Colossians 2:16

KJV

¶ Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath [days]:

KJV (with Strong's)

Let {G2919} no {G3361} man {G5100} therefore {G3767} judge {G2919} you {G5209} in {G1722} meat {G1035}, or {G2228} in {G1722} drink {G4213}, or {G2228} in {G1722} respect {G3313} of an holyday {G1859}, or {G2228} of the new moon {G3561}, or {G2228} of the sabbath {G4521} days:

Complete Jewish Bible

So don’t let anyone pass judgment on you in connection with eating and drinking, or in regard to a Jewish festival or Rosh-Hodesh or Shabbat.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore let no one judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a feast, a New Moon, or a Sabbath.

American Standard Version

Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of a feast day or a new moon or a sabbath day:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Colossians 2:16 serves as a foundational declaration of Christian liberty, asserting that believers are not to be subjected to human judgment concerning ceremonial observances like dietary restrictions, specific festivals, new moon celebrations, or Sabbath keeping. This verse underscores the complete sufficiency of Christ's work on the cross, which renders the Old Covenant shadows obsolete and liberates believers from legalistic burdens, enabling them to live in the freedom and fullness found in Him alone.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The Apostle Paul's letter to the Colossians is a robust defense against a syncretistic heresy threatening the integrity of the church. Prior to [Colossians 2:16](/colossians/2-16 "Colossians 2:16 - Christian Liberty in Christ"), Paul has meticulously established the absolute supremacy and preeminence of Christ as the Creator and Sustainer of all things, the head of the church, and the one in whom all the fullness of God dwells ([Colossians 1:15-20](/colossians/1-15-20 "Colossians 1:15-20 - The Supremacy of Christ")). He then transitions to warning against "philosophy and empty deceit" ([Colossians 2:8](/colossians/2-8 "Colossians 2:8 - Warning Against Philosophy")) that seeks to enslave believers through human traditions rather than through Christ. Paul emphasizes that believers are "complete in Him" ([Colossians 2:10](/colossians/2-10 "Colossians 2:10 - Completeness in Christ")), having been spiritually circumcised, buried with Christ in baptism, and raised with Him through faith ([Colossians 2:11-12](/colossians/2-11-12 "Colossians 2:11-12 - Spiritual Circumcision and Baptism")). The "certificate of debt" against humanity has been canceled and nailed to the cross, disarming spiritual powers ([Colossians 2:14-15](/colossians/2-14-15 "Colossians 2:14-15 - Cancellation of Debt and Triumph Over Powers")). [Colossians 2:16](/colossians/2-16 "Colossians 2:16 - Christian Liberty in Christ") logically follows, directly applying this profound theological truth to specific legalistic practices, asserting that since Christ has triumphed and completed all things, these external observances are no longer binding for salvation or spiritual maturity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The church in Colossae faced a unique and dangerous blend of false teachings, often referred to as the "Colossian heresy." This heresy appears to have combined elements of Jewish legalism (insistence on adherence to Mosaic Law, particularly ceremonial aspects), asceticism (severe self-discipline and deprivation), and possibly proto-Gnostic tendencies (emphasis on secret knowledge, worship of angels, and a diminished view of Christ's full deity and humanity). The Jewish elements specifically relate to the Mosaic Law's ceremonial aspects, which included detailed regulations regarding food (e.g., clean and unclean animals in [Leviticus 11](/leviticus/11 "Leviticus 11 - Clean and Unclean Animals")), drink offerings, annual feasts (e.g., Passover, Pentecost, Tabernacles in [Leviticus 23](/leviticus/23 "Leviticus 23 - The Feasts of the Lord")), monthly new moon celebrations ([Numbers 28:11-15](/numbers/28-11-15 "Numbers 28:11-15 - Offerings for New Moons")), and the weekly Sabbath rest ([Exodus 20:8-11](/exodus/20-8-11 "Exodus 20:8-11 - The Commandment to Keep the Sabbath")). These practices, while divinely ordained for Old Covenant Israel, were being imposed on Gentile believers as necessary for spiritual perfection, thereby undermining the sufficiency of Christ's work and the grace of the gospel.
* **Key Themes:** [Colossians 2:16](/colossians/2-16 "Colossians 2:16 - Christian Liberty in Christ") significantly contributes to several major theological and narrative themes within Colossians and broader Pauline theology. Firstly, it champions **Christian Liberty**, emphasizing that believers are freed from the bondage of legalistic requirements and human traditions. This freedom is not a license for sin, but a liberation to serve God out of love and gratitude, not fear or compulsion. Secondly, it powerfully reinforces the **Sufficiency of Christ**, a central tenet of the entire epistle. Paul consistently argues that Christ's redemptive work is complete and all-encompassing, making any human additions or efforts to earn salvation or spiritual advancement utterly unnecessary and even detrimental. Believers are "complete in Him" ([Colossians 2:10](/colossians/2-10 "Colossians 2:10 - Completeness in Christ")), meaning nothing more is needed for their standing before God. Thirdly, the passage serves as a **Warning Against Legalism and Syncretism**. It directly confronts those who would "judge" or condemn believers based on adherence to external rules, whether from Jewish ceremonial law or philosophical asceticism. Paul makes it clear that such practices are "a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ" ([Colossians 2:17](/colossians/2-17 "Colossians 2:17 - Shadow and Reality")), indicating their temporary, symbolic nature, now fulfilled in the reality of Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Judge (Greek, _krínō'_):** This word, from which we get "critic," properly means "to distinguish, decide (mentally or judicially); by implication, to try, condemn, punish." In this context, it refers to passing a negative judgment or condemning someone based on their adherence to or deviation from specific practices. Paul is warning against those who would act as spiritual arbiters, imposing their standards and finding fault with those who do not conform to their legalistic interpretations of righteousness.
