Colossians Introduction • Devotion #1: Laugh!
Dr. Randy T. Johnson
“And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.” Colossians 1:9-10
I have heard of and was raised with a number of rules in church. There can be certain dress codes (which include no hats for the guys). Hair had to be a certain way. Tattoos were a no-no. Music (especially drums) had made its way into some church doctrinal statements. However, I recently read an article that had possibly the worst one yet – no laughing in church. It appears to some, laughing shows disrespect to God. Is anyone with me wondering about the joy of the Lord?
As we start our study on the book of Colossians, I wanted to point out one of the purposes of the letter. Paul wanted to show the superiority of Christ over all human philosophies and traditions.
Norman Geisler wrote that Paul “sought to show the deity and supremacy of Christ in the face of the Colossian heresy (1:18; 2:9).” It is believed that heresy includes legalism. In his commentary writing, Peter O’Brien observed the same thing, “The young converts were under external pressure to conform to the beliefs and practices of their Jewish and pagan neighbors.” Warren Wiersbe agrees saying, “What was the heresy that threatened the peace and purity of the Colossian church? It was a combination of Eastern philosophy and Jewish legalism, with elements of what Bible scholars call Gnosticism.”
Legalism is dangerous. It makes man the judge. Pause and think about that. It adds to Scripture, which is very scary. It focuses on man instead of Christ and works instead of the grace of God. Commentator Thomas Schreiner wrote, “Legalism exists when people attempt to secure righteousness in God’s sight by good works. Legalists believe that they can earn or merit God’s approval by performing the requirements of the law.”
I started with Colossians 1:9-10 because of the phrase “walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him.” Our actions should not distract others from coming to the Lord, but at the same time, others should not judge based on outward appearance. This coming Sunday (and every day), focus on pleasing the Lord, and feel free to laugh.