What does Colossians 2:20 mean?

Explanation

The apostle Paul writes this verse to the Colossian Christians as a call to recognize the implications of their unity with Christ, particularly in His death.

The "rudiments of the world" refers to basic principles or elemental spirits of the world, which, in this context, could be understood as the legalistic practices and religious traditions that were not part of the Christian faith but were rather rooted in human traditions or possibly spiritual forces considered by the surrounding culture to have influence over their lives.

Paul is urging the Colossians to remember that since they have died with Christ, they should no longer feel compelled to submit themselves to these external religious regulations which have no value in their new life in Christ.

Historical Context

During the time Paul wrote this letter, the early church in Colossae was facing various challenges, including philosophical influences from Gnosticism and Jewish legalism.

These influences advocated for adherence to certain ascetic practices, dietary laws, and observance of special days as necessary components of spirituality and piety.

Paul's letter rebukes these philosophies and asserts that true faith is rooted in Christ alone, not in observance of such practices that have no spiritual efficacy and are mere human inventions.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse touches upon doctrines of sanctification and Christian liberty. Sanctification is the process by which Christians become more like Christ. Through His death, believers are said to die to the world, symbolizing a break from their former way of life.

The concept of Christian liberty speaks to the idea that faith in Christ frees believers from the yoke of legalistic observances and sets them free to live by the Spirit.

However, this should not be taken as license for moral laxity, but rather as freedom to serve God unencumbered by extraneous religious demands.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Colossians 2:20 challenges believers to evaluate their spiritual lives and discard practices rooted in tradition or culture that do not align with the core of the Christian message.

It prompts a focus on personal relationship with Christ and adherence to the teachings of the gospel, rather than ritual and regulations.

This can provide freedom from a sense of religious obligation to 'earn' God's favor through works, instead depending on His grace.

Cross-References

• Galatians 2:19: “For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.”
• Romans 6:4: “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
• Galatians 4:3: “Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:”
• Galatians 5:1: “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.”

Language Study

The term "rudiments" in the original Greek is "stoicheia," which can mean "elementary principles" or "elemental spirits." It's a term often used to describe the basic, elemental aspects of a philosophical or religious system.

The phrase "dead with Christ" is a key concept in Pauline theology, indicating a metaphorical death to the old way of life, symbolizing a relinquishing of the power of sin and worldly principles over the believer.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the Greco-Roman world, there were many mystery religions that incorporated rituals and strict codes of conduct to achieve a special level of spirituality.

Paul's teachings in Colossians contrast with these religions by focusing on faith in Christ rather than adherence to complex rituals and practices.

Comparatively, many ancient religions had strict rules that were thought to please the gods or gain favor.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the verse does not directly intersect with scientific discoveries or theories.

However, it does address a psychological and social behavior pattern where humans may adhere to rituals and customs believing they hold intrinsic value or power in themselves.

Modern psychology recognizes that such practices can sometimes play a role in social cohesion or personal psychological comfort but do not necessarily reflect objective reality about the world or human nature.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars interpret Colossians 2:20 as Paul's critique of religious legalism.

John Gill's Exposition of the Bible suggests that believers in Christ should not be subject to the ceremonies of the Mosaic law or human ordinances presented as necessary for salvation.

Matthew Henry’s Commentary adds that believers should avoid superstitions and self-imposed rituals that do not derive from the Gospel.

Contemporary commentaries echo the understanding that Paul’s words emphasize the sufficiency of Christ's work on the cross and caution against the dangers of adding to the simple message of faith for salvation.