20If you died with Christ to the elemental powers of the world, why do you submit to regulations as if you were still living in the world? 21“Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!” 22These are all things destined to perish with use; they accord with human precepts and teachings.^q 23While they have a semblance of wisdom in rigor of devotion and self-abasement [and] severity to the body, they are of no value against gratification of the flesh.

Mystical Death and Resurrection.^* 1If then you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.^a 2Think of what is above, not of what is on earth. 3For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.^b 4When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory.