We’ve spent weeks exposing the lies that subtly displace Jesus. Legalism adds rules. Mysticism adds experiences. This week, we turn to something that sounds distant, maybe even medieval: asceticism. But it’s closer to home than we think. It’s the instinct that says, “if I just deny enough, restrict enough, be hard enough on myself, I’ll finally become serious in God’s eyes.” In Colossians 2:20-23, Paul brings the whole argument to a sharp and final edge. He exposes the exhaustion behind self-made spirituality and asks a piercing question: why are you still trying to add one more thing to what Christ has already finished? In the end, we’re left with a decision: keep managing our souls by sheer effort or step into the freedom the cross already secured.

This week’s worship guide