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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Colossians 2:8 See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, which are based on human tradition and the spiritual forces of the world rather than on Christ.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/colossians/2-8.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/1/51_Col_02_08.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Colossians 2:8 - Alive in Christ" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, which are based on 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class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/colossians/2.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/colossians/2.htm">New International Version</a> See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. <a href="/nlt/colossians/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ. <a href="/esv/colossians/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. <a href="/bsb/colossians/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, which are based on human tradition and the spiritual forces of the world rather than on Christ. <a href="/blb/colossians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Take heed lest there will be anyone taking you captive through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the principles of the world and not according to Christ. <a href="/kjv/colossians/2.htm">King James Bible</a> Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. <a href="/nkjv/colossians/2.htm">New King James Version</a> Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ. <a href="/nasb_/colossians/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> See to it that there is no one who takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception in accordance with human tradition, in accordance with the elementary principles of the world, rather than in accordance with Christ. <a href="/nasb/colossians/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> 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. <a href="/nasb77/colossians/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> 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. <a href="/lsb/colossians/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> 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, and not according to Christ. <a href="/amp/colossians/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception [pseudo-intellectual babble], according to the tradition [and musings] of mere men, following the elementary principles of this world, rather than following [the truth—the teachings of] Christ. <a href="/csb/colossians/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elements of the world, rather than Christ. <a href="/hcsb/colossians/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elemental forces of the world, and not based on Christ. <a href="/asv/colossians/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> Take heed lest there shall be any one that maketh spoil of you through his philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ: <a href="/cev/colossians/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Don't let anyone fool you by using senseless arguments. These arguments may sound wise, but they are only human teachings. They come from the powers of this world and not from Christ. <a href="/erv/colossians/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> Take heed lest there shall be any one that maketh spoil of you through his philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ: <a href="/gwt/colossians/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Be careful not to let anyone rob you [of this faith] through a shallow and misleading philosophy. Such a person follows human traditions and the world's way of doing things rather than following Christ. <a href="/gnt/colossians/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> See to it, then, that no one enslaves you by means of the worthless deceit of human wisdom, which comes from the teachings handed down by human beings and from the ruling spirits of the universe, and not from Christ. <a href="/isv/colossians/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> See to it that no one enslaves you through philosophy and empty deceit according to human tradition, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to the Messiah, <a href="/msb/colossians/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, which are based on human tradition and the spiritual forces of the world rather than on Christ. <a href="/net/colossians/2.htm">NET Bible</a> Be careful not to allow anyone to captivate you through an empty, deceitful philosophy that is according to human traditions and the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. <a href="/nheb/colossians/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Be careful not to allow anyone to captivate you through an empty and deceptive philosophy, according to human tradition, according to the elementary principles of the world, and not according to Christ. <a href="/wbt/colossians/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Beware lest any man make a prey of you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. <a href="/wey/colossians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Take care lest there be some one who leads you away as prisoners by means of his philosophy and idle fancies, following human traditions and the world's crude notions instead of following Christ. <a href="/web/colossians/2.htm">World English Bible</a> Be careful that you don’t let anyone rob you through his philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the elemental spirits of the world, and not after Christ. