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In Colossians 2:6, Paul states, "As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him." This phrase "received Christ" should be understood not in a metaphysical sense, but in practical terms. This is similar to how Paul uses the term in other contexts. For instance, in Philippians 4:9, Paul says, "Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you." Here, "received" clearly refers to the practical application of teachings and instructions.
Similarly, in 1 Thessalonians 4:1, Paul urges, "Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more." Again, the emphasis is on the practical outworking of the teachings the Thessalonians have received.
In Acts 11:1, we read, "And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God." Here, receiving the word of God denotes accepting and applying the message of the gospel, rather than any mystical or metaphysical experience.
Therefore, in Colossians 2:6, Paul is emphasizing the practical reception of Christ that the Colossians had displayed. To "receive Christ" means to accept His teachings, to believe in His person and work. The opposite of receiving Christ, in this context, would be to reject that which has been shared about Christ.
Paul encourages the natural result of receiving Christ, which is to walk in Him. It's worth noting that the word "as" is used as an adverb. It implies that we should walk in Him in the same manner that we received Him, presumably with eagerness, joy, and anticipation. Therefore, this verse is not merely commanding us to walk in Him, but is advising us on "how" to do so. It assumes that we will walk in Him, and instructs us on the manner in which to do so.
It is an interesting point to note that Paul does not prescribe a specific way to "walk in Christ" but instead encourages believers to do so in the manner they received Him. This in itself is a testament to the inclusive and diverse nature of faith. People come to faith in different ways, and this is recognized and honored. Some may be overwhelmed and eager, immediately ready to dive into their new journey with Christ, while others may be more cautious, testing the waters before fully immersing themselves.
Paul's words suggest a recognition and validation of these individual approaches to faith. By stating "as ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him," he implies that God recognizes and honors our individual experiences and personalities. This is a liberating perspective, as it allows for personal approaches to faith, without enforcing a rigid or prescribed way of practicing it. Ultimately, it underscores the idea that the relationship with Christ is a personal one, shaped by individual characteristics, experiences, and the unique way each person has received Him.
In verse 7, Paul begins his admonition with a celebration of the maturity of the faith of the Colossians. This is quite remarkable, considering Paul has never been with them physically (v. 5). Yet, they are described as being "Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith." This speaks to the quality of teaching they have received.
Many scholars believe that Epaphras, mentioned in Col. 1:7-8 and 4:12-13, might have been their teacher or pastor. Epaphras, described as a "fellow prisoner" with Paul in Philemon 1:23, must have been an extraordinary teacher of Paul's doctrine. The faith of the Colossians stands as a testament to his skill and dedication.
The Colossians are said to have come to this strong position in Christ while "abounding in thanksgiving." This suggests a community of believers characterized by joy and gratitude. It must have been one of the most joyful and honorable churches in Paul's circle of influence.
After praising their faith in verse 7, Paul issues a stern warning: do not be swayed from your strong faith. Remarkably, Paul worries that those who are "Rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith" (v. 7) might abandon it all for "the rudiments of the world". If this is Paul's concern, then none of us are immune to deception, no matter how deeply rooted and built up we are. Paul fears that the "philosophy and vain deceit" following "the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world," could make them vulnerable to the enemy.
Paul's letter to the Colossians warns of three weapons that can potentially lead even the most steadfast believer astray. These potential pitfalls are: