Even though most of us have not contended with such misrepresentations,

there are even lesser things that are promoted as objects of worship. There are other forms of unlawful adoration that are more common to us. There are those who give the glory and honor due to Jesus only, to movements, creeds, and theological views. This is a common practice, and is strictly forbidden by the sense of this text.

INTRUDING INTO THINGS NOT SEEN

            “ . . . intruding into those things which he hath not seen . . . ” Other versions read, “taking his stand on visions he has seen,” ^NASB “goes into great detail about what he has seen,” ^NIV “dwelling on visions,” ^NRSV “having his thoughts fixed on things he has seen,” ^BBE “entering into things which he has not seen,” ^DARBY “walking in the things which he hath not seen,” ^DOUAY “going on in detail about visions,” ^ESV “advancing himself in those things which he never saw,” ^GENEVA “pinning every hope on visions received,” ^NJB and “even though they day they have received visions about this.” ^NLT

            As you can see, the various versions present two seemingly contradictory ideas. First, that these false teachers are intruding into things they have NOT seen. Second, that they are intruding into things they HAVE seen. What is the meaning of this expression.

✙     First, these men profess to be dealing with things that are NOT visible to mortals – in particular, things that have to do with angels. Such a teacher barges into these areas, “intruding into things which he hath NOT seen” – things not visible.

✙     Second, their teaching is based upon private visions they profess to have experienced, without any regard for the Word of God or the Person of Christ – “taking his stand on visions HE has seen.” ^NASB

✙     Third, a spiritual assessment is given of these teachers. In it, Paul affirms they are trespassing in a forbidden area, and have really seen nothing at all – “intruding into things which he hath NOT seen.”

            There is a sense in which all of these views are true. The particular emphasis of this text, however, is confirmed in the verse that follows. The point is that these men were pretentious. They had barged into forbidden areas, and were teaching things they had not perceived at all. There are areas of reality that are not meant to be traversed by men. As it is written, “The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever . . . ” (Deu 29:29).

            Further, God has “revealed” the matters intended for us to know, through the Lord Jesus Christ. It is through Christ that God has spoken in “these last days” (Heb 1:2). All the fulness of the Godhead dwells in Christ. All of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are “hid” in Christ alone. Anyone and everyone who teaches a message that does not have Jesus at its center, or has not come through Him and His appointed expositors, the Apostles, is the type of teacher mentioned in this text.

            A contemporary example of such teaching is Mormonism – one of the fastest growing religious cults of our time. It is based upon as message Joseph Smith professed to receive from an angel. It involved the writing of additional Scripture, and the upstaging of Jesus by a purported prophet than came after Him. Those who embrace this teaching choose to be known as Christians, more precisely referred to as “latter day saints.” However, they have been turned away from Christ, not to Him. By their own confession, they are not complete in Christ. They have therefore been “beguiled” of their reward.

VAINLY PUFFED UP WITH HIS FLESHLY MIND

            “ . . . vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind . . . ” Other versions read, “inflated without cause by his fleshly mind,” ^NASB “his unspiritual mind puffs him up with idle notions,” ^NIV “puffed up without cause by a human way of thinking,” ^NRSV “puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind,” ^RSV “being foolishly lifted by his natural mind,” ^BBE and “their sinful minds have made them proud.” ^NLT

            The idea is that there is no point to or benefit in such a person or his teaching. Whatever significance this kind of teacher appears to have is only a vain show – it is not real. The person makes a claim to being humble, but is really puffed up with pride. He is dominated by the fleshly mind that cannot possibly be humble. The carnal mind cannot traffic in the things of God, for it is “enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be” (Rom 8:7). The “natural man,” which is synonymous with the “fleshly mind,” does not receive “the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; neither can he know him, because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Cor 2:14).

            Such a mind inflates a person’s opinion of himself – which is the opposite of humility. Let it be clear, when the “fleshly mind” dominates a person, it is not possible to avoid its effects. In this case, it will move a teacher to probe in forbidden areas, and imagine that he has done so under the direction of God. The teaching that such a person brings may appear humble, but it is not. The fact that Jesus is not prevalent in it means the teaching will take away the reward of those who receive it. The business of the saints is to see to it they are not beguiled by such men.

THE JEOPARDY OF THE TIMES

            One of the jeopardies of our times is the exaltation and veneration of religious scholarship and educational attainments. While it is certainly not wrong to discipline our minds, and profit from exposure to the truly wise men of the ages, such attainments must be made subordinate to faith. The most precise as extensive training and discipline of the mind is accomplished by faith. When a person believes God and relies upon Him, the mind is made better, and thoughts more acceptable to God.

            If this is not kept in mind, men will actually assign to the mind a value that causes the Lord Jesus to occupy a lesser role in personal life. In such a case, teaching will become corrupted, for a fleshly mind cannot contain or expound the truth of God. Where, therefore, such a mind is promoted, Jesus is necessarily excluded.

            It requires an extraordinary amount of faith and vigilance to train the mind, yet maintain one’s faith. Many a soul has lost their faith in the name of education, and many a preacher has settled for powerless presentation by insisting on allowing the “fleshly mind” to assert itself in their preaching. The only answer to this jeopardy is to be Christ centered in our thinking.

            In Jesus the word of Isaiah finds its ultimate fulfillment: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee” (Isa 26:3). In the soil of “perfect peace” the fruits of righteousness will grow – fruits no regulation can produce.

   NOT HOLDING THE HEAD

            “ ^19a And not holding the Head. . . ” Other versions read, “not holding fast to the Head,” ^NKJV “He has lost connection with the Head,” ^NIV “not joined to the Head,” ^BBE “not holding closely to the Head,” ^NAB “such a person has no connection to the Head,” ^NJB and “they are not connected to Christ.” ^NLT

            This is speaking of the one beguiling the saints of their reward. He comes in a vain display of humility, and promotes obeisance to things and personalities who are created. The reason for the corruption of such an individual is that he is not “holding the Head,” or connected with Christ. Whatever comes to the saints must come through Christ, or it is an obstacle to the obtaining of glory. A resource that does not come from Jesus is not a resource at all. It may have an appearance of humility and wisdom, but we must not be deceived by it.

            It must be remembered that there is only one Head – the Lord Jesus Christ. The Grecian empire was pictured as a leopard with four heads (Dan 7:6). Satan is depicted as a great red dragon with “seven heads” (Rev 12:3). The adversarial beast that rose out of the sea to oppose the church had “seven heads” (Rev 13:1). Spiritual Babylon, the apostate church, is set forth as a harlot carried by a beast with “seven heads” (Rev 17:3,7,9). But when it comes to the total picture, there is only one Head, and it is the Lord Jesus. He is in every sense of the word “the Head OVER ALL THINGS” (Eph 1:22). He is “THE Head, even Christ” (Eph 4:15). Not only is He “the Head of THE BODY, the church” (Col 1:18), He is also “the Head of ALL principality and power” (Col 2:10).

