Colossians 2:22

Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?

Colossians 2:22 (KJV)

Context

The Apostle Paul wrote to the church in Colossae to address false teachings that threatened their faith. A central theme of the letter is the supremacy of Christ and the sufficiency of His work for salvation. In the preceding verses, Paul describes legalistic observances—rules, ascetic practices, and self-imposed disciplines—that some believers were following. Colossians 2:22 concludes this warning by exposing the temporary and powerless nature of such human regulations.

Meaning

The phrase “Which all are to perish with the using” refers to these human rules and restrictions. They are perishable, meaning they cannot provide lasting spiritual benefit or true transformation. The clause “after the commandments and doctrines of men” identifies their origin: teachings and traditions that come from human authority rather than divine revelation. Paul contrasts these man-made doctrines with the commandments of God, showing their inferiority to the eternal truth found in Christ.

Biblical connections

The immediate context (Colossians 2:20-23) contrasts dying with Christ to the rudiments of the world, showing that believers have been freed from such ordinances. This passage directly supports the point of Colossians 2:22 by demonstrating that these regulations belong to a worldly system from which Christians have been released. The perishable nature of these regulations underscores their inferiority to the eternal realities found in Christ.

Application

Colossians 2:22 calls each Christian to evaluate the sources of the teachings they follow. It warns against relying on human rules and traditions for spiritual nourishment, urging believers to embrace the supremacy of Christ and His teachings instead. While this passage warns against legalism and deceptive human wisdom, it does not dismiss the value of godly instruction, church leadership, or sound doctrine. Scripture itself provides the guidance essential for spiritual growth. The key is to reject any man-made regulations that contradict God’s Word and to prioritize the authority of Christ above all else.

Reflection

Human traditions cannot save or sanctify; only the work of Christ and the indwelling Spirit can produce true godliness. By placing their trust in Christ, believers keep their faith grounded in the enduring truth of God’s Word rather than in human inventions that are destined to fade away.