Colossians 2:16 (KJV)

What does Colossians 2:16 mean?

Colossians 2:16 tells readers not to let anyone judge or criticize them about what they eat or drink, or about observing special religious days like festivals, new moons, or sabbath days. The verse means that these outward practices should not be used as a standard to measure someone’s faith or standing with God.

Paul is writing to Christians in Colossae, addressing concerns about outside pressures to follow certain religious rules and traditions. He is encouraging them not to feel bound by old regulations about food, drink, or religious holidays, which were often debated among early believers from Jewish and non-Jewish backgrounds.

The Greek behind Colossians 2:16

• The word κρίνω (krinō, “judge”) is used here to mean making a judgment or passing criticism. Paul is warning against letting others act as judges over these specific religious practices.
• The word ἑορτή (heortē, “holyday” or “festival”) refers to special Jewish religious celebrations. Mentioning this, along with “new moon” (νέα σελήνη, nea selēnē) and “sabbath” (σάββατον, sabbaton), points to traditional Jewish observances.
• The phrase ἐν βρώσει (en brōsei, “in meat”) and ἐν πόσει (en posei, “in drink”) cover dietary rules, which were a major issue in the early church as different groups debated what was acceptable.

Why Colossians 2:16 matters

• Colossians 2:16 helps clear up confusion about whether Christians must follow Jewish dietary laws or observe certain religious festivals to be accepted by God.
• The verse emphasizes that faith in Christ, not ritual observance, is the basis for belonging to God’s people, which was a key issue for early Christians navigating different backgrounds.
• This statement connects to the wider passage, where Paul explains that Christ’s work is complete and believers are not under obligation to keep old ceremonial laws as a way to prove their faith.