This passage could be referring to Jewish OT law, although the phrase “doctrines of men” in Colossians 2:22 would seem to contradict this. But even if it is referring to OT law, my point is not weakened, but strengthened. If OT laws are useless in fighting against the flesh, how much more useless are non-biblical food laws?
Men love to believe that doing hard things to their bodies will make them more holy. It is a constant temptation. The words used in Colossians 1:23 indicate a very hard, severe approach to the body. Again arguing from the greater to the lesser, if whipping oneself and starving oneself will not help with the indulgence of the flesh then how will abstaining from soda or cigarettes?
We all like to look wise and holy. Food restrictions help us keep up appearances.
Paul is not saying we cannot abstain from certain foods. He is just saying abstaining will not make you more righteous. Many will agree with this in theory. But in practice almost any food restriction easily becomes a way of looking down on that other person.
The last phrase of Colossians 1:23 is especially strong. These things, despite the appearance of holiness, wisdom, and self-control are actually of no value against the indulgence of the flesh.
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