This verse’s criteria relate to Jewish practices, including adhering to food laws and observing the calendar.
Colossians 2:16 (ESV), “Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath.”
The word “therefore” is how Paul begins this new passage, signifying a logical connection between the preceding information and the upcoming statement. Paul elaborated on the subject in previous verses, emphasizing that our connection with God is established through Christ, rather than through external practices like circumcision. The salvation that we possess, which comes through Christ, is both comprehensive and absolute. According to Colossians 2:13–15, the removal of sin and the restoration of our relationship with God is not the only outcome, but it also serves to defeat the forces of evil that oppose us. The deceivers were spreading the message among the Colossian Christians that salvation could only be achieved by adhering to specific rituals, rules, and regulations. Paul, in the upcoming verse, will refer to these concepts as “a mere shadow of what is coming,” showing their insignificance compared to Christ Himself. However, Paul’s perspective differs as he states, “let no one pass judgment on you,” particularly with four specific areas.
First, Paul takes a moment to mention any dietary restrictions that need to be considered. In the Mosaic law, there were several dietary regulations that were observed, one of which was the prohibition of consuming pork, which was considered unclean by the Jewish community.
Second, Paul brings up the topic of holidays and feast days during his discussion. In Jewish culture, there were many specific celebrations that were referred to as “festivals,” including Passover and the Day of Atonement, which were governed by Jewish laws.
Third, it is important to understand that when we talk about a “new moon,” we are specifically referring to the religious ceremonies outlined in the Mosaic law, as stated in Numbers 29:6.
Fourth, Paul highlights the Sabbath day as the fourth topic of discussion. According to the teachings of Judaism, Saturday, which is considered the seventh day of the week, holds great religious significance. It is observed as a holy day, starting from sunset on Friday and ending at sunset on Saturday. During this period, adherents are prohibited from engaging in any form of work, as stated in Exodus 20:8–11. Paul, a prominent figure in early Christianity, also recognized the importance of observing this day. Just prior to this verse, it was clarified that Christ’s sacrifice was the means by which all sin and it’s accompanying punishment were eliminated. The consequence of this is that there are no actions we can undertake, nor any actions that need to be undertaken, in order to achieve righteousness in the eyes of God. In Romans chapter 14, Paul provided additional detail on this idea.
Colossians 2:16-19 (ESV), “Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind, and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.”
Paul refers to the Old Testament legal requirements, from verse 16, calling them “a shadow of the things to come.” The Greek word skia,” Christ is the actual substance. Paul’s intention in making this statement was not to criticize the Law, but rather to emphasize the supremacy of Jesus over the Mosaic law. The difference becomes apparent when we compare a book to the person who wrote it. The Author is essential for the existence of the Law. According to the book of Acts, Jesus is acknowledged as the author of life (Acts 3:15). In a remarkable feat, he managed to fulfill the Law without any trace of contradiction. Jesus taught, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them” (Matthew 5:17).
Shalom
Context for this post: https://www.bibleref.com
Views: 7