See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. ~ Colossians 2:8 (ESV)
Followers of Christ are warned to not be taken captive by philosophies and various deceptive falsehoods that would lead us away from the truth of Christ and the gospel. From indoctrination in our universities to ideologies and ideologies pumped through media, there is no shortage of teachings that would lead us away from the truth of Jesus Christ and His teachings.
We are told the problems are racism, corruption, certain people groups, poverty, etc. We are further told the saviors are government, unity/conformity, violence, etc. However, the former are each symptoms of a greater problem, and the supposed “saviors” only create deeper problems.
The real problem is sin within us, and each of us are contaminated with it. Sin manifests itself in various ways: pride, hatred, greed, selfishness, slander, violence, lying, etc. There is only one Savior who can help us, and this is Jesus Christ. It is He who died for the sins of the world, and who gives to all who believe in Him in truth His Spirit that we might truly walk in truth, love, and peace.
Do not let the world’s empty philosophies distract you from the truth.
