Spoiled by False Doctrine

Colossians 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

When one side defeats another in battle, to the victor goes the spoils. This means that the victor enters the camp of the defeated and takes its valuable possessions (including women, children, material goods, etc.). With this truth in mind, the apostle Paul warned the believers at Colosse to be on guard, knowing that men would seek to spoil them through philosophy and vain deceit. In other words, accepting the philosophies of men, or false doctrines, is likened to losing a battle and allowing the enemy to rob the believer of his most valuable possessions. It is important to understand that although a believer can never lose his salvation, he can be robbed of his stability, growth, peace, and joy.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

(For children):The churches of Galatia accepted sound doctrine on how to be saved. Then, false teachers told them they had to work to maintain their salvation, and they believed the lie. No one can work for salvation nor can they work to keep it (Galatians 3:1-3; Ephesians 2:8-9).

(For everyone):Do you know anyone who has been spoiled through philosophy or vain deceit? What did he or she lose when spoiled? What specific issue brought the damage?

(For everyone):What have you gained from learning sound doctrine? What are some things you might lose if spoiled by philosophy or vain deceit? What should you do to stand for the truth?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

Thank God for the sound doctrine He has given you.

Ask God to help you to be aware of the ongoing battle.

SONG

Holy Bible, Book Divine!

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