The Scripture
“Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elements of the world, rather than Christ. For the entire fullness of God’s nature dwells bodily in Christ, and you have been filled by him, who is the head over every ruler and authority.” (Col 2:8-10)
Have You Been Kidnaped
The verse above tells us that the Church at Colossae was taken captive. They were taken captive by wisdom, tradition, and the world rather than Christ. However, captive does not explain the situation well enough. The word actually means to be kidnaped by force. This church was on Paul’s heart. It was on his heart because the focus was on earthly traditions and teachings. He was hearing about those he loved being taken away from Christ. Paul’s concern was that they were focusing on everything around them more than they were Christ. Paul had to address this captivation by pointing them to Jesus.
The Theological Solution
The solution to avoid being captivated by the world is to focus on Paul’s claim that all of God is in Christ. You may not believe that Jesus is God. Maybe you believe that he never made that claim. However, he not only claimed to be God but when he did, it was done publicly (John 8:58). Therefore, if you want to keep from being kidnapped spiritually and mentally, focus on Christ. Become amazed that all of God dwells in Jesus. Be captivated by Christ choosing to die for your sins. Then you will be able to quote John when he said “I can’t help but tell what I have seen and heard.” (1 John 1:1-4)
The Application
Where is your focus? Is it on politics. Are you more concerned with the election than you are the Gospel being shared with your neighbor? Have you bought into teachings that God will give you whatever you want just because you ask for it in prayer?
I challenge you today to examine your heart for anything that has captivated you more than Christ. Once you find it compare it to Christ. Ask yourself if that is more important than Jesus.
Be captivated by Christ love and passion for you. The world needs to see believers who love Jesus above all else. The world needs to see Christians captivated by God.
