The Battle For Booty!

In Paul’s letter to the church at Colossae, he warned…
“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.” ( Colossians 2:8 ESV)

The Greek word translated “CAPTIVE” is “sulagogon” from “sulagogeo”, which means “to carry off as spoil” or “lead captive” (“sule”, spoil, and “ago”, to lead). [source: “Vine’s Exp. Dict. Of N.T. Words”] Paul’s warning was to watch out for those who would use philosophy and deception to gain a victory over them, carrying them away as the spoils (or booty) of war in the battle for their minds and lives. Even today, with all the ideologies and teachings proclaimed to be truth, the battle rages on.

Some don’t care what they teach as long as they can gain a following. Such are those who are ready to teach what the masses want to hear (i.e. 2 Timothy 4:3) rather than the truth that is needed. The more time we spend studying God’s Word, the more easily we will be able to distinguish between truth and falsehood.

As Paul mentioned this battle in his second letter to the church at Corinth we read…
“(4) For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have DIVINE POWER to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments (5) and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE TO OBEY CHRIST, (6) being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.” ( 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 ESV)

Here, the Greek word used by Paul that is translated “CAPTIVE” is “aichmalotizo” which means to either take captive or bring under the control of another. [source: “Vine’s Exp. Dict. Of N.T. Words”] Vine’s also states that this word is practically synonymous with “aichmaloteuo” which signifies either to be a prisoner of war or to be made a prisoner of war.

To be taken as “spoil” by worldly philosophies will spoil our chances of the hope of eternal life. However, to have our minds led away “CAPTIVE to obey Christ” will mean for us to be blessed as His booty to be held secure for eternity. May the Lord gain the victory in the battle for our mind and life.

Have a great day HELD CAPTIVE BY CHRIST!
Carl

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