this idea of shadow verses substance as well –



For every high priest is appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices. Therefore it is necessary that this One also have something to offer. 4 For if He were on earth, He would not be a priest, since there are priests who offer the gifts according to the law; 5 who serve the copy and shadow of the heavenly things, as Moses was divinely instructed when he was about to make the tabernacle. For He said, “See that you make all things according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.” 6 But now He has obtained a more excellent ministry, inasmuch as He is also Mediator of a better covenant, which was established on better promises. Hebrews 8:3-6



&



For the law, having a shadow of the good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with these same sacrifices, which they offer continually year by year, make those who approach perfect. Hebrews 10:1



We are being told time and again that we are to put out trust in Christ, and to not fall back on the law, a law which could save no one. It is plain, it is clear, and it is not complicated.



Life application: If you are following a teacher or preacher who reintroduce things from the law as necessary requirements for being saved, you are following a heretic. The law is fulfilled in Christ. Get away from that guy. Run, don’t walk.



Heavenly Father, gracious God, thank You for our ability to pursue knowledge, and to seek out understanding of things. It is always a delight to learn more. And yet, help us to apply our knowledge rightly by seeking out how to correctly apply it towards a proper fear of You, pursuing You because of what we know. Help us to be people of faith, growing in faith, and drawing nearer to You moment by moment. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daiiy Bible Verse, Colossians 2:18, 27 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 2017

Thursday, 27 April 2017



Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, Colossians 2:18



Paul begins verse 18 in a manner similar to verse 16 – “So let no one judge you…” / “Let no one cheat you…” The two thoughts combine as stern warnings against troublemakers whose only intent is holding sway over others. The word “cheat” used by Paul is found only here in the New Testament. It refers to the act of discouraging or misleading believers by diverting them from their full potential in Christ. It is a word which would be used of a judge who makes a wrong call, and which in turn would deprive a person of their rightful prize.



Paul then explains how someone could so deprive a believer. He first says that it would be through “taking delight in false humility.” The word “false” is inserted here, but it gives the correct sense. Humility is thought of as a strong Christian trait, but false humility is something which is loathsome. The way that this false humility is made manifest is through “the worship of angels.” The two thoughts are tied together in a person who would claim that they were so humble as that they would never approach God directly, but would rather come through a mediator. Such false humility would then deprive the believer of their true right, which is to approach the throne of grace boldly (see Hebrews 4:16).



Because of Christ Jesus, we have full right to the throne of God, and we have full access to Him in our time of need. But those who would take delight in false humility would petition dead saints, Mary, or angels such as Michael or Gabriel, claiming that their prayers to such beings would be properly handled by them. It is the trap which Roman Catholicism teaches quite clearly, and those who follow in such teachings are deprived of their rightful use of God’s throne of grace. Jesus Christ is clearly shown to be greater than all angels in the book of Hebrews, and He is noted as the One and only Mediator between God and man in the book of 1 Timothy.



Paul continues to speak of such a person by saying that he is “intruding into those things which he has not seen.” The word “intruding” is another word unique to the New Testament. Paul’s use of it is probably referring to someone who claims to see heavenly visions, and then goes on to explain what their heavenly vision means. In turn, others will then be willing to follow them in their supposedly superior access to divine mysteries. This would cover countless supposed visions of the church age. The RCC is caught up in the visions of Fatima. The Seventh Day Adventists hold fast to the visions of Ellen G. White. The list of such people goes on and on.



They have, and continue to make to this day, claims of divine visions. Some claim to have been to heaven; some to hell; some have had angels stop by their office for coffee. Type in a search on You Tube, and a thousand false claims will come up. Charismatic churches make a million claims a year about divine dreams, visions, and prophesies. Countless books have been written about such things, and yet the Bible tells us that these things are false. All such claims are without merit. With the completion of Scripture, these things have passed away, and the Bible is our sole source of divine inspiration. The book is complete? What more could we use for our life’s doctrine and practice?



Paul warns that anyone who says they have had such a vision is “vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind.” The idea of true humility is to make less of oneself. In essence, it is to shrink in size before another. But such a person is actually making himself larger. He is puffed up like a kernel of corn which pops from heat. The vanity of the person characterizes their false humility. It shows that they have been negatively affected in their minds. They are quacks who speak without any true substance. This is why Paul finishes by noting such a person’s “fleshly mind.” The flesh is that which is carnal, not spiritual. They claim that which is divine, but their claims are actually earthly and sensual. They are to be rejected.



Life application: No matter how true a claim sounds about a heavenly vision, an angelic vision, a trip to hell and back, or whatever else someone claims they have seen, it is always better to keep your money in your wallet, and to not listen to such a person. If their claim is true (which it is not) you haven’t lost anything by ignoring them. If their claim is not true, you have saved yourself from getting sucked in by someone the Bible has warned you about in the first place. Instead of watching their stupid hour-long video, try reading your Bible for an hour. Instead of buying and reading their book, try going to a decent Bible study. In the end, it all comes down to priorities. Don’t waste yours on such nonsense.