            In redemption, a connection is made between the Lord Jesus and the church – the Head and the body. Whatever comes to the body is sent by Christ through the gifts He has given to the church (Eph 4:8-16). When it comes to messages, God has nothing to say to the church that does not come directly from Jesus. Thus it is written, “God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed Heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds” (Heb 1:1-2). The word of God to those who saw the glory of the Son on the holy mount was, “Hear ye Him!” (Matt 17:5).

THE SOURCE OF ALL SPIRITUAL LIFE

            The Headship of Christ does involve His authority over everything and every one. However, in this text, authority is not the subject. Here the distribution of resources and the maintenance of the life of the church are the point – as seen in the relationship of the head to the body. All spiritual life comes directly from Christ, who is “the Head of the body.” Absolutely no spiritual life results from a mere procedure, a routine, a program, or a habit.

            This flies directly in the face of much of contemporary Christianity. Religious “how to” merchants have appeared like a horde of ants upon the landscape of religious life. They come in the form of procedural experts, counselors, and educators. They offer ways for the people of God to be guaranteed Divine favor and success – but the ways are not centered in Christ, and do not require Christ. The secret of their methods is not faith but work. It is personal discipline, not a personal trust in the Lord. The heart and core of their religion is a sort of outline, and not a life-sustaining connection with the Lord of glory. They are like those who recommend standing in the glow of incandescent lights, when they could reside in the blazing glory of “the Sun of righteousness” (Mal 4:2). Beware of them!

NO RELATION TO CHRIST

            Whatever is unrelated to Christ cannot be essential to the acquisition or maintenance of spiritual life. Furthermore, the teacher who is not in Christ, and to whom Jesus is not manifesting Himself (John 14:23), has no place among the people of God. Every valid spiritual resource is found with Christ, and is sent by Him to His people.

            Whenever a preacher or a teacher brings something to the people that did NOT come from Jesus, it is because that person himself is not holding to the Head. That is why the Lord Jesus does not speak to Him, there is no connection with Him – the connection accomplished by faith.

Serious Charges

            These are serious charges, but they are intended to be. Paul does not take for granted that Juidaizers promoting circumcision, holy days, new moons, and Sabbaths, are serious. He does not tell us they are sincere, devoted, and convinced they are right. He does not point to the teachers who promote a self-imposed humility and say they are just not clear on a few things. He does not commend them for having a high regard for heavenly beings, like angels.

            The subversion of the faith of God’s elect is never traced back to an innocent teacher, a naive preacher, or a benign procedure. Rather, it has come from a person who himself is not holding fast to the Head. Such an one is not walking in the light as Jesus is in the light (1 John 1:7). Their doctrine is not the result of them being “joined to the Lord” (1 Cor 6:17). It is the absence of a real association with the Lord Jesus that has produced their doctrines – doctrines that will rob the saints of their reward and disqualify them from the prize.

            I hardly see how anything could possibly be more serious, or have more far reaching implications. O, that more were given to see this!

   THE NECESSITY AND SOURCE OF NOURISHMENT

            “ ^19b . . . from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.”

            Now the Spirit will further establish the role of the Lord Jesus in regard to spiritual growth and advance. He does not take for granted that the people see this, for “many false prophets are gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1). Every single one of them have this in common: the Lord Jesus Christ, in whom the fulness of the Godhead dwells, is not at the heart of their teaching. They may boast that they have made a place for Him, but it is not the preeminent place. When the people were faced with the early believers, “they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus”(Acts 4:13). Those believers were holding fast to the Head. However, the teachers of our text are not noted for being “with Jesus.” Rather, they are noted for their peculiar methods, techniques, and procedures.

            The Spirit now reasons upon the indispensable role of Jesus. It is a principle of truth that it always stands up to the test of sound reason. Faith is not unreasonable, but has a logic of its own. What follows will make perfect sense, therefore, to those who believe.

ALL THE BODY

            “ . . . from which all the body. . . ” Other versions read, “from WHOM all the body,” ^NKJV “from whom the entire body,” ^NASB and “from whom the whole body.” ^NIV

            The means through which every single member of the body of Christ is nourished is Christ Himself. It is not possible to become truly better by keeping a routine or following a discipline. Some will vigorously contest this statement, but their objections will all fall to the ground like weightless motes. Either life comes from Jesus, or it does not come at all! If Jesus Himself does not sustain the individual, they will not be sustained, vigorous religious disciplines notwithstanding.

            Note, the words that follow relate to “all the body” – not just the stronger believer. I understand that there is a stage during which we are “under tutors and governors” – guardians and managers. ^NASB However, that is not a time of real growth. Rather, it is the appointed way of keeping sin from breaking forth. As it is written, “Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all; but is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world” (Gal 4:1-3).

            However, this whole situation changes when the Lord Jesus is brought into the picture. “And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ” (Gal 4:7). This is true of “all the body.” Its maturity does not depend upon rules and regulations, but upon a vital connection with Jesus – a connection that is sustained by faith.

            This puts the lie to the Joseph Smith’s (Mormonism), Mary Baker Eddy’s (Christian Science) and C. T. Russell (Jehovah’s Witnesses) of the world. In each of these cases, information was received that did not come from Jesus. This being the case, it is not possible for their doctrine to support the saints, for whatever Jesus does not give has no place in sustaining and maturing the people of God!

            This is a point upon which we must be dogmatic. It is involved in our Lord’s affirmation, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me” (John 14:6). There is no point in the Christian experience where this ceases to be true.

            The objective of every valid ministry is to enable the people to make the connection with Jesus! If this does not happen, nothing else matters. No discipline or procedure can compensate for not holding fast to the Head.

            Remember, this is true for “all the body,” not just for the leaders. The aim is assist all of the members to “grow up into Christ in all things.”

Confirmation in Ephesians

            This same truth is again stated in the book of Ephesians. “the Head, even Christ: from whom the whole body . . . ” (Eph 4:16). The “whole body” is every single member of it. No one in Christ Jesus is afforded the luxury of remaining infantile and unlearned. No provision has been made for a member of Christ’s body to remain in a state of ignorance. Although the condition is quite common, a lack of spiritual growth is never right. It is wrong for a person living in the brightness of the day of salvation to remain in a state of spiritual infancy. Christ has been exalted, and is presently ministering spiritual sustenance to His people, bringing them from one stage of glory to another through the working of the Holy Spirit (2 Cor 3:18). If this change is not taking place, it is because the connection with Jesus is not firm – and that is the most favorable view of the situation.

