Focus for Today
Don’t let anyone kidnap you! (verse 8).
See to it that no one takes you captive…
You need a Pastor!
Colossians 2:4 I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments.
Colossians 2:8 See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.
Two Great Dangers...
Progressive Christianity
Ethnic Gnosticism / The Woke Cult
Progressive Christianity
There are signs—certain phrases and ideas—that seem to be consistent in Progressive circles. Five danger signs to watch for (with help from Alisa Childers):
1. There is a lowered view of the Bible
2. Feelings are emphasized over facts
3. Essential Christian doctrines are open for re-interpretation
4. Historic terms are re-defined
5. The heart of the gospel message shifts from sin and redemption to social justice
Ethnic Gnosticism / Woke Culture
The “Cult Dynamics of Wokeness” have four characteristics (with help from James Lindsay):
“Initiation” (be on our anti-racist team, cut ties with your family, let us help meet your need to belong)
“Indoctrination” (you’ve contributed to this racist mess and you can never understand it because you’re an oppressor - which is ethnic Gnosticism)
“Reprograming” (help us dismantle systems, defund the police, and build a better world; always be looking for racism in everything)
Finally, show your “Allegiance.” (Do your penance before the public. Make a costly sacrifice. Bow down and worship. Kiss someone’s boots. Find someone who is of another ethnicity and give money and bow. You must do something symbolic)