Freedom from Judgment in Christ

And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days. (Colossians 2:15-16)

The world is quick to judge, dishonor, and cancel those who do not think, believe, or speak like they do. In a simple but powerful statement, Paul told the Colossae church that legalistic judgments were not what God wanted.

Paul reminded believers that the Mosaic law no longer applied to those in Christ, but if people desired to follow them, they could. While the dietary laws, for example, could never save them, personal convictions about continuing to practice them should not be used to judge a believer in the New Testament.

Paul's statement acknowledged that Jesus conquered demonic forces in a powerful triumph! This public display of triumph was a demonstration of our freedom from sin, death, and the grave! Jesus’ victory has also liberated us from the burden of the Jewish religious laws and regulations. We are no longer bound by dietary rules or specific holy days. Instead, our focus shifts from sacrificial observances to a heart of obedience and devotion because of our relationship with Jesus.

As we grow into mature believers, we need to remember to extend mercy to one another. Some may hold fast to traditions, while others embrace new expressions of worship. What matters is that, in Christ, a common faith and a shared love for Jesus and God’s Word unite us.

Practical Application

When you don’t understand why a fellow Christian worships in a certain way, ask them. Have a respectful dialogue based on God’s Word. Don’t judge but rather seek understanding so you can pray for them to grow in revelation knowledge and wisdom.

Hebrews 9:10; John 16:11

Unity in Diversity

One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. (Romans 14:5)

At least once every year someone asks me about why we don’t worship on a Saturday, the Jewish Sabbath. The truth is that Jesus is the Sabbath rest, and today every day is the Lord’s Day. We simply have chosen as a household of faith to celebrate and worship the Lord corporately on a Sunday, as is tradition in our Western church culture. Does that mean it’s wrong to worship on a Saturday? No. Neither is it wrong to worship on a Thursday. Every day is the Lord’s Day!

Paul explained in Romans 14:5 that we are called to not put a special “holy” reference on one day over another. However, we should be fully persuaded as to why we worship the way we worship.

Being fully persuaded in your own mind means your faith is deeply rooted and led by the Holy Ghost. Some may have their corporate gatherings on certain days or observe feasts or celebrations, while others may not. What matters is the sincerity of our convictions in aligning with God’s Word and our commitment to honoring God in however we worship.

The heart of Paul’s message is a focus on the unity we should have as brothers and sisters in the Lord. We may differ in our interpretations of traditions, but our faith in Christ unites us.

Our diverse practices, perspectives, and traditions should not be a source of division. Instead, they should be an opportunity for us to learn to celebrate our differences and the variety God has put into this world. Rather than forcing our convictions on others, we should be known as people who celebrate our fellow believers. This freedom, however, should never be used as a license to sin or go against God’s Word. It is instead a freedom to worship Him in Spirit and in truth as different communities of faith all over the world.

Practical Application

Everyone doesn’t like the same worship songs as you. Some want to attend church on Saturday, others go on Sunday. Let’s focus on what’s important: worshipping God in Spirit and in truth, honoring His Word, and loving one another!

Hebrews 10:25; Acts 2:42

God is the Judge (Not You)

Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. (Romans 14:3-4)

In Romans 14:3-4, Paul encouraged the Roman believers to leave God’s responsibility to God and just do what God asked them to do! Namely, don’t judge others. God is the Divine Judge, not you.

We all have our own convictions when it comes to showing our faith and devotion to God. That means in certain ways, our faith journey is incredibly personal and we are all very unique. That’s a wonderful thing!

Paul’s main point was if God has received a person, what business is it of ours if they adhere to our personal convictions about every minor issue? We are all His children. We are all His sheep. Our connection with the Lord is not based on specific rituals or traditions, but on a genuine relationship with Him. We should obey Him because we love Him.

Instead of judging others, our responsibility as believers is to encourage one another to follow the direction and guidance of the Holy Spirit. He may lead another person differently than He leads you!

We can celebrate our differences and motivate each other to love and do good things by urging others to listen to the Holy Spirit.

Give the benefit of the doubt and encourage other believers toward taking steps in uncomfortable faith, following God’s Word and the Holy Spirit.

Practical Application

Who can you challenge and encourage today to hear and heed the voice of the Holy Spirit? Encourage them as they continue to hear His voice to follow what He gives them according to the truth of God’s Word.

1 Corinthians 14:4; Romans 8:31