The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Colossians 2:8-10, “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ.

9 For in Him all the fulness of Deity dwells in bodily form,

10 and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority…”

To engage in an African safari generally carries with it the idea of capturing or killing an animal. It doesn’t have to mean that, but it often does. Words vary according to the cultures and the eras in which they are used. “Philosophy” in the verse above refers to the whole concept of Judaism. But the words “captive” and “empty deception” have the same meaning in each generation and culture. Some people simply delight in taking other people “captive” to their own way of thinking. It’s a pride thing. Men give their opinions on biblical and theological subjects in books that are sometimes revered more highly than the Scriptures themselves. We have to be extremely careful!

Paul is swift to shine a divine light on these “capture culprits.” We are not to follow philosophical traditionalisms. We are to follow Christ and His teachings. He alone is the One in whom the “fullness of Deity dwells.” Why are so many seeking the ways of popular celebrities? Why does it matter which Hollywood “star” or pop singer believes this or that? Even stopping to read and understand their thoughts on spiritual matters is truly a waste of precious time.

Christ Jesus is the “fullness of Deity.” There is no philosopher in any age who can compare with Him. He is the Author of salvation –our salvation! He has made us “complete.” He is the Head, the Authority over all things! All we need to know with clarity is what He says in His Word, and follow His instructions implicitly. His Word, the Scriptures, are without error. It is our responsibility to immerse ourselves in His Word and then share what we learn with others. Is this not what we expect of our pastors? Do they, then, not have the right to expect the same of us? And when a pastor says something we don’t understand, we should ask him to explain it to us. When we understand it, we can explain it to others. What’s more, Christ Himself will then be glorified through us. Remember, it’s always all about Him!

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

Springdale, Arkansas 72764

United States of America

“We never know that God is all we need

until He becomes all that we have.”