Colossians: Day 9

Verses 2:16-19
Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ. Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you. Such a person also goes into great detail about what they have seen; they are puffed up with idle notions by their unspiritual mind. They have lost connection with the head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow.

Questions:
1. What does Paul mean when he says, “These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ?” How does this differ from other religions?

Interpretation:
Christians are no longer expected to observe Old Testament dietary laws, festivals, or holidays - for what these things foreshadowed have been fulfilled in Christ. Now we celebrate to look back to Christ and the work He has completed. Christ was casting the shadow, not the rituals - this is why we have a relationship with Christ, not a ritualistic religion. Do not get cheated out of temporal blessings or eternal rewards because you fell into the trap of false teachings. Be on guard against somebody who says you must adhere to Old Testament laws or new age philosophy. Maintain connection with head, remember the head (Jesus) leads and sustains us.