As we work our way through some of the Epistles this year, we see the sacred writers dealing with issues that arise in the churches. In Galatians, it was those who wanted to make salvation dependent upon keeping certain laws. The Letter to the Colossians provides our texts for today and the next three Sundays. In this letter the issue is what he calls “hollow and deceptive philosophy” that combines some of the laws of Judaism with a sort of “spirituality” that supposedly connected with the spiritual powers of the universe.
The self-appointed rules and observances offered a feeling of special holiness while the supposed insights and even visions encouraged a feeling of possessing the keys to a special knowledge not known to others. But it was hollow and deceptive. Any holiness we might feel falls far short of the holiness that Christ gives, and any spiritual powers are nothing compared to the Creator who has redeemed us and made us his own.
Yet today also many are attracted by the pop spirituality and grow indifferent to the real treasure that we have in Christ. Because of a “consumer mentality” toward faith, many view religion like a popular song, something they go to for the feelings that it gives until something else comes along, and helpful for coping with the troubles of life.
But as Paul points out in his letter to the Colossians, we shouldn’t settle for so little, because God doesn’t just have some cool things to say to help us cope, “…He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves…” (Col 1:13). God Himself speaks to us through His word and gives us His own comfort of forgiveness and salvation. In speaking His law and gospel to others, we are already ruling with Him in His kingdom of light that lasts forever. When we think about it, who would want to give that up for just a little pop spirituality?