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. Colossians 2:8
For thousands of years, there have been many people who have come up with many different philosophies on what life is and what it means. Every type of belief on how mankind came to be and what the purpose of mankind is exists. Some are widely known and accepted, while others are barely known at all. Consistently, people want to know where they come from and what their purpose in life is.
Paul warns the Colossians about people trying to cheat them out of life with vain and empty philosophy set according to the traditions and principles of the world, not based upon Christ and His word.
Even though nearly two thousand years have passed since Paul wrote this letter, people have not changed. College professors abound in all colleges teaching philosophies that go against God’s word and His truth. Public schools constantly push to keep God completely out of the schools and the lives of the children.
While some philosophies are so far out that most people do not accept them, there are many that look good on the surface. Pushing the words of love and acceptance, the world demands a philosophy of accepting all sin as good, while rejecting God’s punishment of eternal condemnation for sin.
Individuals and churches have been deceived by cleverly orchestrated words to lead people into actions against God’s word. Unless a believer is grounded in God’s word, one will not know the false lies of deceit being portrayed by false believers and the world.
Instead of being deceived, believers need to be grounded in God’s word and led by the Holy Spirit. They need to be aware that the world is trying to trip them up in deceit.
As you look around, you will be able to easily hear and see the many different philosophies on what is right and wrong. Many of these may look and sound good on the surface but are tactics of the enemy to get you to turn from God’s commands. Study His word and be led by the Holy Spirit in what God has to say. Seek to have God open your eyes to seeing the deception that the world is fighting to lead you in.
Today I pray that you will know Jesus as your Lord and Savior; that God will open your eyes to false lies of the world; that God will reveal false beliefs you may already have in your own life; and that you will live according to God’s word in every area of your life.
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This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Insights from Tom
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