* **Meat (Greek, _brōsis'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to eat," this term refers abstractly to the act of eating, and concretely to "food" or "meat." In the context of the Mosaic Law, it specifically relates to dietary regulations, such as the distinction between clean and unclean foods ([Leviticus 11](/leviticus/11 "Leviticus 11 - Clean and Unclean Animals")) or prohibitions against certain types of meat. Paul's inclusion of "meat" and "drink" indicates a direct challenge to the imposition of Old Testament dietary laws or other ascetic dietary practices as requirements for spiritual standing in the New Covenant.
* **Sabbath (Greek, _sábbaton'_):** This word, of Hebrew origin (שַׁבָּת), refers to the weekly day of rest from secular avocations, the Sabbath itself, or by extension, a week. In Jewish tradition, the Sabbath was a central observance, commemorating God's rest after creation and Israel's deliverance from Egyptian bondage. Its inclusion here, alongside "holyday" (annual festivals) and "new moon" (monthly observances), signifies that Paul is addressing the entire spectrum of Old Covenant ceremonial calendar observances that the false teachers were attempting to enforce.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Let no man therefore judge you":** This opening phrase is a strong imperative, a command to the Colossian believers not to allow anyone to condemn or pass judgment on them. The "therefore" (οὖν) connects this command directly to the preceding theological arguments about Christ's supremacy, the believer's completeness in Him, and His triumph over the Law and spiritual powers ([Colossians 2:14-15](/colossians/2-14-15 "Colossians 2:14-15 - Cancellation of Debt and Triumph Over Powers")). Since Christ has fulfilled all, human judgment based on external observances is illegitimate and without authority.
* **"in meat, or in drink":** This refers to dietary regulations, a significant part of the Mosaic Law. The "meat" (food) and "drink" (possibly drink offerings or general beverages) cover the spectrum of consumption. This clause directly challenges the imposition of Old Testament kosher laws or other ascetic dietary practices as requirements for spiritual standing within the Christian community.
* **"or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath [days]":** This enumerates specific ceremonial calendar observances from the Old Covenant. "Holyday" refers to the annual Jewish festivals (e.g., Passover, Pentecost, Tabernacles). "New moon" refers to the monthly celebration marking the beginning of a new lunar month. "Sabbath days" refers to the weekly seventh-day rest. By listing these, Paul comprehensively addresses the ceremonial calendar of the Old Testament, making it clear that adherence to these specific days is no longer a criterion for judgment within the Christian community. The phrase "in respect of" (ἐν μέρει) emphasizes that the judgment concerns a "part" or "portion" of these observances, further underscoring the legalistic nature of the false teaching.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several significant literary devices in [Colossians 2:16](/colossians/2-16 "Colossians 2:16 - Christian Liberty in Christ"). The most prominent is **Enumeration**, where he lists specific categories of Old Covenant observances ("meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days"). This detailed list serves to comprehensively cover the ceremonial law, ensuring that his audience understands the breadth of the freedom Christ has secured. By explicitly mentioning these, Paul leaves no room for ambiguity regarding the areas where believers are not to be judged. Furthermore, there is a powerful element of **Antithesis** when this verse is read in conjunction with [Colossians 2:17](/colossians/2-17 "Colossians 2:17 - Shadow and Reality"). The ceremonial practices listed in [Colossians 2:16](/colossians/2-16 "Colossians 2:16 - Christian Liberty in Christ") are presented as "shadows," directly contrasted with Christ, who is the "body" or "reality." This stark contrast highlights the temporary and preparatory nature of the Old Covenant rituals versus the ultimate and complete fulfillment found in Christ. Finally, the strong imperative "Let no man therefore judge you" functions as a **Command** or **Exhortation**, directly empowering the Colossian believers to resist the pressures of legalism and embrace their freedom in Christ.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Colossians 2:16 is a pivotal text for understanding the relationship between the Old and New Covenants, asserting that the ceremonial aspects of the Mosaic Law, which served as shadows and types, found their ultimate fulfillment and reality in Jesus Christ. The freedom declared here is not a license for lawlessness but a profound liberation from the burden of earning righteousness through external observances. It underscores that justification and sanctification are solely by grace through faith in Christ, not by adherence to human-made rules or even divinely instituted Old Covenant rituals that have now been superseded. This theological truth liberates believers to worship God in spirit and truth, with hearts transformed by the gospel, rather than being bound by outward forms that no longer convey the substance of God's redemptive plan.

