Rooted in Faith (Colossians 2:6-7)

 


Read Colossians 1 - 2:7

Paul wrote the letter to the Colossians to refute heresy in the area. Some were saying that Christ's work was not enough to obtain salvation. They were saying that believers have to follow a strict list of ceremonies, abstinence from foods, and several traditions in order to be saved. Paul refutes this by exalting Christ as the image of God (Col. 1:15), through whom all things were created (Col. 1:16), as the head of the church, first born from the dead (Col. 1:18). Paul wants them to know that Christ is completely adequate as the only source of our salvation. In our text, Paul is telling them that they received Christ and ought to live that way, "rooted and built-up in Him." How does one live in Christ? Paul is telling them to walk daily as Christians saved by grace through faith, not relying on traditions or "hollow and deceptive philosophy" (Col. 2:8).  We need to live as we are, dependent wholy on Christ Jesus. 
Paul compares them to a plant. The seeds were planted, roots have taken hold, the plant is growing and needs to continue to do so. How? Being "rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught and overflowing with thankfulness" (Col 2:7). So live as one dependent on Christ, seek Him faithfully, do not rely on the world or its traditions, or be turned by heresy. Instead, live in thankfulness for Christ and all that he has done, continuing to grow in faith.


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