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/colossians/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> See that no one will be carrying you away as spoil through philosophy and vain deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the rudiments of the world, and not according to Christ, <a href="/blb/colossians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Take heed lest there will be anyone taking you captive through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the principles of the world and not according to Christ. <a href="/ylt/colossians/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> See that no one shall be carrying you away as spoil through the philosophy and vain deceit, according to the deliverance of men, according to the rudiments of the world, and not according to Christ, <a href="/slt/colossians/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> See ye lest any be carrying you off by philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the elements of the world, and not according to Christ.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/colossians/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Beware lest any man cheat you by philosophy, and vain deceit; according to the tradition of men, according to the elements of the world, and not according to Christ: <a href="/cpdv/colossians/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> See to it that no one deceives you through philosophy and empty falsehoods, as found in the traditions of men, in accord with the influences of the world, and not in accord with Christ. <a href="/nabre/colossians/2.htm">New American Bible</a> See to it that no one captivate you with an empty, seductive philosophy according to human tradition, according to the elemental powers of the world and not according to Christ. <a href="/nrsvce/colossians/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the universe, and not according to Christ.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/colossians/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Beware lest any man mislead you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the teaching of men, after the principles of the world, and not after Christ. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/colossians/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Beware lest any man rob you by philosophy, or by empty deception, according to the teaching of men and according to the principles of the world and not according to The Messiah,<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/colossians/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> See that no one make you the victims of imposture by means of philosophy and vain deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the rudiments of the world, and not according to Christ: <a href="/godbey/colossians/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> See that no one shall be deceiving you through philosophy and empty delusion, according to the tradition of men, according to the elements of the world, and not according to Christ, <a href="/haweis/colossians/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Beware that no man make a prey of you by means of philosophy and vain delusion, after the tradition of men, after the principles of the world, and not after Christ: <a href="/mace/colossians/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a> beware lest any one seduce you by the vain illusions of philosophy, founded upon human traditions, and meer shadows, and not upon Christ: <a href="/wey/colossians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Take care lest there be some one who leads you away as prisoners by means of his philosophy and idle fancies, following human traditions and the world's crude notions instead of following Christ. <a href="/worrell/colossians/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> Beware, lest there should be any one who makes a spoil of you through his philosophy and vain deceits, according to the tradition of men, according to the rudiments of the world, and not according to Christ; <a href="/worsley/colossians/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> Take heed least any one make a prey of you by philosophy and vain deceit, according to the tradition of men, after the elements of the world, and not after Christ: <a href="/parallel/colossians/2-8.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7q-K-qsfihQ?start=340" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/colossians/2.htm">Alive in Christ</a> …7rooted and built up in Him, established in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. 8<a href="/greek/991.htm" title="991: Blepete (V-PMA-2P) -- (primarily physical), I look, see, perceive, discern. A primary verb; to look at.">See to it</a> <a href="/greek/3361.htm" title="3361: mē (Adv) -- Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether.">that no one</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estai (V-FIM-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist."></a> <a href="/greek/5100.htm" title="5100: tis (IPro-NMS) -- Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4812.htm" title="4812: sylagōgōn (V-PPA-NMS) -- To plunder, lead captive; met: I make victim by fraud. From the base of sulao and ago; to lead away as booty, i.e. seduce.">takes you captive</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymas (PPro-A2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou."></a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: dia (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.">through</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/5385.htm" title="5385: philosophias (N-GFS) -- From philosophos; philosophy, i.e., Jewish sophistry.">philosophy</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/2756.htm" title="2756: kenēs (Adj-GFS) -- Apparently a primary word; empty.">empty</a> <a href="/greek/539.htm" title="539: apatēs (N-GFS) -- Deceit, deception, deceitfulness, delusion. From apatao; delusion.">deception,</a> <a href="/greek/2596.htm" title="2596: kata (Prep) -- A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).">which are based on</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/444.htm" title="444: anthrōpōn (N-GMP) -- A man, one of the human race. From aner and ops; man-faced, i.e. A human being.">human</a> <a href="/greek/3862.htm" title="3862: paradosin (N-AFS) -- An instruction, tradition. From paradidomi; transmission, i.e. a precept; specially, the Jewish traditionary law.">tradition</a> <a href="/greek/2596.htm" title="2596: kata (Prep) -- A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).">and</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ta (Art-ANP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/4747.htm" title="4747: stoicheia (N-ANP) -- Neuter of a presumed derivative of the base of stoicheo; something orderly in arrangement, i.e. a serial constituent, proposition.">spiritual forces</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">of the</a> <a href="/greek/2889.htm" title="2889: kosmou (N-GMS) -- Probably from the base of komizo; orderly arrangement, i.e. Decoration; by implication, the world (morally).">world</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">rather than</a> <a href="/greek/2596.htm" title="2596: kata (Prep) -- A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).">on</a> <a href="/greek/5547.htm" title="5547: Christon (N-AMS) -- Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.">Christ.