            It is the responsibility of every prophet, preacher, teacher, elder, etc., to bring the people into a deeper and more productive fellowship with the Son of God. If this does not happen, the individuals will not be strengthened, and the professed leader has been unfaithful. They may adhere to a sectarian creed, and be good members in standing, but if they are not connected with Jesus, they will not grow.

JOINTS AND BANDS

            “ . . . by joints and bands . . . ” Other versions read, “joints and ligaments,” ^NKJV “ligaments and sinews,” ^NIV and “joints and ligaments.” ^RSV

            The word “joints” means bond, fastening or connection. “Bands” means that which binds together – the middle item that joins two or more things together: link, joint, bond. In the body, sinew, ligament, muscle. ^THAYER The meaning is that Jesus ministers to the whole body from the point at which they are connected to Him. The ministry itself is accomplished at the point where people are united with one another.

            Two things, therefore, must take place before effective ministry can be realized. First, the one ministering must be connected to Jesus. Second, he must be connected with those to whom he is ministering. The godly teacher is connected with the Lord Jesus by means of spiritual sinews and muscles. The same is true of his connection with the people. The people themselves are also connected to Jesus by the same means. If these connections are in place, spiritual sustenance will flow from the Head to the teacher, and then to the people. If either connection is missing, edification is impossible!

            The preeminent sinew is faith, which is always associated with hope and love. This “threefold cord” is not easily broken, and firmly holds the people together with Christ and with one another. However, if any of these are weak or missing, the sustaining flow of life is interrupted. It is not possible to overstate this fact.

NOURISHMENT MINISTERED

            “ . . . having nourishment ministered . . . ” Other versions read, “nourished,” ^NKJV “being supplied,” ^NASB “supported,” ^NIV “being given strength,” ^BBE “ministered to,” ^DARBY “supplied with nourishment,” ^DOUAY “furnished,” ^GENEVA “given all that it needs,” ^NJB “get our nourishment and strength,” ^NLT and “gathering supply.” ^YLT

            The ministration itself comes from the Lord Jesus Christ – the Head. It comes through the vital connection that is made with Him in salvation. It is realized at the point the lives of His people intersect with one another. That intersection is not in the flesh, but in the spirit. The life of one believer can connect with the life of another who has actually past from this world – like coming into the fellowship of “the spirits of just men made perfect” (Heb 12:23). Those separated by distance can also have a spiritual impact upon one another (Col 2:5). Jesus, for example, can still minister to people through Paul. He can minister to us through those remaining in this world, yet far from us. He can also minister to us through face to face fellowship. But He will only do so through the “joints and bands” – the spiritual points at which we intersect with Him and with one another.

            In view of this circumstance, the current trend of infrequent gatherings and reduced exposure to things pertaining to life and godliness is exposed for what it really is. Through such trends the work of God is being circumvented, spiritual growth inhibited, and connections with Jesus eroded. If these statements seem strong, let it be known that they are not nearly strong enough.

            No person can survive in this world without spiritual nourishment. It simply is not possible. Furthermore, no person can receive that nourishment if it does not come from Jesus. It cannot be received if there is no connection with Jesus, nor can it be received if there is no connection with one another. That, of course, is the significance of the church being called “the body of Christ” (1 Cor 12:27; Eph 1:23; 4:12; 5:30).

KNIT TOGETHER

            “ . . . and knit together . . . ” Other versions read, “held together,” ^NASB “kept together,” ^BBE “united together,” ^DARBY “compacted,” ^DOUAY and “joined together.” ^NLT

            The idea is that believers are knit, or held, together by what passes to them from Jesus. Speaking of the same marvelous process, the book of Ephesians states it this way: “From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part” (Eph 4:16). The NASB reads, “from whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by that which every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part” (Eph 4:16).

            Here is the true picture of unity, and it conflicts sharply with many views of unity. We are not held together by what we believe, but by what we supply and receive! It is not our name that unites us, or our religious heritage, but the nourishment sent from Jesus, that has been ministered to us through the various members of the body. Therefore, where unity does not exist, Jesus has not been nourishing the saints. Where that nourishment is lacking, there has not been a proper connection with the Head. Of course, this has some rather significant implications. It is not our prerogative to go about judging other people. Rather, our energies are to be expended in realizing the productive fellowship of the Lord Jesus, who Himself supplies nourishment to His body.

            A spectating religion is one that is necessarily characterized by spiritual poverty. It is one where nourishment cannot be properly realized. A religion of specialists produces spiritual malnutrition – like a whole body which only has functioning little fingers, but is impotent everywhere else.

            There are efforts being made to knit God’s people together independently of the nourishment that comes from Christ. They are all futile, for Jesus will not work through them. Whatever progress they may appear to make is superficial, and has no substance at all. Men are not united together by opening books, or joining in the same institutional cause, but by being connected with Jesus.

THE INCREASE OF GOD

            “ . . . increaseth with the increase of God.” Other versions reads, “grows with the increase that is from God,” ^NKJV “grows with a growth which is from God,” ^NASB “grows as God causes it to grow,” ^NIV “has its growth with the increase of God,” ^BBE “growth into the increase of God,” ^DOUAY “achieves the growth that comes from God,” ^NAB “grows as God causes it to grow,” ^NIB “grows with the growth given by God,” ^NJB and “we victual as we get our nourishment and strength from God.” ^NLT

            Note the enlargement of the thought. It has been stated that nourishment is ministered by the Head, Jesus Christ, through and to those who are connected to Him. Now it is stated that the actual increase, or growth, comes from God Himself. Elsewhere it is clearly said, “God giveth the increase” (1 Cor 3:6-7). Ezekiel also spoke of God giving increase (Ezek 36:37).

            All increase is not good. David spoke of those who troubled him being “increased” (Psa 3:1). There are those in the world of whom it is said, “the glory of his house is increased.” Yet, when that person dies, “he shall carry nothing away” (Psa 49:16-17). Even “backslidings” have been said to increase (Jer 5:6), as well as sins (Jer 30:14).

            Only the increase that God gives is acceptable. Faith can be “increased” (2 Cor 10:15). Churches can be “increased” in number (Acts 16:5). The “fruits of righteousness” can also “increase” (2 Cor 9:10). There can even be an “increase” in love for one another (1 Thess 3:12), as well as in giving (1 Thess 4:10). This is the kind of increase that comes from God.

            Yet, this increase is not automatic, but is realized through appointed means. God will not cause anything or anyone to grow that has not been nourished by Jesus. If the source of the life cannot be traced back to the direct ministration of Jesus, God will not cause it to grow – and all other growth is, at best, simulated. It is neither real nor acceptable.

