Key Words: Rudiments, Ordinances, Circumstances. Appear, Church
Paul’s letter to the Colossians deals with Greek philosophies and Jewish legalism that was infiltrating the church. The rudiments of the world refer to the elements of the law of Moses. The cross of Christ removed the ordinances of the Law. The circumcision that believers have is the circumcision made without hands (spiritual).
Paul appears to dispute the “Jewish” emphasis on circumcision and traditions (Colossians 2:8-11; 3:11). The heresy addressed appears to be either a Jewish-Gnosticism or a mix between Jewish ascetism and Greek philosophy. He does a remarkable job in pointing us to sufficiency of Christ.
God requires the circumcision of the heart, which is done through Christ. (2:11).
Key Verses: 1:18, 24, 2:8, 11-15, 3:4
Blessings
Apostle John