</a> 9For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity dwells in bodily form.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/ephesians/5-6.htm">Ephesians 5:6</a> Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things the wrath of God is coming on the sons of disobedience. <a href="/1_timothy/6-20.htm">1 Timothy 6:20-21</a> O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you. Avoid irreverent, empty chatter and the opposing arguments of so-called “knowledge,” / which some have professed and thus swerved away from the faith. Grace be with you all. <a href="/2_corinthians/11-3.htm">2 Corinthians 11:3-4</a> I am afraid, however, that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may be led astray from your simple and pure devotion to Christ. / For if someone comes and proclaims a Jesus other than the One we proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit than the One you received, or a different gospel than the one you accepted, you put up with it very easily. <a href="/galatians/1-6.htm">Galatians 1:6-9</a> I am amazed how quickly you are deserting the One who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— / which is not even a gospel. Evidently some people are troubling you and trying to distort the gospel of Christ. / But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be under a curse! ... <a href="/1_john/4-1.htm">1 John 4:1</a> Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. For many false prophets have gone out into the world. <a href="/2_peter/2-1.htm">2 Peter 2:1-3</a> Now there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. / Many will follow in their depravity, and because of them the way of truth will be defamed. / In their greed, these false teachers will exploit you with deceptive words. The longstanding verdict against them remains in force, and their destruction does not sleep. <a href="/romans/16-17.htm">Romans 16:17-18</a> Now I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who create divisions and obstacles that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Turn away from them. / For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. <a href="/1_corinthians/3-18.htm">1 Corinthians 3:18-20</a> Let no one deceive himself. If any of you thinks he is wise in this age, he should become a fool, so that he may become wise. / For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness.” / And again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.” <a href="/2_timothy/3-13.htm">2 Timothy 3:13</a> while evil men and imposters go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. <a href="/matthew/15-9.htm">Matthew 15:9</a> They worship Me in vain; they teach as doctrine the precepts of men.’” <a href="/1_john/2-26.htm">1 John 2:26</a> I have written these things to you about those who are trying to deceive you. <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-3.htm">2 Thessalonians 2:3</a> Let no one deceive you in any way, for it will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness—the son of destruction—is revealed. <a href="/2_timothy/4-3.htm">2 Timothy 4:3-4</a> For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires. / So they will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. <a href="/acts/20-29.htm">Acts 20:29-30</a> I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. / Even from your own number, men will rise up and distort the truth to draw away disciples after them. <a href="/isaiah/29-13.htm">Isaiah 29:13</a> Therefore the Lord said: “These people draw near to Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. Their worship of Me is but rules taught by men.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div> Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.Beware.<a href="/deuteronomy/6-12.htm">Deuteronomy 6:12</a> Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.<a href="/matthew/7-15.htm">Matthew 7:15</a> Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.<a href="/matthew/10-17.htm">Matthew 10:17</a> But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues;spoil.<a href="/colossians/2-18.htm">Colossians 2:18</a> Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,<a href="/songs/2-15.htm">Song of Solomon 2:15</a> Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes.<a href="/jeremiah/29-8.htm">Jeremiah 29:8</a> For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Let not your prophets and your diviners, that be in the midst of you, deceive you, neither hearken to your dreams which ye cause to be dreamed.philosophy.<a href="/acts/17-18.htm">Acts 17:18,32</a> Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection… <a href="/romans/1-21.htm">Romans 1:21,22</a> Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened… <a href="/1_corinthians/1-19.htm">1 Corinthians 1:19-23</a> For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent… after the tradition.<a href="/colossians/2-22.htm">Colossians 2:22</a> Which all are to perish with the using;) after the commandments and doctrines of men?<a href="/matthew/15-2.htm">Matthew 15:2-9</a> Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread… <a href="/mark/7-3.htm">Mark 7:3-13</a> For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders… the rudiments.