* [Romans 14:17](/romans/14-17 "Romans 14:17 - The Kingdom of God is Righteousness, Peace, and Joy")
* [Galatians 5:1](/galatians/5-1 "Galatians 5:1 - Stand Fast in Liberty")
* [Hebrews 10:1](/hebrews/10-1 "Hebrews 10:1 - The Law is a Shadow")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Colossians 2:16 powerfully calls believers to embrace the radical freedom found in Christ, reminding us that our standing before God is not contingent upon external observances or adherence to human-imposed rules. In a world still prone to legalism, whether from traditional religious structures or self-righteous tendencies, this verse serves as a crucial safeguard against adding burdens to the gospel. It challenges us to examine our own hearts: do we subtly judge others based on their practices (or lack thereof) regarding diet, entertainment, or specific days of worship? Do we, perhaps unintentionally, create extra-biblical requirements for "true" spirituality? This passage encourages a focus on the internal transformation wrought by the Holy Spirit, fostering a love for God and neighbor that flows from gratitude for Christ's finished work, rather than from a desire to earn favor or avoid condemnation. It champions a vibrant, Christ-centered faith that is lived out in liberty, guided by biblical principles and the Spirit, not by the dictates of human tradition or the shadows of a former covenant.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my spiritual life might I be subtly imposing legalistic rules on myself or others, contrary to the freedom offered in Christ?**
* **How does understanding the "shadow" and "reality" distinction (Colossians 2:17) deepen my appreciation for Christ's complete work?**
* **How can I live out Christian liberty responsibly, ensuring it leads to greater devotion to Christ rather than a license for sin?**

### FAQ
**Does Colossians 2:16 mean Christians can disregard all moral laws, including the Ten Commandments?**

Answer: No, Colossians 2:16 specifically addresses the **ceremonial** aspects of the Old Testament Law, which were "a shadow of things to come" ([Colossians 2:17](/colossians/2-17 "Colossians 2:17 - Shadow and Reality")). These included dietary restrictions, specific feast days, new moon observances, and the weekly Sabbath as part of the Mosaic Covenant's ritual system. It does not negate the **moral** law, which reflects God's unchanging character and is reaffirmed throughout the New Testament. For example, commandments against murder, theft, and adultery are upheld by Jesus and the apostles ([Romans 13:8-10](/romans/13-8-10 "Romans 13:8-10 - Love Fulfills the Law")). Christian liberty means freedom from the burden of earning salvation through works of the law, not freedom to sin. Believers are called to live holy lives, empowered by the Spirit, reflecting the righteousness of Christ ([Galatians 5:13](/galatians/5-13 "Galatians 5:13 - Freedom to Serve")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Colossians 2:16 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the very substance and reality to which all Old Covenant shadows pointed. The dietary laws, annual festivals, new moon celebrations, and Sabbath days were not ends in themselves but served as prophetic types, foreshadowing the coming Messiah and His redemptive work. Christ is the true "meat" and "drink" of eternal life ([John 6:53-58](/john/6-53-58 "John 6:53-58 - Eating Christ's Flesh and Drinking His Blood")), the ultimate Passover Lamb whose sacrifice inaugurated the new covenant ([1 Corinthians 5:7](/1_corinthians/5-7 "1 Corinthians 5:7 - Christ Our Passover")), and the One who brings the true spiritual rest that the Sabbath symbolized ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28-30 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). In Him, the old covenant's demands are fulfilled, and its ceremonial practices are rendered obsolete as means of righteousness or access to God. Believers are no longer under the "yoke of bondage" of the law but are made "complete in Him" ([Colossians 2:10](/colossians/2-10 "Colossians 2:10 - Completeness in Christ")), living in the glorious freedom purchased by His blood. This freedom is not lawlessness, but a Spirit-empowered life of love and obedience that flows from union with Christ, who is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes ([Romans 10:4](/romans/10-4 "Romans 10:4 - Christ the End of the Law")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 14:5

One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day [alike]. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.

Romans 14:6

He that regardeth the day, regardeth [it] unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard [it]. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.

Romans 14:10

But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

Galatians 4:10

Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years.

Romans 14:13

Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in [his] brother's way.

Romans 14:17

For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

Romans 14:2

For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.