Lord God, we have Your word for our life’s doctrine and practice. Why would we need anything else to instruct us? Help us to stay away from people who make false claims about heavenly visions, meetings with angels, trips to hell and back, or any other extra-biblical stuff. Your word is complete, and it is all we need to know what You expect of us. May that be sufficient to us. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:19, 28 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, APRIL 28, 2017

Friday, 28 April 2017



…and not holding fast to the Head, from whom all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God. Colossians 2:19



This verse is rather similar to what he said to the Ephesians –



“ but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ— 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.” Ephesians 4:15, 16



Paul is now bringing an indictment against such a person as mentioned in the preceding verse. It is the one who, as he stated, “is puffed up by his fleshly mind.” This person, as already described, is “not holding fast to the Head.” Christ is the Head, and this person intentionally severs himself from Him by observing things from an obsolete law, and then claiming that his directions came from angelic visions or some other sort of supposed authority.



But Paul notes that it is Christ “from whom all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God.” There is one body which is attached to Christ, and that body is wholly interconnected. It is “nourished and knit together,” and everything works seamlessly because the Head directs it. If someone does not hold fast to Christ, then there is no interconnection, and thus there is no nourishment. And as there is no nourishment, there can be no “growth with the increase that is from God.”



Paul doesn’t say there is no growth at all, but the growth of someone who is not connected to Christ does not come from God. Anything not of God is of the devil. This is the warning that Paul makes in following such a person. He claims spiritual enlightenment, but there is rather spiritual darkness. He claims life and viability, but there is instead only a path which leads to sickness and death.



As a logical connection to what Paul is saying, we need to realize that Christ Jesus is not physically here with us, and neither are the apostles (meaning those who saw and learned directly from Jesus). As this is so, then the Bible – by default – must be our one source of staying connected to the Head. This is why there are no true visions today. This is why we don’t “have a word from the Lord” today. The word from the Lord is the word of the Lord, meaning the Bible. Instead of believing people who make claims about extra-biblical revelation, just think the matter through. What more do we need than what God has supplied us in Scripture?



As the wording used by Paul here is very close to that of Ephesians 4:15, 16, referring to that commentary will provide additional insights into his thoughts of this verse. In the end, the result of not being properly connected to the Head is to follow a sad path which leads to loss.



Life application: How many times, and in how many different ways, does the Bible need to warn us about following false teachers? And yet, countless numbers of people do just that. They may or may not be saved, but even if they are, their doctrine has them in bondage, and the people they follow will only continue to lead them down unhappy trails without any true connection to the Head of the faith.



Lord God, you have set before us a path which You ask us to follow. It is a path of trusting in the completed work of Christ. Anytime we divert from it, we quickly get swept up into crazy teachings which are completely disconnected from Him. We lose the proper nourishment we need, and our spiritual lives lose their true vigor. Help us to fix our eyes on Jesus, and may we never attempt to earn what has already been freely offered through His work. Surely with this You will be pleased. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:20, 29 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, APRIL 29, 2017

Saturday, 29 April 2017



Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations— Colossians 2:20



The word “Therefore” is given to sum up his thoughts of the previous verses. However, it is lacking in many ancient manuscripts. Whether it belongs or not, the question he will ask still stands. And so he asks, “…if you died with Christ.” This is a rhetorical question which carries the intent of, “Because you died with Christ.” The idea of dying with Christ was explained in verses 11 and 12, but it finds a full explanation in Romans 6 (see verses 1-11).



Paul then notes that they have “died with Christ from the basic principles of the world.” This is speaking of the traditions and doctrines of men. It speaks of such principles which are earthly and not of Christ. Christ has fulfilled the law, therefore any ordinance of the law which He fulfilled would be included in this. And those things which were not even of the law, taught by supposed wise men of other cultures, don’t even have a starting point like the law did. If the law, which was once binding but is now annulled in Christ, is a part of what Paul is speaking of, how much more the things which were never even a part of the law!



Because of this, he asks, “Why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations—” The single word translated as “submit yourselves to regulations” is unique to the Bible. It is more appropriately to be translated in the passive voice, and so it should read, “Why do you submit yourself to being dictated to?” In other words, these people are allowing someone else to come in among them and tell them what they should be doing when they are already freed from the very things they are being told to do because they are in Christ.



It would be like a person who had served his time in the military and had been honorably discharged, but then whenever an old superior that he served under comes to visit, he allows himself to get bullied around by that person. He has served, he has been discharged, and he is free from the constraints of his service, but he allows himself to be brought back under unauthorized authority. In this, he allows this person, without any true authority over him, to affect his relationship with his current employer. Who is being neglected then? The rightful, current employer! This is what happens when one places a principle of this world over the freedom found in Christ. Paul will give examples of this in the coming verse.



