50 - Bible Commentary | Karuna Sadan

For I want you to know what a great conflict[a] I have for you and those in Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh (Colossians 2:1)

Not all feelings are bad. The positive emotions that God gives need to be expressed.

in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (Colossians 2:3)

The "whom" that is referred to here is Christ.

Like hidden treasure waiting to be discovered—heaven’s wisdom and endless riches of revelation knowledge are in Christ. We can draw on these resources as we abide in Christ.

Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.

Beware lest anyone cheat you (Colossians 2:8)

The word "beware" means "to be on guard (against); be cautious (of)"

1.through philosophy and empty deceit

The word “philosophy” literally means “love of wisdom.” It is a good thing to love wisdom. The problem comes when we love wisdom from the wrong source.

Wisdom from God recognizes the awesome nature of God. (Job 28:20-28)

Earthly wisdom is often “empty deceit.” “vain” meaningless, worthless

2.According to the tradition of men (Colossians 2:8)

3.According to the basic principles of the world (Colossians 2:8)

Looking at what the world seems to offer. Trying to explain the origins of the universe by what can be seen is like trying to write a biography of Alexander Graham Bell by looking at a telephone. What is the problem? Telephones are different than when first created.

4.And not according to Christ (Colossians 2:8)

Looking anywhere that does not look to Christ will cheat us of what God has for us.

Chapter 2