Standing In Freedom
Scripture: “Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath… Let no one disqualify you.” – Colossians 2.16, 18 (ESV)
Main Point: When you understand your complete acceptance in Christ, no one can make you feel like a second-class Christian.
Paul’s liberating declaration rings across the centuries: “Let no one disqualify you.” The Greek word suggests someone trying to declare you the loser in a race you’ve already won. But your victory isn’t based on your performance—it’s based on Christ’s perfect performance credited to your account.
Every generation of Christians faces pressure to add something to the simple gospel. In Paul’s day, it was dietary laws and religious festivals. Today it might be political positions, cultural preferences, spiritual experiences, or moral achievements. The message is always the same: “Jesus is good, but He’s not enough. You need Jesus plus…”
But Paul’s answer is uncompromising: Christ plus nothing equals everything. You don’t need Christ plus perfect theology, Christ plus mystical experiences, Christ plus social activism, Christ plus moral superiority. Christ alone is sufficient for your complete acceptance before God.
This doesn’t mean we reject all spiritual disciplines, ignore wise counsel, or become indifferent to growth. It means we engage in these things from a position of acceptance, not to gain acceptance. We pursue holiness because we’re already holy, not to become holy.
When someone suggests your faith isn’t sophisticated enough, remember who you are in Christ. When others imply you’re missing some essential spiritual component, remember what you already have in Him. When guilt tries to convince you that you’ve forfeited your standing with God, remember that your security rests not on your faithfulness but on His.
Reflection: Where do you feel pressure to “add” to the simple gospel? How can you stand more confidently in Christ’s complete work?
Prayer: Faithful God, thank You that no one can disqualify me from Your love and acceptance. When others question my spiritual standing, remind me that my security rests in Christ alone. Help me live in the freedom You’ve given me without arrogance or fear. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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