VERSE:
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.
— Colossians 2:8

THOUGHT:
I love how exclusive and politically incorrect this verse is. It flies right in the face of everything our culture tells us to believe. Paul is basically saying that ever other ideology, philosophy or religion in the world is hollow and deceptive because it is an alternative to the truth that is in Christ alone. However, Paul is also warning the church not to be carried away by these philosophies. The temptation to allow other ways of thinking into the church was just as real then as it is now. Sadly, this has happened in today’s church for many reasons including: weakness of faith, biblical ignorance, fear of man, refusal to repent, lack of church discipline, or all of the above.

APPLICATION:
Take this verse as a solemn warning about the temptation to allow your culture’s way of thinking to infiltrate your faith. See to it that no one takes you captive by society’s philosophies. Measure everything by Word of God. Conform your life to the standard of God’s word, don’t conform God’s word to the standard of your life.

PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, help me discern between what my culture says and what you say. Help me be distinct from society in the areas your word tells me to. Help me see to it that no one takes me captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, in Jesus’ Name I pray, AMEN!