            The nourishment ministry is an aspect of Christ’s mediatorship. He is, after all, “the Mediator of the New Covenant” (Heb 9:15; 12:24). As such, He administers spiritual victuals to His people. This is accomplished through the union with Himself that is realized in the new birth.

            Do you wonder why spiritual growth is so rare? There are poor souls who hear more about psychological principles (if there be such a thing) than the preaching of the Gospel. They are exposed to more speculation than Gospel affirmation. All manner of communication is taking place that is not the result of holding “fast to the Head.” It is not possible for such bantering to yield spiritual nutrition – which means it is impossible for God to grant increase under such conditions. These are weighty considerations, but they are surely true.

A RESTATEMENT OF THE CASE

            What we have just considered is an explanation for the spiritual sterility of any message that does not have its genesis in Christ. If we are truly “complete in Him,” then we are thoroughly incomplete without Him. The Lord Jesus nourishes His people through a vital association with Himself. Working with this indispensable nourishment, God brings about the increase that is essential to our salvation.

            Where that increase is not being experienced, God is not at work. Where God is not at work, Jesus has not been sending out nourishment. Where Jesus is not sending our nourishment, there is no connection with Him.

   IF YOU ARE DEAD WITH CHRIST

            “ ^20a Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world . . . ”

            The Apostle now begins to reason with us upon the basis of what he has affirmed.

✙     All the fulness of the Godhead dwells in Christ bodily.

✙     We are complete in Him.

✙     Jesus has circumcised us, “putting off the body of the sins of the flesh.”

✙     We have been raised from death in trespasses and sins.

✙     All of our trespasses have been forgiven.

✙     All nourishment comes from Christ, who is the exclusive “Head.”

✙     This nourishment is ministered through our vital connection with Him.

            There are certain implications in all of these realities. By that I mean there are specific effects that are realized because of them. They are not mere statements, but are words containing both “spirit” and “life” (John 6:63). When they are comprehended, they make sin unreasonable and righteousness reasonable. They cause the wisdom of this world to be seen as “foolishness,” and the wisdom of God as powerful (1 Cor 3:19,24).

WHEREFORE

            “Wherefore . . . ” Other versions read “Therefore,” ^NKJV “Since,” ^NIV and “You have.” ^NLT

            It is not enough to know the facts of a matter. We must also be able to reason upon them – to build sound thoughts and conclusions upon the foundation of truth. An unthinking people is invariably a people dominated by sin. A religion that does not promote godly thinking dries up the soul of the people. Any approach to serving God that relies more upon discipline and habit than upon thoughtfulness and insight is actually powerless.  

            The question that follows is based upon assumed acceptance of the affirmations that have been made. The absolute truthfulness of those affirmations compels the Apostle to reason in this manner.

            Much of the preaching of our day is covered with the shroud of doubt. Speakers appear to be unsure of themselves, and they deliver words that have not been burned into their heart and conscience. Too often an atmosphere of uncertainty is the result, where no solid convictions are held, and no firm resolves are made toward the Lord. It is imperative that the people of God rid themselves of influences that contribute to such uncertainty.

IF YE BE DEAD

            “ . . . if ye be dead with Christ . . .” Other versions read, “if you died with Christ,” ^NKJV “If you have died with Christ,” ^NASB “Since you died with Christ,” ^NIV “If with Christ you died,” ^ESV “If you have really died with Christ,” ^NJB and “If, then, ye did die with Christ.” ^YLT

            He is referring to the death that was realized at the time of our baptism. This is not the death in trespasses and sins from which we were quickened (Eph 2:1,5; Col 1:13). Rather, this is the death into which we were inducted by our union with Christ. Thus he speaks of being “dead WITH Christ.” The sixth chapter of Romans refers to this death with Christ in these words, “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death?” (Rom 6:3). And again, “Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death” (Rom 6:4). And again, “For he that is dead is freed from sin” (Rom 6:7). And again, “Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him” (Rom 6:8).

            The issue here is not whether or not we should die with Christ, but whether or not we are actually dead with Him. This casts a light upon baptism to which many are not accustomed. Too many of my former acquaintances have viewed baptism more as a requirement, than an ordinance in which marvelous things were actually accomplished. It was not enough that the Colossians were baptized. They were not to rest in that alone. Now they are brought to reason upon their baptism.

            This is death TO sin, not death IN sin! Believers are reason upon the basis of this death. As it is written, “Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom 6:11). We have also become “dead to the Law,” with its condemnation and ordinances (Rom 7:4). In Jesus we died to sin and to the world order. We are no longer under the dominion of sin and the world, and are therefore no longer obligated to them.

            Paul refers to this death when speaking of his own crucifixion. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me” (Gal 2:20). Again he testifies, “But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world” (Gal 6:14). He will now reason upon one aspect of this death.

THE RUDIMENTS OF THE WORLD

            “ . . . from the rudiments of the world . . . ” Other versions read, “from the basic principles of the world,” ^NKJV “to the elementary principles of the world,” ^NASB “elemental spirits of the universe,” ^NRSV “the rules of the world,” ^BBE “ordinances of the world,” ^GENEVA and “elemental powers of the world.” ^NAB

            The word “rudiments” means first things, or basics, like the alphabet is to grammar. Rudiments have more to do with controlling waywardness and acquainting one with duty. They are not intended for the mature, and do not contribute to maturity. At some point, the child of God must move from “rudiments” to “strong meat” (Heb 5:12,14).

            Being “dead” to these rudiments means they are no longer the principles by which we live. The newness of life into which we were raised to walk (Rom 6:44) cannot be sustained by these principles. Those who maintain that everything should be presented so that a child can understand it, must deal with this fact. Juvenility is not a suitable environment for spiritual growth.

The Danger of Rudimentary Religion

            When one is in bondage to the “rudiments of the world,” a corrupted sense of contentment is developed. The individual caught in such a snare begins to think he has made good advance just because he has refrained from the forbidden, and fulfilled obligations. While this may appear commendable before men, it is not praiseworthy before God. Speaking of this, Jesus said, “So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do” (Luke 17:10).

            New life cannot be poured into the old wineskin of routine or habit. That is the manner of Law, but it is not the manner of grace and the New Covenant! Being alive toward God involves fellowship with Him (1 John 1:3), receiving from Him (1 Cor 2:12), and working with Him (1 Cor 3:9).

   WHY ARE YOU SUBJECT TO ORDINANCES?

            “ ^20b . . . why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances . . . ”

            Some questions are rhetorical – that is, the answer to them is obvious. Here is a question that demands an answer.

