| The Epistle Of Joy Chapter 3 – Part 2

We are continuing in the epistle of Philippians.  In this series “The Epistle Of Joy Chapter 3” –

As we grow in the lord and become familiar with the does and don’ts of the Christian life, it is easy to get complacent.  We reason, “I know what the Scripture says, so why continue to study it?”  We go through the outward motions of church attendance and Christian service, often becoming overly busy with religious activities.  We think we have arrived.

Paul, in this stunning chapter, challenges us to “put no confidence” in accomplishments, reputation, and knowledge.  He states emphatically that all these are totally worthless compared to knowing Christ.

His advice to those who want to continue to grow is to keep doing what they did to get them that far: study the Word and immerse themselves in the thoughts of God.  This is God’s plan for seizing, possessing, and maintaining maturity. 

Part 2 – Paul begins in chapter 3 in verses 2 and 3 to give the church a warning about false teachers.  He calls them dogs, evil workers, and the mutilation.  Christians are those who are saved and spiritual by grace through faith and we must be on guard against a religious spirit that desires to add an improper works doctrine to our salvation.  Christians are those whose heart has been circumcised in the spirit.  Our salvation is by grace alone through faith, not by physical works.