²⁰ If you died with the Messiah^(A) to the elemental forces of this world, why do you live as if you still belonged to the world? Why do you submit to regulations: ²¹ “Don’t handle, don’t taste, don’t touch”? ²² All these regulations refer to what is destroyed by being used up; they are commands and doctrines of men. ²³ Although these have a reputation of wisdom^(B) by promoting ascetic practices, humility, and severe treatment of the body, they are not of any value in curbing self-indulgence.^[a](C)

Demonic Influence

4 Now the Spirit^(A) explicitly says that in later times^(B) some will depart from the faith,^(C) paying attention to deceitful spirits^(D) and the teachings of demons,^{(E) 2} through the hypocrisy^(F) of liars whose consciences^(G) are seared. ³ They forbid marriage^(H) and demand abstinence^(I) from foods that God created^(J) to be received with gratitude by those who believe and know the truth. ⁴ For everything created by God is good,^(K) and nothing should be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving,^(L)

⁸ for