            Here is a line of reasoning that is strange in nominal Christendom. It is foreign because it does not fit into the institutional agenda. You cannot maintain a Babylonish form of religion with this kind of mind-set. Further, it conflicts sharply with legalism. However, this is dealing with the way of life – life toward God. This is language that faith can grasp, and in which hope delights.

AS THOUGH LIVING IN THE WORLD

             “ . . . why, as though living in the world . . . ” Other versions read, “why, as if you were living in the world,” ^NASB “why, as though you still belonged to it [the world],” ^NIV “why do you live as if you still belonged to the world,” ^NRSV and “why, as if alive in the world.” ^DARBY

            This question presumes that something very real happened when we were born again. Our baptism into Christ was not a mere formality. Jesus “gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father” (Gal 1:4), and that is precisely what happened. We have been crucified to the world, and the world has been crucified unto us (Gal 6:14). The heavenly mandate is, “Be not conformed to this world” (Rom 12:2). Once we “walked according to the course of this world,” but now we have been delivered from that manner of life (Eph 2:2), and is unlawful to live according to the world any more.

            Those in Christ have been raised together with Christ to “sit in heavenly places” (Eph 2:6). Jesus has chosen us “out of the world,” and our life-sustaining resources can no longer be found in it (John 15:19). Speaking of His disciples to the Father Himself, Jesus twice affirmed “they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world” (John 17:14,16).

            Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36), and we have been translated into it (Col 1:13). It should therefore be obvious that we do not belong to “this present evil world.”

            While we are presently “in the world,” we are not living as though we were. That is, we are not adapting to its manners, or conducting our lives as though it was the primary world. Our citizenship “is in heaven” (Phil 3:20-21), and those who live by faith live with that in mind. Our posture in this world is that of a stranger and pilgrim – someone that traveling through the world, a sojourner.

            This circumstance raises a question that must be answered by those who insist on living by rules, regulations, and habits. Such a life does not harmonize with the salvation that is in Christ Jesus. There is a higher motivation that rules. There are greater incentives than regulations. There are more successful manners than mere habits. Now God’s people will be called into account for not availing themselves of these superior realities.

SUBJECT TO ORDINANCES

            “ . . . are ye subject to ordinances.” Other versions read, “subject yourselves to regulations,” ^NKJV “submit yourselves to decrees,” ^NASB “submit to rules,” ^NIV “under the authority of orders,” ^BBE “burdened with traditions,” ^GENEVA “still let rules dictate to you,” ^NJB and “keep on following the rules of the world.” ^NLT

            At this point, the Spirit embarks on an exposition of spiritual life that sharply conflicts with much that parades itself under the banner of “Christian.” If you were to remove the element of “rules” and “regulations” from the religious arena, there would not be much left. Whole “ministries” would suddenly become defunct. Understand, we are speaking of rules and regulations that men have imposed upon others, and by which believers in Christ are judged by men. These are not procedures that Jesus has imposed upon the church, but precepts of strictly human origin. They are set forth as a means to being godly, controlling the flesh, and acquiring spiritual growth.

            Our text will dogmatically affirm that such “ordinances” are NOT the Divinely appointed means of subduing the flesh, growing in grace, or in any way acquiring spiritual maturity.

            It at once becomes obvious that these “ordinances,” “regulations,” or “rules,” have to do with life in this world. They do not relate to being seated in heavenly places. They have nothing to do with fellowship with Christ (1 Cor 1:9) or the “communion of the Holy Spirit” (2 Cor 13:14). God does not work through them or honor them, and Satan is not neutralized by them. These are not means in which angelic ministers become active. God has not committed His grace and truth to work through these means.

            This is precisely why the question is asked, “Why are ye subject to ordinances?” Death with Christ moves us beyond such regulations, for it immediately addresses the real issues relating to life and godliness. Submission to the rules and regulations of reference actually contradicts the newness of life. It is not the proper response of a person who is “dead with Christ.” It does not fit in with the truth of the “circumcision of Christ.” That is what makes submission to such regulation such a serious matter. The Spirit will now elaborate on this.

CLARIFICATION

            Once again, let it be clear that our text is speaking about rules imposed upon the people of God. These regulations are represented as an appropriate means to reach Divinely appointed goals, or aims. People are affirmed to be the better for submitting to them, and the worse for not doing so. They are set forth as helping a person draw closer to God, and more effectively fulfill His Word.

   THE RELIGION OF PROHIBITION

            “ ²¹ Touch not; taste not; handle not.” Other versions read, “Do not touch, do not taste, do not handle,” ^NKJV “Which say there may be no touching, tasting, or taking in your hands,” ^BBE “Do not pick up this, do not eat that, do not touch the other.” ^NJB

            The words are in a sort of ascendency, becoming more stringent from word to word. They are doubtless referring to the rules regarding various foods and drinks by which some of the saints were being judged. It is as though they said, “Do not take it, do not even taste it, do not so much as touch it!”

CARE MUST BE TAKEN

            Care must be taken in the handling of this passage. It is not a declaration of license, but the announcement that we are not bound to obey the rules men have trumped up. There are Divine prohibitions that are to be honored, from which we are not excluded. Here are a few of them.

✙     “That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well” (Acts 15:29).

✙     “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you” (2 Cor 6:17).

✙     “For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication” (1 Thess 4:3).

✙     “Abstain from all appearance of evil” (1 Thess 5:22).

✙     “Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul” (1 Pet 2:11).

✙     “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit” (Eph 5:18).

            There are things in this world that have a defiling effect – such as fornication and evil. There are also things that are prohibited to us because of their association with life – like the eating of blood. For those with no understanding, such as newly converted Gentiles, there are meats that, when eaten, can lead one to the worship of idols – such as meats offered to idols (1 Cor 8:7).

THE REAL POINT

            The point here is that the essence of true religion is not found in what we do not do. Ours is not a religioun of mere prohibition. Neither, indeed, are we commended to God upon the basis of such things as food. Thus it is written, “But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse” (1 Cor 8:8). The defilement comes from the impact such things have upon the conscience (1 Cor 8:7).

SOME EXAMPLES

            An example of prohibitive religion is found in Paul’s description of a time of apostasy. “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer” (1 Tim 4:1-5). This type of prohibition was formalized by Roman Catholicism, and for many years has been bound upon their people. In recent years, they have relaxed their laws concerning meats.

            Another example is the manner in which the Pharisees taught the people, binding upon them prohibitions that God had not given. Jesus said of them, “For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers” (Mat 23:4).

            There was also the “tradition of the elders,” vigorously maintained by Jewish zealots. “For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders. And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brazen vessels, and of tables” (Mark 7:3-4).

