20 If with Christ (A)you died to the (B)elemental spirits of the world, (C)why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— 21 (D)“Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch” 22 ((E)referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to (F)human precepts and teachings? 23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in (G)promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are (H)of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.

Read full chapter

20 If you died with Christ to the way the world thinks and acts, why do you submit to rules and regulations as though you were living in the world? 21 “Don’t handle!” “Don’t taste!” “Don’t touch!” 22 All these things cease to exist when they are used. Such rules are human commandments and teachings. 23 They look like they are wise with this self-made religion and their self-denial by the harsh treatment of the body, but they are no help against indulging in selfish immoral behavior.

Read full chapter