Colossians 2:20-23 English Standard Version

20 If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— 21 “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” 22 (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? 23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.

Paul is addressing the issues of the day. Human precepts and teachings have advanced since those times but the principle of value still remains. We are often told to value things that do not lead us to what is important to God.

Philippians 3:10 that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,

2 Peter 3:18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

What value is there in precepts and regulations that make us just another version of the old man and does not make us more Christlike?

1 Corinthians 6:2 Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is to be judged by you, are you incompetent to try trivial cases?

What is trivial in any argument? 

Two brothers at Sunday lunch are arguing the meaning of the mark of Cain. Genesis 4:15

Then the Lord said to him, “Not so! If anyone kills Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold.” And the Lord put a mark on Cain, lest any who found him should attack him.

Does the answer to that mystery lead them any closer to knowing Christ? No, it has no value in what God intends for mankind.

All things are not worthy of doctrine and yet man will try desperately to control the thoughts and practices of others in pursuit of being elevated to a position that was not appointed to them by God.

Matthew 24:24 For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.

Do not be led astray.

Psalm 143:10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!

Some years ago a friend came to me with a problem. An aunt was in poor health and asked her to move in with her and be her caretaker. She wanted to know what she should do.

My answer, “Do this and God will bless you.”

Then she rebuked me, “Why do I even ask you. You’re just telling me what God has said.”

She decided not to take care of her aunt. She missed the blessing.

Why would God ask us to do something that He knows we will not do?

It is to show us our heart isn’t right with God. That is a lesson and should teach us something about our dedication to serve God.

Matthew 25:42-45 English Standard Version

42 For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ 44 Then they also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?’ 45 Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’

Service is service and is not found only in the high service titles.

1 Corinthians 12:29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles?

Some of us are only called to hold the door open. Service is service. Do not think of yourselves as less because your service doesn’t have a title.

Luke 7:28 I tell you, among those born of women none is greater than John. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.

If that does not make sense to you then perhaps He has not taught you yet. God is faithful to His Word, hang in there.