<a href="/colossians/2-20.htm">Colossians 2:20</a> 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,<a href="/galatians/4-3.htm">Galatians 4:3,9</a> Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: … <a href="/ephesians/2-2.htm">Ephesians 2:2</a> Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/galatians/4-3.htm">Basic</a> <a href="/philippians/3-2.htm">Beware</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-8.htm">Captive</a> <a href="/philippians/4-14.htm">Care</a> <a href="/philippians/4-10.htm">Careful</a> <a href="/colossians/2-6.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/colossians/2-4.htm">Deceit</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-16.htm">Deception</a> <a href="/micah/6-11.htm">Deceptive</a> <a href="/philippians/3-9.htm">Depends</a> <a href="/galatians/4-9.htm">Elemental</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-1.htm">Elementary</a> <a href="/galatians/4-9.htm">Elements</a> <a href="/philippians/2-7.htm">Empty</a> <a href="/daniel/4-5.htm">Fancies</a> <a href="/philippians/3-17.htm">Following</a> <a href="/galatians/5-15.htm">Heed</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-3.htm">Hollow</a> <a href="/colossians/1-22.htm">Human</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-3.htm">Idle</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-14.htm">Makes</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-16.htm">Maketh</a> <a href="/philippians/3-11.htm">Means</a> <a href="/galatians/4-9.htm">Notions</a> <a href="/zephaniah/3-8.htm">Prey</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-9.htm">Principles</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-8.htm">Prisoners</a> <a href="/philippians/3-4.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-8.htm">Rob</a> <a href="/galatians/4-3.htm">Rudiments</a> <a href="/philippians/4-23.htm">Spirits</a> <a href="/luke/11-22.htm">Spoil</a> <a href="/mark/7-13.htm">Tradition</a> <a href="/galatians/1-14.htm">Traditions</a> <a href="/colossians/1-20.htm">Universe</a> <a href="/philippians/2-16.htm">Vain</a> <a href="/colossians/1-27.htm">World</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-12.htm">World's</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/galatians/4-3.htm">Basic</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-15.htm">Beware</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-26.htm">Captive</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-6.htm">Care</a> <a href="/1_timothy/4-15.htm">Careful</a> <a href="/colossians/2-9.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-3.htm">Deceit</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-3.htm">Deception</a> <a href="/2_peter/2-3.htm">Deceptive</a> <a href="/hebrews/9-10.htm">Depends</a> <a href="/colossians/2-20.htm">Elemental</a> <a href="/colossians/2-20.htm">Elementary</a> <a href="/colossians/2-20.htm">Elements</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-6.htm">Empty</a> <a href="/daniel/4-5.htm">Fancies</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-15.htm">Following</a> <a href="/colossians/4-17.htm">Heed</a> <a href="/genesis/23-9.htm">Hollow</a> <a href="/colossians/2-22.htm">Human</a> <a href="/colossians/2-18.htm">Idle</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-8.htm">Makes</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-13.htm">Maketh</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-5.htm">Means</a> <a href="/colossians/2-18.htm">Notions</a> <a href="/genesis/15-11.htm">Prey</a> <a href="/colossians/2-20.htm">Principles</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-10.htm">Prisoners</a> <a href="/colossians/3-23.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/colossians/2-18.htm">Rob</a> <a href="/colossians/2-20.htm">Rudiments</a> <a href="/colossians/2-20.htm">Spirits</a> <a href="/hebrews/7-4.htm">Spoil</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-6.htm">Tradition</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-15.htm">Traditions</a> <a href="/colossians/2-20.htm">Universe</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-1.htm">Vain</a> <a href="/colossians/2-20.htm">World</a> <a href="/colossians/2-20.htm">World's</a><div class="vheading2">Colossians 2</div>1. <a href="/colossians/2-1.htm">Paul still exhorts them to be constant in Christ;</a> 8. <a href="/colossians/2-8.htm">to beware of philosophy, and vain traditions;</a> 18. <a href="/colossians/2-18.htm">worshipping of angels;</a> 20. <a href="/colossians/2-20.htm">and legal ceremonies, which are ended in Christ.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/colossians/2.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/colossians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/colossians/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>See to it that no one takes you captive This phrase serves as a warning to the believers in Colossae. The imagery of captivity suggests being led away from the truth of the Gospel. In the historical context, the Colossian church was facing false teachings that threatened to lead them astray. The Apostle Paul emphasizes vigilance, urging believers to guard their faith against influences that could enslave their minds and hearts.through philosophy and empty deception The term "philosophy" here does not refer to all philosophical thought but specifically to teachings that are contrary to the Gospel. "Empty deception" implies teachings that are hollow and lack truth. In the Greco-Roman world, various philosophical systems were prevalent, often promoting ideas that conflicted with Christian doctrine. Paul warns against being misled by such teachings that promise wisdom but are devoid of spiritual truth.which are based on human tradition Human tradition refers to practices and beliefs passed down through generations that are not rooted in divine revelation. In the Jewish context, this could relate to the oral traditions that were sometimes placed on par with Scripture. Jesus Himself criticized the Pharisees for elevating human traditions above God's commandments (<a href="/mark/7-8.htm">Mark 7:8-9</a>). Paul cautions against allowing these traditions to overshadow the teachings of Christ.and the spiritual forces of the world This phrase points to the influence of spiritual entities and worldly principles that oppose God. In <a href="/ephesians/6-12.htm">Ephesians 6:12</a>, Paul speaks of the spiritual battle against "the rulers, authorities, and powers of this dark world." The Colossians were likely encountering teachings influenced by such forces, which sought to undermine the supremacy of Christ. The warning is to remain aware of these spiritual dynamics and not be swayed by them.rather than on Christ The centrality of Christ is the foundation of Paul's message. Any teaching or philosophy that detracts from the person and work of Jesus is to be rejected. <a href="/colossians/1-18.htm">Colossians 1:18</a> emphasizes that Christ is the head of the church and preeminent in all things. Believers are encouraged to root their faith and understanding in Christ alone, who is the source of all wisdom and knowledge (<a href="/colossians/2-3.htm">Colossians 2:3</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of the letter to the Colossians, Paul is writing to address false teachings and to encourage the believers in Colossae to remain steadfast in their faith in Christ. 