The danger of deceit

Paul now expresses plainly what before he has only implied, and makes his first direct reference to the errorists in Colosse.

We see here the vehicle for Paul's warning: it rides a wave of intense pastoral affection, demonstrated by earnest desire for and pursuit of the spiritual well-being of these saints, joy at every evidence of grace among them, and felt fellowship with them in Christ. This opens a door to their hearts for a sober warning.

Observe also the alertness required of healthy saints: danger looms, and Satan orchestrates a campaign of deliberate deceit to undermine God's character and word, just as he did in Eden. He assaults the person and work of Christ Jesus. Some will be utterly deluded and proved false, but even true saints will feel the debilitating effect of losing sight of Jesus as he truly is, being temporarily and partially crippled.

Finally, the danger lies in the persuasiveness of deceit: it is plausible. It destroys by degrees: deceit is not a street thug but a cunning assassin. It is not simply embracing gross heresy. Orthodox saints can be deceived when they either believe or live as if Jesus is something less or other than he truly is.

Where the true knowledge of Christ declines, spiritual declension and debilitation follow, and all manner of errors and follies can enter in. By contrast, clear and believing views of Christ are a shield against deceptive rhetoric, and the only means to attain spiritual vitality.