NOTE: In Colossians 2, Paul expressed his desire for the Colossians to be rooted and built up in Christ, so that they would not be deceived by the heresies. Paul pointed out that Gnosticism (deceptive philosophy [v.8] that uplifted knowledge and slighted the deity of Christ) is wrong, for deity is in Christ (2:8-10); Legalism (uplifts religious rules and regulations) is wrong, for reality is in Christ (2:11-17); Mysticism (uplifts immediate experience with the spiritual world, apart from the Word of God or the Holy Spirit) is wrong, for headship is in Christ (2:18-19); and Asceticism (uplift self-denial and even self-mortification) is wrong, for immunity is in Christ (2:20-23).*

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1. Rooted and Built up in Christ: In what practical ways that you could be rooted and built up in Christ? Besides your daily devotion, read a spiritual book or register on an online course offered by an evangelical seminary or organization (e.g. https://courses.dts.edu/) to deepen your understanding of the Bible.

2. Beware of Heresies: Paul warned the Colossians to beware of deceptive philosophy (Gnosticism—v.8), observation of Old Testament laws (Legalism—vv.11, 16), angel worship (Mysticism—v.18), and abstinence through harsh treatment of the body (Asceticism—vv.21, 23). Have you encountered any heresies or false teachings? Pick a couple of them and do a quick research on their errors and on how the Bible addresses those issues.

3. Your own insight: (fill in yourself) 

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Meditation and Application:

Meditate on the above questions along with the necessary actions. Evaluate your spiritual growth for the past year and draft a plan to deepen your knowledge and understanding of the Bible.

 

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*The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures by Dallas Seminary Faculty; and Bible Exposition Commentary (BE Series) – New Testament, Volume 2.