Philosophy
Summary
Philosophy in the biblical context refers primarily to Greek speculative thought, which Paul warned the Colossians against when it conflicted with the truth of Christ.
☩Paul's Warning
Paul cautioned the Colossian believers not to be taken captive by 'philosophy and empty deceit' based on human tradition rather than Christ. This warning addressed the syncretistic teachings threatening the early church, which combined Greek philosophical speculation with Jewish legalism and early Gnostic elements.
☩Greek Schools
In Athens, Paul encountered Epicurean and Stoic philosophers who debated with him about the gospel. The Epicureans sought pleasure and tranquility through avoiding pain, while the Stoics emphasized virtue, reason, and acceptance of fate.
☩Wisdom and the Gospel
Paul contrasted worldly wisdom with the wisdom of God revealed in Christ crucified. He declared that God made foolish the wisdom of the world, and that the message of the cross, though foolishness to Greeks seeking wisdom, is the power and wisdom of God.
Related Verses16 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Philosophy," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. VIII (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Philosophy," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Philosophy," in Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1915–1918).
- 4.George Morrish, "Philosophy," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).