What does Colossians 2:22 mean?

Explanation

Colossians 2:22 states, "[Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?]" This verse is part of a larger discussion by the Apostle Paul, who is addressing the Colossian church.

Paul is cautioning the believers against following human teachings and traditions that are being imposed on them as if they were divine commandments.

These practices are characterized as perishable with use, meaning they are temporary and without eternal significance.

The deeper meaning here is that the value and importance of certain religious rituals and rules diminish as they are merely human inventions and not the eternal truths of God.

Historical Context

Colossians was written by Paul in the first century AD, and the letter addresses the early Christian community in Colossae.

During this time, the Colossians were exposed to various religious influences, including Jewish legalism, early Gnostic thought, and pagan practices, all of which were reflected in the local syncretistic religious environment.

These influences often brought in strict dietary laws, festivals, and ascetic practices that were not part of the teachings of Christ.

Paul's letter aims to counter these extraneous teachings and affirm the sufficiency of Christ above human traditions and philosophies.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, Colossians 2:22 reflects the concept of the "regulations of the world" as opposed to the "things above," which Paul distinguishes earlier in the chapter.

Many theologians view this as a clear statement against legalism, the idea that salvation or spiritual growth is achievable through human works or adherence to certain rules. Instead, Paul points toward grace and the redemptive work of Christ.

The verse suggests that human doctrines and rules are transient and lack the divine authority of the teachings of Jesus and the Scriptures.

Practical Applications

In everyday life, this scripture can be applied by emphasizing the focus on spiritual practices and beliefs that are rooted in Scripture and the teachings of Jesus, rather than man-made traditions or rituals that have no biblical mandate.

Christians are reminded to discern the practices they follow, ensuring that they do not replace or undermine the core of the gospel, which is the grace of God and the salvation found in Christ alone.

Cross-References

• Matthew 15:9 - "But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men."
• Isaiah 29:13 - "Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:"
• Mark 7:7 - "Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men."
• Romans 14:17 - "For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost."

Language Study

The phrase "perish with the using" in Greek is "ἀπόχρησιν φθορᾶς" (apochresin phthoras), which can be translated as "use leading to destruction." The term "φθορᾶς" (phthoras) pertains to decay or destruction, indicating that these practices lead to a spiritual dead-end.

"Commandments" and "doctrines" in Greek are "ἐντολῶν", "διδασκαλίας" (entolon, didaskalias), which can refer to instructions or teachings, emphasizing that they are of human origin and not divine commands.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Similar to the Colossians' context, many ancient religions had strict dietary laws, ritual purity codes, and religious festivals.

These were thought to appease gods, achieve purity, or attain spiritual enlightenment.

Paul's teaching contrasts with these by asserting that spiritual enlightenment and purity come through Christ alone, not through adherence to such practices.

In other religious systems, rituals and traditions often carry the weight of divine commandment, while in Christianity, per Paul's teaching, the center is the relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific thinking emphasizes observable, testable, and repeatable phenomena, which stands in contrast to religious rituals and traditions that are often passed down without empirical basis.

From a scientific perspective, this verse may reflect an understanding that religious practices do not necessarily correspond to physical or empirical truth.

Instead, they may be seen as psychological or social constructs, underlining Paul's point that they should not be elevated to the level of divine doctrine.

Commentaries

Commentators generally agree that Paul is concerned about the spiritual well-being of the Colossian believers, urging them to avoid the pitfalls of legalism and asceticism.

The Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary notes that these "ordinances" are human "teachings" which indeed "perish with the using," highlighting their temporary and insignificant nature in contrast to the eternal nature of Christ's teachings.

Matthew Henry's Commentary adds that the "ordinances" Paul refers to were indeed meant to be in force until Christ's coming, but with His advent, they are now abrogated.

John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible interprets these traditions and commandments as decrees that are carnal and external, having no value in terms of righteousness before God.