            Under a system of Law, all of these things are ends of themselves. Honoring these rules was thought to produce some spiritual advantage, or put one in a more favorable posture before the Lord. All of them could be done without the involvement of the heart. None of them required faith in God, or a love for God. Whatever may be said of them, they did not serve to strengthen man’s spirit.

   EMPHASIZING WHAT IS PERISHING

            “ ^22a Which all are to perish with the using . . . ” Other versions read, “which all concern things which perish with the using,” NKJV “which all refer to things destined to perish with the using,” ^NASB “These are all destined to perish with use,” ^NIV “All these regulations refer to things that perish with use,” ^NRSV “rules which are all to come to an end with their use,” ^BBE “and all about things which perish even while they are being used,” ^NJB and “Such rules are mere human teaching about things that are gone as soon as we use them.” ^NLT

            You might call this the practical side of religion. If practical matters are reduced to how we deal with perishing things, then we are off on the wrong foot. Kingdom practicality is not found in handling or not handling perishing things. Rather, it is found in the acquisition of things that do not perish: the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23), adding to our faith (2 Pet 1:5-8), seeking things that are above (Col 3:1-2), running with patience the race set before us (Heb 12:1-2), and laying hold on eternal life (1 Tim 6:12).

            We have been called to obtain an “eternal inheritance” (Heb 9:15). We cannot, therefore, become preoccupied with things that are destined to pass away. In particular, our religion must not find its culmination in things pertaining to this world.

            We are dealing with spiritual perspective here. Let no one imagine for a moment that those in Christ are indifferent toward perishing things, living as though they did not even exist. How poignantly this is stated in First Corinthians: “And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away” (1 Cor 7:31). Other versions read, “Those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away” (1 Cor 7:31). The idea is that we refuse to become absorbed into this present evil world, for it will pull us away from heaven. In Christ, we are being “changed from glory unto glory,” moving toward an eternal goal while possessing eternal life. In that posture, inordinate attachment to this world becomes lethal.

            Attachment to this world does not always come by means of enslavement to sinful habits. It can also come by having a religion that deals primarily with what is in this world instead of what is in heaven. That is the chief weakness of the ordinances and regulations against which we are being warned. They make you more conscious of this world than the world to come. They demand that more attention be given to the body that to the soul. They require less of Jesus and more of fleshly effort.

            If our way of thinking and our emphasis has no place in heaven, it is not appropriate for this world either. If the things to which we give our heart, soul, mind, and strength here, making them our emphasis, will have no place in glory, they cannot be an appropriate emphasis now.

            Inherent in this reasoning is the fact that our spirits cannot be made better by attention to the things of this world – even if they are lawful. Worldly disciplines cannot bring you closer to God, or gain a greater degree of favor from Him. You cannot become more pleasing to God simply by refraining from this or that – even when it is necessary to do so. This is a perception that must register upon the conscience of us all.

   THE COMMANDMENTS AND DOCTRINES OF MEN

            “ ^22b . . . after the commandments and doctrines of men?” Other versions read, “according to the commandments and doctrines of men,” ^NKJV “because they are based upon human commands and teachings,” ^NIV “they are simply human commands and teachings,” ^NRSV and “according to human precepts and doctrines.” ^RSV

            It is the source of these rules and regulations that is their weakness. They have not come from God, but from men. Men may affirm they are based upon Scripture, yet it is their own thinking that has created their conclusions.

            Even under the Law, the people of God were faced with the debilitating effects of doctrines taught by men. Isaiah wrote, “Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near Me with their mouth, and with their lips do honor Me, but have removed their heart far from Me, and their fear toward Me is taught by the precept of men” (Isa 29:13). Other versions read, “And their reverence for Me consists of tradition learned by rote,” ^NASB “Their worship of me is made up only of rules taught by men,” ^NIV and “their worship of me is a human commandment learned by rote.” ^NRSV Referring to this passage, Jesus said of His generation, “But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men” (Mat 15:9).Again He said to the Pharisees, “Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye” (Mark 7:13).

            A religion of this type moves one to neglect the Word of God itself, finding refuge in the traditions, doctrines, and regulations of men. The individual thus becomes expert in a sectarian line of thinking, but miserably ignorant concerning the Word of God Himself.

            Let no one imagine for single moment that such an approach is innocent and harmless. Jesus said it voided the worship dictated by those rules, and made the Word of God of none effect. That is, God neither occupies nor works within an environment created by the wisdom of men. The implications of this are staggering, but you do well to think upon it.

            Remember, it has been affirmed that we are “complete” in Christ. Nothing can be added to Him to make our lives more spiritually productive or acceptable! There is no rule, discipline, or procedure conceived by men – regardless of their seeming spirituality – that can give you the advantage in the good fight of faith and the appropriation of eternal life.

            I will concede that there are some disciplines that may assist a person in keeping sin from erupting. However, the subduing of the flesh is in order to the appropriation of the blessing of God. If that appropriation does not take place, the forceful subduement of the external expressions of sin are worthless. I will say more about this matter in the following verses.

TRUE PRACTICALITY

            There is, indeed, a practical side to “true religion.” That aspect of spiritual life, however is NOT placed into the hands of men. God has not licensed experts in this world to solve the problems of humanity. I am going to be dogmatic on this point because of its importance. The religious book stores of this country are filled with books that provide purported secrets to a successful life. They use Scripture, yet the Scriptures do not say what they affirm. There are also all manner of religious professionals who are quite willing to offer you a solution to any dilemma in your life. Of course, all of these experts charge for their services.

            The Word of God unveils to us heaven’s provision for the practical side of spiritual life – the “how-to” of it, if you please. A very succinct statement of this is found in the epistle of First John. After affirming that those in Christ have received an “Unction,” or anointing (1 John 2:20), we are told that this is the appointed means of instructing us in areas not placed under man’s control. That is, even though men are employed in the matter of bringing men to Christ and building them up in the faith (1 Cor 3:5), there is an area of life in which men are not the key contributors. This is, in fact, what men would call the “how-to” aspect of life. As unconventional as it may seem to say this, men are not the appointed interpreters of “how-to” live acceptable lives.

            Here is affirmation of the Spirit: “But the Anointing which ye have received of Him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same Anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as It hath taught you, ye shall abide in Him” (1 John 2:27). Notice the powerful assertions of this text.

✙     The Anointing abides in you. It is understood that this Anointing is the Holy Spirit, given to every child of God (Gal 4:6). The point is not merely to receive the Spirit, but for Him to abide, or remain, in you.

✙     No need for man to teach you. This is not a prohibition of teachers, for God has placed them in the church – and nothing He puts in it is unnecessary (1 Cor 12:28). Rather, this affirms that there is an area in which human teachers have not been given the key ministry.

