DAY 16 - CHRIST ALONE IS ENOUGH

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DAY 16 – Christ Alone is Enough by Pastor Dick

Therefore, if you died with Christ from the basic principles of the world, why, as though living in the world, do you subject yourselves to regulations? — Colossians 2:20 (NKJV)

The Warning Paul Gives

Paul’s been telling us who Christ is and what He’s done for us. Now he shifts gears to warn believers about a tricky new danger—false self-denial.

In those early church days, some folks thought to get “more spiritual,” you had to say “no” to certain foods, pleasures, or even follow a bunch of strict rules.

Sounds impressive on paper, right? Probably looking like spiritual superheroes, ready for their medals.

But Paul’s like, “Hold on a minute. Living like this isn’t the divine fast track to spiritual growth. It actually doesn’t help at all!”

As he writes: “These things indeed have an appearance of wisdom… but they’re powerless against the desires of the flesh.”

Discipline vs. Distortion

Discipline itself isn’t bad. Scripture calls us to pray, fast, give, and practice self-control.

But here’s the catch: real Christian discipline flows from freedom in Christ.

False discipline is trying to earn God’s favor by denying yourself and pushing your own will.

Christ did everything for us on the cross.

Trying to add to His work—thinking “less pleasure equals more holy”—is like telling the artist they forgot a brushstroke in the Mona Lisa!

Christ’s Perfection Is Enough

Paul’s reminder is clear: Christ alone is enough. His sacrifice is perfect. His life in you is complete. You can’t improve on perfection.

Sure, strict rules might get attention, but they can’t give you life. Only Christ can.

Living in Freedom

Friends, we don’t earn our walk with Christ by starving ourselves into spirituality. Christ lives in us as we walk close with Him, let the Spirit fill us, and enjoy His presence each day.

Our identity isn’t found in what we deny. It’s found in the One who gave Himself completely for us.

Remember:👉 We are complete in Christ.👉 We need no add‑ons.

Reflection Questions

• What is “asceticism,” and why is it dangerous to Christian faith?

• How might false self-denial sneak into your walk with God?

• What areas show Spirit-led discipline flowing from freedom—and what areas might be trapped in self-imposed rules? Ask Jesus to guide you to live from grace, not guilt.

  
  

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You that Your sacrifice is perfect and complete. I don’t have to add anything to it. Help me walk in true freedom, guided by Your Spirit, not stuck in man-made rules. Root me in the truth that Christ alone is enough. Amen.

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New Hope Church of God

1250 Waggoners Gap Rd

Carlisle, Pa

(717) 241-5544