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how does paul's concern about 'traditions' here compare with jesus's words about pharisaic traditions?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Colossians 2:8

Be careful that you don’t let anyone rob you through his philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.

The apostle Paul wrote this letter to the believers in Colossae, likely from prison, around 60-62 AD. He was addressing various challenges to their faith, including philosophical speculations and legalistic practices that threatened to undermine the sufficiency of Christ.

What are the 'traditions of men' in your life that might be distracting from what you believe to be most central?

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Read alongside it

  • Mark 7:8

    Jesus critiques religious leaders for prioritizing human traditions over God's commands.

  • Galatians 1:14

    Paul speaks of his zealous adherence to ancestral traditions before his conversion.

  • 2 Thessalonians 2:15

    Paul commends holding fast to traditions (teachings) passed down from apostles.

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