2. <a href="/topical/c/colossae.htm">Colossae</a> An ancient city in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey) where the church to whom Paul is writing is located. The city was a melting pot of various cultural and religious influences, which may have contributed to the false teachings Paul addresses. 3. <a href="/topical/f/false_teachers.htm">False Teachers</a> While not named specifically, these individuals were promoting philosophies and traditions that were contrary to the teachings of Christ, leading believers astray. 4. <a href="/topical/p/philosophy_and_empty_deception.htm">Philosophy and Empty Deception</a> Refers to the human-centered teachings and traditions that were infiltrating the church, which Paul warns against. 5. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_forces_of_the_world.htm">Spiritual Forces of the World</a> This phrase suggests the influence of demonic or worldly powers that oppose the truth of the Gospel.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/g/guard_against_deception.htm">Guard Against Deception</a> Believers must be vigilant and discerning, ensuring that their beliefs and practices are rooted in Christ and not in human traditions or deceptive philosophies. <a href="/topical/c/christ-centered_worldview.htm">Christ-Centered Worldview</a> Our understanding of the world and our place in it should be based on the teachings of Christ, not on secular or worldly philosophies. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_discernment.htm">Spiritual Discernment</a> Develop the ability to discern between truth and falsehood by immersing oneself in Scripture and prayer. <a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_human_tradition.htm">The Danger of Human Tradition</a> Recognize that not all traditions are beneficial or aligned with the Gospel; evaluate them against the truth of Scripture. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_warfare_awareness.htm">Spiritual Warfare Awareness</a> Be aware of the spiritual forces that seek to lead us away from Christ and stand firm in the armor of God.<a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/colossians/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(8-15) The general exhortation of the previous verses is now emphasised by a solemn warning against deadly speculative error. Now, (1) the character of that error in itself is described with apparently intentional vagueness, as "a philosophy of vain deceit," "after tradition of men," after "the rudiments of this world." Even its Judaic origin, which is made clear below (<a href="/context/colossians/2-16.htm" title=" Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holy day, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days:">Colossians 2:16-17</a>), is here only hinted at in the significant allusion to Circumcision, and perhaps in the phrase "the rudiments of the world," which is also used of the Judaism of Galatia (<a href="/galatians/4-3.htm" title="Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:">Galatians 4:3</a>; <a href="/galatians/4-9.htm" title="But now, after that you have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn you again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto you desire again to be in bondage?">Galatians 4:9</a>). (2) What is brought out vividly and emphatically is the truth which it contradicts or obscures. First, the full indwelling Godhead of Christ and His headship over all created being; and next, as derived from this, our own "spiritual circumcision in Him, i.e., the true "death unto sin and new life unto righteousness" in Him who is the One Atonement for all sin, and the One Conqueror of all the powers of evil. On the relation of the Epistle to Gnosticism see Excursus A.(8) Spoil you.--Properly, lead you away as a spoil, triumph over you as a captive, and make you a slave. Comp. St. Paul's language as to the older Judaism at Corinth (<a href="/2_corinthians/11-20.htm" title="For you suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face.">2Corinthians 11:20</a>), "Ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face."Philosophy and vain deceit--i.e. (like "the knowledge falsely so called" of <a href="/1_timothy/6-20.htm" title="O Timothy, keep that which is committed to your trust, avoiding profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:">1Timothy 6:20</a>), a philosophy which is inseparably connected with vain deceit. The warning implied here seems to be two-fold:--(1) First, against considering Christianity primarily as a "philosophy," i.e., a search for and knowledge of speculative truth, even the highest. That it involves philosophy is obvious, for it claims to solve for us the great problem of Being, in Nature, in Man, and in God. St. Paul, while he depreciates the wisdom of this world, dwells emphatically on the gospel as the "wisdom of God." (See especially <a href="/context/1_corinthians/2-6.htm" title="However, we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nothing:">1Corinthians 2:6-16</a>.) In this Epistle in particular he speaks of "wisdom" again and again (<a href="/colossians/1-9.htm" title=" For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that you might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;">Colossians 1:9</a>; <a href="/colossians/1-28.htm" title=" Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:">Colossians 