Winning Wisdom: Doctrines of Men

Topic: Doctrines of Men [Tuesday, 3rd October, 2017]

Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances, (Touch not; taste not; handle not;  Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men? Colossians 2:20‭-‬22

Truth be told, it is wearisome to learn and do all the doctrines governing the Church and it’s different denominations today. I understand that the reason for the institution of these doctrines is to promote sanctity and morality amongst the brethren, and to preserve the view of the Church in the eyes of “outsiders”. But we get so carried away with the implementation and strict adherence to these rules that we actually lose sight of the true reason of us being Christians, and also in the process chase off those that the message of salvation is for, because of condemnation. This ought not be so.

We are told in our anchor scripture that since we were dead with Christ, we need no longer be governed by the rules placed by men, as they are “just another way of showing off”, as Message translation puts it. What should govern us is our love for God,  commitment to the brethren, and understanding of the things of God. No matter how good intentioned these doctrines made by the different denominations of the church are, if they are not enabling us to focus on God and His love, if they are not helping us to be dependent on God to live to God-life, if they are not helping us love our fellow brethren, irrespective of denomination, then it is faulty.

Most of these laws, which is also termed as church doctrines, have ended up being a divisive factor and have broken the bond of peace and the unity of the spirit among the various denominations. As some folks in a denomination see some other folks in another as unrighteous and unholy. This not ought to be. The laws or doctrines of men amount to nothing but moral standards, which, though may be good, should not shift our focus from Christ and His commandments, which is to love the Lord and love all that we are privileged to know, irrespective of the denomination or whether they are in Christ or not. This alone supersede every other law or doctrine that were propounded by men in the church.

Keep winning daily.

Wise Action:

Be properly guide by Love and the Word before adhering vehemently to doctrines of men you've been asked to do or not to do, so that your gaze does not shift from your first Love.

By Esun Tekeme