Jesus +
Legalism – trusting rules for acceptance with God
Asceticism – trusting in strict self-denial to achieve greater spirituality
Mysticism – trusting in abstract experiences to connect with God

Turn your focus to Christ!

1. Beware of bypassing Christ 16-19

Law, festivals, and Sabbath point to Jesus and are fulfilled in Him.
We miss Jesus with:

• False humility
• Misdirected worship
• Elevating experience over truth

Purpose and growth come from Jesus, our Head!

2. Beware of hopeless religion 20-23

The world’s elementary system is worthless and empty!

• Based on false wisdom
• Focused on self
• Powerless to save or transform

We are set free in Christ!

3. Beware of earthly distractions 1-4

Seek faith and practice that exalts Christ!
"Some people are so heavenly minded that they are of no earthly good." -Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr.
We must keep a vertical aim with a horizontal impact.
We are set apart in Christ for security, satisfaction, and splendor.