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Colossians 2:16-23 continues Paul’s warning against legalism and man-made religion. He tells believers not to let anyone judge them in food, drink, festivals, new moons, or Sabbaths. These things were shadows of what was to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. Religious forms may have had a purpose in pointing forward, but they must never be treated as equal to the fulfilment found in Him.
The study also warns against false humility, angel worship, spiritual pride, and people intruding into things they have not truly seen. Such religion may sound impressive, but it is not holding fast to the Head, who is Christ. From Him the body is nourished, joined together, and grows with the increase that comes from God. The church does not grow by mystical curiosity or religious control, but by remaining joined to Christ.
Paul closes the chapter by exposing the weakness of self-imposed religion: do not touch, do not taste, do not handle. Such rules may have an appearance of wisdom, but they have no real power against the indulgence of the flesh. Men may condemn, but Christ convicts and transforms. This message calls us to reject outward religious performance as a substitute for the inward work of the Holy Spirit.