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Paul- The Scholar

Text: Colossians 2:8

Paul was well-equipped to battle the false teachers who threatened the faith of the Colossians. He was able to deal with them effectively for these reasons.

“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.”
Colossians 2:8

1. Paul’s academic background

a) He spoke Greek (Acts 21:37).

b) He also spoke Hebrew (Acts 22:2).

c) He studied under the famous scholar Gamaliel (Acts 22:3).

2. Paul’s social background

a) He was brought up as a Pharisee (suggesting a strong moral upbringing) [Acts 23:6]

b) He enjoyed Roman citizenship (Acts 22:3, 28).

3. Paul’s religious background

a) His religious zeal caused him to be fanatical.

b) He persecuted Christians fiercely (Acts 22:4).

PAUL- THE CONVERT

Paul’s conversion was dramatic! His experience was unforgettable!

1. He was convicted of his sinfulness (Acts 9:1-9).

2. He was changed thoroughly (Acts 9:20-22).

3. He was committed to serving the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 1:12-17).

a) To preach the Gospel.

b) To defend the Gospel message.

c) To combat false teachers when they threatened the church.

BATTLING EMPTY DECEIT

Paul was aware of the false philosophical ideas that existed in his time.

1. “Empty Deceit”

This was how he saw the philosophical views in his day.

2. The false teachers employed deceit as they spread their teachings.

3. For all their talk, their philosophies were “empty deceit”. They could never cause a person to experience the life-changes that Paul (and every believer) had when he came to faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.