✙     The Anointing teaches you. The Spirit Himself teaches the individual “of all things,” “concerning al things,” ^NKJV or “about all things.” ^NASB That is, He takes the things God has affirmed and opens them to the individual. This is the “how to” of spiritual life. It is how the Spirit “leads” us in the subduing of the flesh (Rom 8:13).

✙     What the Anointing teaches you is the truth, and not a lie. What the Spirit teaches is flawless, and perfectly adapted to the nature of spiritual life. He accents the Word, points to Christ, and awakens desires to please Him. He gives a proper perception of Christ, self, and the world.

✙     As you learn from Him, you abide in Christ. Here is the objective that is to be achieved in the “how-to” of spiritual life. It is to “abide in Him” – that is, in the Lord Jesus Christ. This is something that must be done if we are to be saved (John 15:1-8).

            The point of our text is that no rule or regulation made by men can enable you to “abide” in Christ. Such rules are ineffectual in the “heavenly places” where we were placed in Christ Jesus (Eph 2:6). They do not reach deep enough in man, where the “thoughts and intents of the heart” are found (Heb 4:12).

            The Lord has reserved the personal direction of His people as His own ministry. That is involved in Christ being the “Good Shepherd” (John 10:11) and the “Captain of our salvation” (Heb 2:10). No rule, however wise it may appear, can do what Jesus has been assigned to do through the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Blessed is the person who learns this! Once grasped, genuine growth will be realized.

   THE SHOW OF WISDOM

            “ ^23a Which things have indeed a show of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body . . . ”

            The matter before us is of such consequence that the Spirit labors, as it was, to bring it home to our hearts. This is something that we must see! It will be difficult for some, for it flies in the face of nearly all contemporary Christianity. However, as you test this teaching, and search the Scriptures to see if it is so, it will be confirmed to your heart.

A SHOW OF WISDOM

            “Which things have indeed a show of wisdom . . . ” Other versions read, “indeed have an appearance of wisdom,” ^NKJV “which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom,” ^NASB “seem to have a sort of wisdom,” ^BBE “they have a semblance of wisdom,” ^NAB and “In these rules you can indeed find what seems to make good sense.” ^NJB

            The rules and regulations of reference are not stupid or foolish in their appearance. It seems that these regulations promote godliness and a high regard for the will of God. They make a lot of sense, and no flaw is apparent in them. They have the appearance of being wise suggestions and good rules. However, the “appearance of wisdom” is not real wisdom! It just looks like wisdom. That is, it is not wise in regards to the purpose of God. In matters pertaining to life and godliness, they are not really wise. They are not recognized in heaven as appropriate guidelines for those who live by faith.

            We will find that their wisdom is on the wrong level. That level is of the earth, not of heaven. It has too much man in it, and too little God. These are not rules the Holy Spirit works with. They are not guidelines for which the intercession of Jesus is made. They do not fit into the “whole armor of God,” and are not a part of “the fruit of the Spirit.” They will not enable a person to “abide in Christ.”

            Rules and regulations created by men and their traditions are like a network of entanglements that snare the soul. They become an end of themselves, and therefore prohibit growth into Christ in all things.

WILL WORSHIP

            “ . . . in will worship . . . ” Other versions read, “self imposed religion,” ^NKJV “self-made religion,” ^NASB “self-imposed worship,” ^NIV “sel-imposed piety,” ^NRSV “self-ordered worship,” ^BBE and “superstition.” ^DOUAY

            “Will worship” is self-invented worship – a way of serving God that has proceeded from the human will rather than from God Himself. The word translated “worship” is evqeloqrhskei,a (eth-elo-thraok-ei-a), and is used only here in Scripture. It does not mean “worship” in the conventional sense of the word, but “piety” – or a life that is offered to God. Several versions use the word “religion,” which is proper, for it refers to the external or outward form of spiritual life.

            The point is that the rules men have created and bound upon others, move men to express themselves in a stereotyped manner, according to set routines and procedures. On the one hand, the elaborate liturgies of Catholicism and Orthodox churches are examples of such things. On the other extreme, the modern praise movement offers an excellent example self-imposed routines. Much of it is nothing more than an empty routine.

            Keep in mind, these are rules that are being bound upon others. Our text does not remove the liberty of approaching the Lord in heartfelt ways that may not have been specifically outlined in Scripture. When such routines, however, are taught to others, supposing that they will bring the person closer to the Lord, or make them more pious before Him, an unlawful thing has been done.

            Also, these are matters that are primarily external. They are not primarily matters of the heart, but of the body.

HUMILITY

             “ . . . and humility . . . ” Other versions read “false humility,” ^NKJV “self-abasement,” ^NASB and “making little of oneself.” ^BBE

            This is not true humility. It is not a humility that results from the awareness of Lord, the persuasion of faith, and the perception of God’s grace. While real humility is found on the inside, the humility of this verse starts on the outside, with the delusion that it can somehow work itself into the inside. The truth of the matter is that there is no outward procedure, however impressive, that can touch, strengthen, and encourage the heart. If humility is not a basic part of man’s nature, anything that appears humble on the outside is only feigned. It is not real before God.

NEGLECTING OF THE BODY

            “ . . . and neglecting of the body...” Other versions read, “severe treatment of the body,” ^NASB “harsh treatment of the body,” ^NIV “being cruel to the body,” ^BBE and “not sparing the body.” ^DOUAY

            This approach is practiced within monastic approaches to religion. The monks of old often flagellated, or beat, their bodies, thinking this would subdue its sinful inclinations. Others fasted for long periods of time, imagining that the harsh treatment of the body would lessen its desires, thus making the person more godly. Of course, no such teaching is found in the Word of God, although many have thought such things are suggested.

            This approach to living for the Lord is not what Paul was referring to when he said, “I buffet [“beat” ^NIV] my body and make it my slave, lest possibly, after I have preached to others, I myself should be disqualified [“a castaway” ^KJV]” ^NASB (1 Cor 9:27). The idea is that Paul made his body serve him, rather than him serving his body. That is the intent of the older translation “keep under my body.” While the word translated “keep under” etymologically means “strike beneath the eye, to give a black eye,” ^THAYER it’s use here denotes strict control, not outward punishment. It refers more to the mortification of the flesh, or “body of sin,” than to pounding on the body.

            Should an individual, because of acquaintance with his own devices, choose to deprive the body of things that tends to awakens sinful desires, that would not be wrong – in fact, for him it would be right. However, to pass that along to others as the way to be holy would be wrong. Further, to assume that such conduct makes the individual more holy would also be entirely out of order. At best they subdue the outbreak of sin.

