Colossians 2:22

Which all are to perish with the vsing) after the commandements and doctrines of men: Colossians 2:22 (KJV)

The Apostle Paul wrote the letter to the church in Colossae to address several issues confronting the believers there. A central theme of the book is the supremacy of Christ and the sufficiency of His work for salvation. Understanding the background helps us grasp the weight of the warning in Colossians 2:22.

“Which all are to perish with the using” refers to human regulations and restrictions that the Colossians were practicing. The preceding verses (Colossians 2:20‑21) describe legalistic observances—rules, ascetic practices, and self‑imposed disciplines—that may appear wise or spiritually significant. Paul stresses that such regulations, though they seem beneficial, are perishable and lack the power to bring true spiritual growth or salvation.

The clause “after the commandments and doctrines of men” points to teachings and traditions that originate from human authority rather than divine revelation. These are man‑made rules, rituals, and philosophies that are sometimes elevated to the same or higher status than God’s commandments. Paul contrasts these human doctrines with the commandments of God, highlighting the superiority and sufficiency of Christ’s teaching.

Overall, the verse serves as a clear caution against relying on human rules and traditions for spiritual nourishment. Believers are urged to embrace the supremacy of Christ and His teachings instead of being bound by man‑made pretensions. In a broader context, Colossians 2:22 calls each Christian to evaluate the sources of the teachings they follow, ensuring that faith is firmly rooted in the Word of God rather than swayed by human philosophies or traditions.

While warning against legalism and deceptive human wisdom, the passage 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. By doing so, believers place their trust in Christ, prioritize His teachings exclusively, and keep their faith grounded in the enduring truth of God’s Word.