Colossians 1

Just what is the "Colossian heresy"? As we read between the lines in 2:8-25 we can begin to discern its shape. The heresy seems to have had these elements:

A belief system, called a "hollow and deceptive philosophy"(2:8).

Tradition-based, "depends on human tradition"(2:8, 22).

Elemental spiritual forces underlie the system (2:8).

Not Christ-centered, the teaching doesn't "depend on ... Christ"(2:8).

Food restrictions and Jewish "holy days" are involved (2:16).

Ascetic disciplines are encouraged (2:18, 23).

Angel worship is central (2:18).

Visionary experiences are touted (2:18).

Pride characterizes the proponents (2:18).

Losing connection with Christ is the result (2:19).

Rule-keeping is urged (2:20-23).

Most scholars agree on these points. Three more possible points are less certain.

"Fullness" language (1:19; 2:9, 10) suggests that a "fullness" of spiritual experience couldn't be found in Christ alone. The vocabulary is found in both Gnosticism and Stoicism.

Circumcision is advocated (2:11, 13; 3:11) -- perhaps.

Christ is being denigrated -- perhaps -- though this may reflect Paul's cure more than the active teaching of his opponents.