1:28</a>; <a href="/colossians/2-3.htm" title=" In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.">Colossians 2:3</a>; <a href="/colossians/3-16.htm" title=" Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.">Colossians 3:16</a>; <a href="/colossians/4-6.htm" title=" Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man.">Colossians 4:6</a>) as one great characteristic of Christian life. Nor is it less clear (as the ancient Greek commentators here earnestly remind us) that Christianity finds a place and a blessing for all true philosophy of men, and makes it, as St. Paul made it at Athens, an introduction to the higher wisdom. But Christianity is not a philosophy, but a life--not a knowledge of abstract principles, but a personal knowledge of faith and love of God in Christ. (2) Next, against accepting in philosophy the "vain deceit" of mere speculation and imagination instead of the modest, laborious investigation of facts. This is the "knowledge falsely so called"; of this it may be said (as in <a href="/1_corinthians/8-1.htm" title="Now as touching things offered to idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but charity edifies.">1Corinthians 8:1</a>) that it "puffs up," and does not "build up." In ancient and modern times it has always confused brilliant theory with solid discovery, delighting especially to dissolve the great facts of the gospel into abstractions, which may float in its cloudland of imagination. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/colossians/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 8-15. - SECTION V. THE CHRISTIAN'S COMPLETENESS IN CHRIST. The apostle has first defined his own doctrinal position in the theological deliverance of <a href="/colossians/1-15.htm">Colossians 1:15-20</a>, and has then skilfully brought himself into suitable personal relations with his readers by the statements and appeals of <a href="/colossians/1-23.htm">Colossians 1:23-2:7</a>. And now, after a general indication in ver. 4 of the direction in which he is about to strike, he unmasks the battery he has been all the while preparing, and delivers his attack on the Colossian error, occupying the rest of this second chapter, he denounces (1) its false philosophy of religion (vers. 8-15); (2) its arbitrary and obsolete ceremonialism (vers. 16, 17); (3) its visionary angel worship (vers. 18, 19); . . . <a href="/commentaries/colossians/2-8.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>See to it Βλέπετε (Blepete) Verb - Present Imperative Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_991.htm">Strong's 991: </a> (primarily physical), I look, see, perceive, discern. A primary verb; to look at. that no one μή (mē) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3361.htm">Strong's 3361: </a> Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether. takes you captive συλαγωγῶν (sylagōgōn) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4812.htm">Strong's 4812: </a> To plunder, lead captive; met: I make victim by fraud. From the base of sulao and ago; to lead away as booty, i.e. seduce. through διὰ (dia) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1223.htm">Strong's 1223: </a> A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through. philosophy φιλοσοφίας (philosophias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5385.htm">Strong's 5385: </a> From philosophos; 'philosophy', i.e., Jewish sophistry. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. empty κενῆς (kenēs) Adjective - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2756.htm">Strong's 2756: </a> Apparently a primary word; empty. deception, ἀπάτης (apatēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_539.htm">Strong's 539: </a> Deceit, deception, deceitfulness, delusion. From apatao; delusion. which are based on κατὰ (kata) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_2596.htm">Strong's 2596: </a> A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined). human ἀνθρώπων (anthrōpōn) Noun - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_444.htm">Strong's 444: </a> A man, one of the human race. From aner and ops; man-faced, i.e. A human being. tradition παράδοσιν (paradosin) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3862.htm">Strong's 3862: </a> An instruction, tradition. From paradidomi; transmission, i.e. a precept; specially, the Jewish traditionary law. [and] κατὰ (kata) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_2596.htm">Strong's 2596: </a> A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined). the τὰ (ta) Article - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. spiritual forces στοιχεῖα (stoicheia) Noun - Accusative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4747.htm">Strong's 4747: </a> Neuter of a presumed derivative of the base of stoicheo; something orderly in arrangement, i.e. a serial constituent, proposition. of the τοῦ (tou) Article - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. world κόσμου (kosmou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2889.htm">Strong's 2889: </a> Probably from the base of komizo; orderly arrangement, i.e. Decoration; by implication, the world (morally). rather than οὐ (ou) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. on κατὰ (kata) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_2596.htm">Strong's 2596: </a> A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined). Christ. Χριστόν (Christon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5547.htm">Strong's 5547: </a> Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/colossians/2-8.htm">Colossians 2:8 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/colossians/2-8.htm">NT Letters: Colossians 2:8 Be careful that you don't let anyone (Coloss. Col Co) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/colossians/2-7.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Colossians 2:7"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Colossians 2:7" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/colossians/2-9.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Colossians 2:9"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Colossians 2:9" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>