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Rules to Relationship

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  • 3 min read

Pastor Collin Brennan

May 31, 2026

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OVERVIEW

Rules to Relationship

Pastor Collin Brennan

Colossians 2:16-23

What does it look like to truly follow Christ? Is the Christian life about keeping rules, observing traditions, and trying harder to appear spiritual? Or is it something deeper?


This Sunday, Pastor Collin Brennan continues our journey through Colossians by addressing a problem that still affects believers today: the temptation to substitute rules for relationship.

Paul warns the church not to allow anyone to judge their faith based on religious regulations, traditions, special observances, or human standards. While rules and spiritual disciplines may have their place, they were never meant to be the source of transformation.


They can influence behavior, but they cannot change the heart.


Throughout the message, we are reminded that everything the Old Testament pointed toward finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The rituals, festivals, and regulations were only shadows. Christ is the substance. Now that He has come, believers are called to hold fast to Him rather than return to religious systems that cannot save or transform.


Paul also warns against spiritual pride, false humility, and the pursuit of experiences that elevate people instead of exalting Christ. True spiritual growth is not found in appearances or self-made religion. It comes from remaining connected to Jesus, the Head of the Church, who supplies life, nourishment, and growth to His people.


As the passage concludes, Paul exposes the weakness of legalism. Rules like "Do not handle," "Do not taste," and "Do not touch" may look wise and disciplined, but they have no power to overcome the sinful desires of the heart. Only Christ can accomplish that kind of transformation.


The challenge for believers is clear:

  • Stay connected to Christ.

  • Don't go back to the grave of legalism and performance.

  • Remember that spiritual growth is ultimately a heart condition.


As we prepare to enter Colossians chapter 3 next week, Paul shifts from warning us about what doesn't work to showing us what does. Because when Christ changes us from the inside out, our lives begin to reflect the new life He has already given us.


Key Takeaway:

Rules may change behavior for a moment, but only Jesus can transform the heart. Real spiritual growth comes through a relationship with Christ, not through religious performance.

📅 Upcoming Message – Sunday, June 7, 2026

Speaker: Pastor Collin Brennan

Missionary: Katy Willis (Youth Alive)

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