In addressing the pressures faced by Christians in Colossae, Paul warns against a philosophy that disparaged the joyous observance of the Sabbath and holy days. He instructs the Colossians to let no one judge them with regard to eating, drinking, or observing the weekly and annual Sabbaths. This ascetic society around them looked down on their feasting, which Paul counters by emphasizing that such observances should not be diminished by empty deceit or vain philosophies that rob them of their spiritual riches.

In the discussion of spiritual practices among early Christians, particular attention is given to the observance of days, months, seasons, and years. The Colossians were observing festivals, new moons, and Sabbaths, engaging in eating, drinking, and rejoicing during these times. However, they faced criticism from ascetic Gnostic Jewish-based heretics for their celebratory manner, which contrasted with the ascetic views imposed upon them. These occasions, described as a shadow of things to come, hold symbolic value, serving as reminders and sources of instruction about the basic truths of God's plan across past, present, and future. Members are urged not to allow outsiders to judge or criticize them for keeping these days, but rather to look to Christ to determine the proper way to observe them, fostering unity among God's people through commanded assemblies. In addressing the Galatians, a concern arises regarding their return to former practices tied to the elements of the world, which are described as weak and beggarly. These elements are not aligned with God's law, which is a law of liberty, but rather with pagan practices involving the observation of times through divination and superstition, such as reading omens or marking lucky days. Such observances, linked to idolatrous feasts and celebrations like those dedicated to Greek gods or specific biannual and quadrennial events, are distinct from God's holy days. Though God's holy days are established by the movements of heavenly bodies, they do not encompass the combination of days, months, times, and years as practiced in pagan rituals. The Galatians are cautioned against turning back to these former pagan observations, which stand in opposition to the truth of God.

In addressing the practices of certain groups within the early church, Paul highlights a significant concern in Galatians 4 regarding their observance of days, months, times, and years. He refers to these observances as the weak and beggarly elements of the world, suggesting a connection to influences that detract from the true essence of faith. Paul's strong language indicates his disapproval of such practices, viewing them as a departure from the spiritual path intended for believers, and associating them with elements that do not align with the grace and truth offered through faith in Jesus Christ.