The Elements of the World

2018-05-05

The word for “elements” in the Bible should be familiar to anyone who took remedial chemistry courses. The elements are simple substances that cannot be broken down by chemical means. The Greek word is στοιχεῖον, which we should remind us of “stoichiometry.” The word is also translated “rudiments” and “principles.”

This word is also used in the Bible: Galatians 4:3, 9; Colossians 2:8, 20; Hebrews 5:12; 2 Peter 3:10, 12. Here are some observations:

  1. The current world system consists of elements. This is the normal use of chemical elements... and they “shall melt with fervent heat” (2 Peter 3:10, 12). The elements are temporary, all to be destroyed.
  2. The traditions of men are rudiments of the world. They are things that false prophets use to supplant the truth of God’s Word. Such people make the law a tradition of men when they use it unlawfully, i.e. use it to qualify themselves spiritually (cf. 1 Timothy 1:8-9). The Colossians were faced with such prophets who preached “philosophy” and “vain deceit.” This sense is used in Galatians 4:3 and Colossians 2:8.
  3. A list of dos and don’ts are rudiments of the world. Very similar to the traditions of men, the things that include any dietary laws, are included here. These dos and don’ts reflect a very fleshy religion having to do with the things of this world. This is seen in Colossians 2:20-23.
  4. Principles are for the immature. The recipients of the book of Hebrews could not get past the most basic doctrines of the oracles of God and needed constant reminders of everything. They needed maturity. Hebrews 5:12
  5. The elements are weak and beggarly. If you attempt to follow the traditions of men and the list of dos and don’ts, you will find yourself wanting. Only in Christ alone can you be acceptable to God and please Him. This is seen in Galatians 4:9.

Elements are things that have to do with this world, whether they be physical elements, or traditions of human beings. They will all pass away with this world.