Unlike archaeologists and other explorers who often have to search far and wide for their treasures, we know exactly where spiritual treasures can be found. God’s Word, like a treasure map, points us to the precise place where we will be able to find the treasures that God promised. Referring to the Christ, the apostle Paul wrote: “Carefully concealed in him are all the treasures of wisdom and of knowledge.” (Col. 2:3)
As we read those words, we might ask: ‘Why should we search for those treasures? How are they “concealed in” Christ? And how do we find them?’ To get the answers, let us take a closer look at the apostle’s words.
Paul wrote those words to his fellow Christians in Colossae. He told them that he was struggling in their behalf so that ‘their hearts might be comforted and they might be harmoniously joined together in love.’ (Read Colossians 2:1, 2.) Why such concern? Evidently, Paul was aware that the brothers there might have been influenced by some among them who were promoting certain Greek philosophies or were advocating a return to the observance of the Mosaic Law.
He strongly warned the brothers: “Look out: perhaps there may be someone who will carry you off as his prey through the philosophy and empty deception according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary things of the world and not according to Christ.”—Col. 2:8.
Today, we face similar influences from Satan and his wicked system. Worldly philosophy, including secular humanism and the theory of evolution, shapes people’s thinking, morals, goals, and lifestyle. False religion plays a major role in many popular holiday celebrations.
The entertainment industry panders to the debased tendencies of the fallen flesh, and much of the content of the Internet poses a real danger to young and old alike. Constant exposure to these and other worldly trends can easily affect our feelings and attitude toward the direction that Jehovah provides, causing us to relax our firm hold on the real life. (Read 1 Timothy 6:17-19.) Clearly, we need to grasp the meaning of Paul’s words to the Colossians and take his counsel to heart if we do not want to succumb to Satan’s cunning schemes.
Returning to Paul’s words to the Colossians, we note that after mentioning his concern, he went on to point out two things that would help them to be comforted and to be united in love. First, he mentioned “the full assurance of their understanding.” They had to be fully convinced that their understanding of the Scriptures was correct, so that their faith would be based on a sure foundation. (Heb. 11:1)
Then, he mentioned “an accurate knowledge of the sacred secret of God.” They needed to advance beyond a basic knowledge of the truth and have a clear understanding of the deeper things of God. (Heb. 5:13, 14) Sound counsel indeed for the Colossians and for us today! How, though, can we acquire such assurance and accurate knowledge? Paul provided the key in his profound statement about Jesus Christ: “Carefully concealed in him are all the treasures of wisdom and of knowledge.”
Why not check the Scriptures here?
BIBLE ON LINE
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