In this part of his letter, Paul addresses the Colossian Christians, reminding them of their spiritual transformation through Christ. When he speaks of dying with Christ, he refers to the believer's symbolic death to the old ways of living, which were governed by the 'elemental spiritual forces'—a term that can mean the basic principles or rudimentary teachings of the world, often associated with legalistic or ritualistic practices. Paul challenges them to consider why they would continue to live as if they were still part of a system that Christ has freed them from.
The essence of Paul's message is about living in the freedom and new life that Jesus offers. This freedom is not about rejecting all forms of discipline or structure but about understanding that true spiritual life and growth come from a relationship with Christ, not from adhering to human-made rules. Paul encourages believers to focus on their identity in Christ, which transcends worldly systems and empowers them to live in a way that reflects their faith and new life.