²⁰ Since you died with Christ^(A) to the elemental spiritual forces of this world,^(B) why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules:^(C)

²² These rules, which have to do with things that are all destined to perish^(A) with use, are based on merely human commands and teachings.^{(B) 23} Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility^(C) and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.

¹⁰ Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people?^(A) If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.

⁴ This matter arose because some false believers^(A) had infiltrated our ranks to spy on^(B) the freedom^(C) we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves. ⁵ We did not give in to them for a moment, so that the truth of the gospel^(D) might be preserved for you.

Freedom in Christ

5 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.^(A) Stand firm,^(B) then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.^(C)