At my church, we have a vibrant seniors ministry called The Jazzy Ladies and Gents. These men and women have a wonderful time together. But recently, leaders in that ministry have become concerned about seniors being swindled out of their hard-earned money through deceptive practices. They began offering information sessions to help them recognize the lies of deceivers.

Deceptive teachers were attempting to infiltrate the church in Colossae. Paul writes of his concern: “I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally” (v. 1). He states why he is fighting for them: “I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments” (v. 4). This deception refers to false teachers who were attempting to influence this group of believers with persuasive speech. Certainly, the best of us can fall victim to such acts of deception.

Paul wanted them (and us) to have a clear understanding of the “mystery of God, namely, Christ” (v. 2). The good news in this passage is that we are able to stand firm through a clear understanding of this “mystery.” The Moody Bible Commentary states, “The mystery is further explained this way: Christ takes up residence in believers (in you, v. 27), even among Gentiles, those previously excluded from the people of God (Eph. 2:11–13).” Like a tree that does not bend with the wind, understanding who we are in Christ and having deep roots in God’s truth as written in His Word will prevent us from the crafty arguments of deceivers. “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness” (vv. 4–5).

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