Life application: In having died with Christ, we are free from the bondage of the law, and from any other supposed spiritual principles of the world. We are to live in Christ, and for Christ. We are to trust in His grace which came at such a high cost.



Lord God, when considering the cross of Christ, it is right that we who accept that payment would then be willing to submit ourselves to what that payment signifies. We have been freed from the law, and so it is right that we serve the Lord who fulfilled it in our place, not trusting in our own deeds to please You, but being grateful for Christ who accomplished this for us. And so we do thank You, and we do praise You. Great are You, O God, and You are most worthy of our praise. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:21, 30 April 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, APRIL 30, 2017

Sunday, 30 April 2017



“Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle,” Colossians 2:21



The words here have no connecting particles. They are sent out in rapid-fire succession in order to show the urgency of the commands by those who would forbid another person from doing what they believe is wrong to do.



However, the first word translated as “touch,” and the last word translated as “handle,” should be switched. It should read, “Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch.” Both words are very close in meaning, but the last phrase means a less deliberate touch than the first. What is happening is the person doing the warning is making a climax of prohibitions. In essence, they are saying, “Don’t handle such a thing! No, don’t taste such a thing! And don’t EVEN TOUCH such a thing!”



This is referring to the Judaizers who would warn against something like eating pork, a meat considered unclean according to the Law of Moses. Here comes such a person into this group of Gentiles who have been sanctified by the blood of Christ which was shed in fulfillment of the law. And what do they do? They urgently reapply the precepts of that obsolete law to the lives of these already purified souls. “Hey, what are you doing? That’s bacon! That bacon comes from an unclean animal! Don’t handle such a thing! No, don’t taste such a thing! And don’t EVEN TOUCH such a thing.” Bam! Bam! Bam! They fire off their legalistic warnings.



But Paul tells them otherwise, and he will explain it more fully in his words to come. Not to leave the verse hanging though, if you smell that delightful waft of bacon, feel free to pick it up, snack on it, and enjoy it. It cannot make you any less saved, and it cannot defile you in any way. The law is fulfilled in Christ and it is finished. It is nailed to the cross. Thank God for the freedom we have in Him!



And as a side note, this set of prohibitions doesn’t just apply to the dislikes of the Jews, but of anyone who would come to you and say the same about any other tradition or teaching of man. As Paul says in Romans 14:14 –



“I know and am convinced by the Lord Jesus that there is nothing unclean of itself; but to him who considers anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean.”



Life application: If there is a food you find nummy, then nom nom away. You are free from guilt, even if you are not free from some type of stomach troubles because of how much you eat.



Lord God, the freedom which is found in Christ is so wonderful. For those in Him, there are no restrictions on the things we eat or the days we worship. We live in Him in Spirit and in truth, and have been freed from the constraints of the law. Those things are nailed to His cross where we died with Him. Now let us live to You through Him. Praise to You, O God, for our marvelous Lord Jesus. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, Colossians 2:22, 1 May 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, MAY 1, 2017

Monday, 1 May 2017



…which all concern things which perish with the using—according to the commandments and doctrines of men? Colossians 2:22



“Which” is referring to the words, “Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle,” of the previous verse. The error of those who attempt to reinsert the prescriptions of the Law of Moses, or some other group who would mandate their own traditions or customs which are contrary to the finished work of Christ, is that they fail to see that these “concern things which perish with the using.”



The words “with the using” come from the Greek words, té apochrésis. This word, apochrésis, found only here in the Bible, gives the idea of “using up,” and thus being consumed. Combined with the word “perish,” which gives the idea of corruption through decomposition, we are given the correct idea of what Paul is speaking of. When someone eats something, regardless of what it is, it breaks down into something else. The very eating of the thing destroys it. In other words, it is what Jesus was speaking of in Mark 7:18-23 –



So He said to them, “Are you thus without understanding also? Do you not perceive that whatever enters a man from outside cannot defile him, 19 because it does not enter his heart but his stomach, and is eliminated, thus purifying all foods?”20 And He said, “What comes out of a man, that defiles a man. 21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22 thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within and defile a man.”



Life application: The food regulations which are fulfilled in Christ, along with all of the law, are nullified. Any such teaching now is no longer of God, but is “according to the commandments and doctrines of men.” The New Covenant is now in place, and thus the Old is set aside. And so if anyone says to you concerning that tasty pork chop, “Don’t touch, don’t taste, don’t handle!” You can tell them, “Take a turn off the heresy highway, and onto the road of righteousness. I am purified not by my own deeds, but by the work of Christ.” And then go enjoy your dinner.



Heavenly Father, what a beautiful world You have given us. What wonderful tastes, smells, and sensations surround us! From moment to moment, if we will just look, we will always see some wonderful hint that You are there and tending to us. Help us not to be so consumed with the busyness of life that we miss the precious displays of Your care for us, and which tell us You really are concerned about us. Praises to You, our great Creator! Amen.