   POWERLESS RELIGION

            “ ^23b . . . not in any honor to the satisfying of the flesh.” Other versions read, “but are of no value against the indulgence of the flesh,” ^NKJV “but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence,” ^NIV “but they are of no value in checking self-indulgence,” ^NRSV “but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh,” ^ESV “they are of no value against gratification of the flesh,” ^NAB and “But they have no effect when it comes to conquering a person's evil thoughts and desires.” ^NLT

NOT IN ANY HONOR

            The phrase “not in any honor” means ineffective, or not yielding any truly honorable results. We would say “not of any value.” That is, there is a Divinely appointed objective that cannot be met in this manner. This is not the way to achieve what must be done.

            This is another way of referring to religion without power. This is a religion that can be embraced by unregenerate people, who are not reconciled to God, and in whom the Holy Spirit does not reside. Paul said of this kind of religion, “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof,” or “They will act as if they are religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly” ^NLT (2 Tim 3:5).

            In our time, the church world has been inundated with ineffective religion. With more Christian “how-to” books than the world has ever seen, and more religious specialists than scarcely thought conceivable, churches have more self-help and recovery ministries than they have ever had before. There are more Christian educational institutes, more workshops and more experts in human relationships. Yet, it has not stemmed the tide of sin or the appetites of “sinful flesh.” Paul would say of the whole conglomeration of religious tips and procedures, “they are without honor!”

TO THE SATISFYING OF THE FLESH

            The Spirit does not leave us guessing as to WHY the rules-and- regulations approach to religion is ineffective. It cannot restrain the flesh, or subdue its inclinations. In fact, it has a way of making them all the worse. If God’s holy and just law could not subdue sin within, who is the fool who will imagine the laws of men can do so. Sin gains its strength from law. As it is written, “the strength of sin is the law” (1 Cor 15:56). Paul said of the Law, “But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead” (Rom 7:8). Again he said of the Law, “when the commandment came sin revived” (Rom 7:9).

            Here is the unvarnished truth of the matter: sin cannot be subdued by Law! It cannot be controlled by rules, ordinances, and regulations. If this was possible, the Law would not have been ended as a means to righteousness (Rom 10:4).

THE NECESSITY OF CHANGE

            Here is a matter that those who promote procedures have not acknowledged. First, a fundamental change must take place within man. Those who “have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Rom 3:23) cannot be made acceptable by a man-made rule or procedure. They must be born again (John 3:3-8). They must become a “new creation” (2 Cor 5:17).

            Second, in the power of the new creation, sin must be subdued. How frequently this is stated.

✙     “For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live” (Rom 8:13).

✙     “That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; and be renewed in the spirit of your mind” (Eph 4:22-23).

✙     “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice” (Eph 4:31)

✙     “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry” (Col 3:5).

✙     “But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth” (Col 3:8).

✙     “Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings” (1 Pet 2:1).

            Our text is saying that these requirements cannot be met by means of a man-made rule or procedure. There is no fleshly discipline than can satisfy these necessities. It makes no difference how wise it may appear, and what kind of justification is offered in support of it, it cannot do what God has demanded of you!

            The ordinances of men do not promote godliness. They do not make men holy. They do not resolve the problem of sin. They cannot crucify the flesh or mortify the deeds of the body. They cannot make you acceptable to God, or draw you closer to Christ. They cannot make sin distasteful or heaven attractive.

            If religious exercises do not help a person subdue sin, they have no value!

JESUS CAN

            After all is said and done, God has provided a redemption that can accomplish all of these things. This is because it is being administered by the Lord Jesus Christ, in whom all the fulness of the Godhead dwells bodily. Through Christ, all of the requirements of God can be fulfilled – and happily and satisfyingly so. The flesh can be subdued, the inner man can be strengthened, and the inheritance can be obtained. However, without Him, no matter how rigorous the procedures embraced, such things will not and cannot be realized.

            It is time for the Lord Jesus to be preached as all-sufficient – the One in whom we are “complete.” Nothing is lacking in Him. Everything we need is obtained from Him, and we are personally sustained by Him. Believe it!

  CONCLUSION

            The passage we have just reviewed confirms that anything originating from man, regardless of its seemingly wise appearance, can contribute nothing of eternal value to the child of God. While all manner of objections may be raised against this conclusion, and weighty defenses of human abilities be presented, the fact remains that those who have fallen cannot themselves present a suitable remedy for that fall. If men want to come to God, they must be brought by Jesus, for He is “the Way.” If any message is adopted whereby the mind is illuminated and the heart stabilized, it must come through Jesus Christ, who is “the Truth.” If anything is received that makes for response to God, the ability to hear Him, and grow up into Christ, it must be received from the hand of Jesus, who is “the Life.”

            God will not allow anything that does not come from Jesus to be instrumental causing us to be accepted by Him, or dwell forever in the house of the Lord. The “fulness of the Godhead” dwells in Christ, and in Christ alone. If we are going to receive of His fulness, we must receive it from Him. No procedure will do. There is no liturgy that can confer life. There is no life discipline of human origin that can make one better in the eyes of God – no rule or regulation conceived by man that can measure whether or not we are approved of God.

            At the point the heart is not involved, or the conscience is not aware of the eye of the Lord as well as the need for His grace, mere religious routine is being expressed. It is imperative that the people of God see this. Religious routine does not bring an awareness of the need for Christ, and where that awareness is not found, Jesus will not minister. In fact, as illustrated in Israel, the Lord is actually repulsed by heartless routine (Isa 1:11-15; Jer 6:20; Amos 5:21-23).

            Spiritual Babylon could not exist without lifeless routine. It is essential to the maintenance of its walls and the promulgation of its existence.

            Were the professed church to to suddenly tap into the Divine provisions that are in Christ Jesus, countless religious professionals would be put out of business. Whole professed ministries would come crashing down to the ground, for they depend upon the people being lifeless, helpless, and in a state of misery and need. If you can see it, a considerable percentage of modern Christian professions and ministries rely on the people being morally weak and spiritually ignorant.

            In such a framework, rules and regulations appear quite valuable. However where the life of the Spirit is evident they, at the very best, are a sort of beginning beyond which every soul must pass.

            It is time for the people of God to take a stand on the all-sufficiency of the Lord Jesus Christ, refusing to allow the wisdom of men to direct how they live. Salvation makes full provision for those who obtain it through faith. Nothing, absolutely nothing, is lacking in Christ.

Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ. Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you for the prize. Such a person goes into great detail about what he has seen, and his unspiritual mind puffs him up with idle notions. He has lost connection with the Head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow. Since you died with Christ to the basic principles of this world, why, as though you still belonged to it, do you submit to its rules: "Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!"? These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence. (Col 2:16-23, NIV)