Therefore do not let anyone judge you with respect to food or drink, or in the matter of a feast, new moon, or Sabbath days—these are only the shadow of the things to come, but the reality is Christ!
Into the Text
One of the dangers Paul addresses here is legalism. Legalism is thinking we can do good things in our own strength to impress God. Our “flesh” loves legalism because it loves to be independent of help and proud of its own accomplishments.
All the world religions have come up with their own regulations for self-improvement and moral behavior: Abstain from certain foods, pray long prayers, keep the “holy” days, go on pilgrimages, sacrifice, engage in public worship, and give money to the poor. It’s one of Satan’s oldest tricks to make people think that their outward morality pleases God.
Even as Christians, we need to be aware of the dangers of legalism. Paul is not talking about things God clearly forbids in the Bible. Rather, he is talking about man-made rules concerning food, drink, Sabbath laws, and other external regulations.
As a new believer, I read a book where the author claimed that a good Christian should give at least two hours a day to prayer and Bible reading. Being very eager, I tried to follow this advice. I felt very “holy” on the days I managed it and terrible when I failed. Thankfully, more mature Christians told me that the Bible does not give us rules about the length of our quiet time. What a relief! I have also come to understand that Bible reading and prayer are vital because I need time with God, not because it will impress Him.
The Christian life is not about sticking to the regulations or man-made rules in order to impress God and other people. It’s only the life of Jesus, His activity in and through us, that God will ultimately honor.
Prayer
Father, please forgive me for relying on my keeping of outward rules. Help me to cling to the reality and freedom of your Son, Jesus. Amen.