Religion to Relationship

Pastor Chris Wall • Colossians 2:18-23

At the church in Colossae, these gnostic teachers were bringing some legalistic heat. For these guys, their doctrines combined an odd mixture of Jewish legalism, oriental mysticism and some of their favorite Christian teachings. Because of their background, Jewish preferences became the standard of real spirituality. In this passage, Paul points to the preeminence of Christ over the bondage of legalism. More than ever, this is still true today. Mankind is incredibly creative in making up religious rules. We have got to help our people understand the true freedom that we experience in Christ. Of course, this does not mean the way we live does not matter. It matters a great deal. However, Christ has come to free us from the chains of religion giving us the gift of a relationship with Him that is real and personal. We get to live every day in union with Christ because the Holy Spirit dwells in us.