Don’t Be Taken in by Deceptive Philosophy
Only in Christ can you experience fullness of life
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. (Colossians 2:8 NIV)
There are many ‘isms’ and false gospels in the world today, and their voices are loud, calling out to you to follow them.
- Scientism, naturalism, and atheism claim that this physical world is all there is. There is no God. And it is up to us to make the most of life.
- The world’s religions each claim to have the truth that we should live by. And if we follow them, we will live more meaningful lives.
- Even within the umbrella of Christianity, there many who preach a gospel that is contrary to what the Scripture teaches. Gospels that appeal to our human desires and wisdom.
But, Paul says, these philosophies are hollow and deceptive. They have no real substance. And they deceive those who follow them. They are based solely on human wisdom and the deception of our spiritual adversaries. They claim to have the truth. And indeed, they do often have some truth. But the real truth is found only in Christ Jesus and in the riches of God’s grace.
Don’t be taken captive by today’s hollow and deceptive philosophies. They will only lead you away from Jesus: the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Trust instead in Christ, who alone can give true meaning and purpose to your life.
For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. (Colossians 2:9–10a)
