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Philippians
Chapter 3
Theme: Warning against false teachers.
In this chapter the apostle cautions the Philippians against false teachers, whom he describes as evil men, and urges them to use him, and other faithful ministers as an example. Since these false teachers were drawing them away from Christ, and weakening their joy and glorying in Him, Paul urges them to rejoice in Christ.
Paul warns to beware of them, whom he describes as dogs and evil workers, and opposes their characters with TRUE saints. He says everything short of Christ, is in the complete opposition of the knowledge of Him, and which Paul prefers to everything.
The Apostle Cautions the Philippians against Judaizing False Teachers, and Renounces His Own Former Privileges (Philippians 3:1:11)
Philippians 3:1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. (KJV)
Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe . . . we should let that joy we have be derived from the Lord, stay firm in our mind. To write the same things to you . . . is to repeat the same truths and admonitions. Maybe he refers to the exhortations which he had given them when he was with them, on the same topics on which he is now writing to them. We may suppose that this chapter is a summary of what Paul had often taught when he was with them. To me indeed is not grievous . . . is not oppressive to Paul to repeat these advices in this manner. They might think that in the multitude of cares which he had, and in his trials in Rome, it might be too great a burden for him to bestow so much attention on their interests. But for you it is safe . . . it is good to have these things written, rather than trusted to memory.
Philippians 3:2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. (KJV)
Beware of dogs . . . Isaiah 56:10 His watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. (KJV) . . . Isaiah was warning the people against the false prophets who were attempting to comfort the people and were telling them that everything was fine instead of warning them of coming disaster. The northern kingdom had already gone into captivity because the false prophets had given them a false sense of security. God was warning the southern kingdom not to do the same thing. He was calling the false prophets "dumb dogs." They will NOT speak out. They will NOT tell it as it is. Dogs are those who are NOT declaring the full counsel of God.
We have the same grave danger in our society today. Comfort is the word of the day. We look for comfortable places to stay when we are traveling. We enjoy all the creature comforts that we can afford. The desire for comfort has carried over into the church.
Beware of evil workers . . . Judaizing teachers, who tried to pervert the Gospel. A Judaizer is one who lives and teaches according to Jewish customs.
Beware of the concision . . . meaning the Jews, the Circumcism. Paul is saying that they are no longer of the true circumcision, referring to those who were attempting to force Christians to keep the Law of Moses for salvation and sanctification.
#1. Dogs . . . are the very things the Jews called others (Mat.15:26-27).
#2. Evil workers . . . Judaizing teachers. A Judaizer is one who lives according to Jewish customs.
#3. The concision . . . the circumcision.
Philippians 3:3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. (KJV)
For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh . . . the Judaizers would follow Paul in his missionary journeys spouting falsehoods. Paul tells the Philippians we are the circumcision . . . what does Paul mean by that? He makes it very clear at the end of the Letter to the Galatians: Gal. 6:15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. (KJV)
The old circumcision is out. God is NOT looking for a just an external observance. True circumcision is of the heart. It is the new birth, a new heart attitude toward God. True circumcision is being in Christ.(Rom.2:29; Col.2:11).
And have no confidence in the flesh . . . we must not have confidence in our old nature. We must trust Christ, and Christ alone. We cannot look to ourselves for salvation, nor can we live the Christian life in our old nature. With a TRUE Christian, it must be Christ in us.
Four Facts about TRUE Christians:
#1. They are the TRUE circumcision (Rom.2:29; Gal.3:26-29).
#2. They are worshipers in the Spirit (Jn.4:24).
#3. They rejoice in Christ (Phil.3:1; 4:4; 1 Pet.1).
#4. They have no confidence in flesh, self (Phil.3:3; 2 Cor.5:16).
Philippians 3:4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: (KJV)
Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more . . . Paul was a Jew, and was a Pharisee, and if any of them had any cause to boast in outward rites and privileges of the Jews, it was Paul.
Philippians 3:5 Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; (KJV)
Circumcised the eighth day . . . the time that the law required the males to be circumcised; and we find, from Gen.17:14; that the male child, which is not circumcised the eighth day, shall be cut off from among his people. This precept was literally observed in the case of Paul.
Of the stock of Israel . . . Paul was descended from the patriarch Jacob.
Of the tribe of Benjamin . . . the favorite son of that patriarch and a tribe that did not revolt with Jeroboam (1 Ki.12:21), nor pollute the worship of God by idolatry. Paul was a Hebrew of the Hebrews, even though he was born in a heathen country, Tarsus, yet both his parents were Hebrews; nor was there ever been any strange blood mixed with that of his family.
Touching the law, a Pharisee . . . one that not only received the law and the prophets as coming from God; but Paul belonged to that sect which, of all others, was thoroughly attached to it.
Philippians 3:6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. (KJV)
Concerning zeal, persecuting the church . . . Paul gave the fullest proof of it by persecuting the Church of Christ; which was known to all his countrymen.
Touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless . . . notice that Paul does not say he was sinless or perfect; he says he was blameless. Paul does NOT claim sinless perfection (Rom.7:7). As to that plan of justification, which justification the Jews say is to be obtained only by an observance of the law, Paul had done everything so carefully from his youth up, that in this respect he was blameless. Whatever righteousness was in the law, or required by it, Paul said he had it, to such a degree, that he was blameless before God and men.
Philippians 3:7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. (KJV)
But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ . . . any credit and respect which Paul had, as being zealously attached to the law, and to the traditions of the elders, he counted loss for Christ . . . for he saw that all his acts of righteousness were nothing on which he could depend on for salvation. It was Christ crucified, that alone could profit him (and us). Paul now understood that it is impossible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sin. The ceremonial Law was repealed when Christ died on the cross!
Philippians 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, (KJV)
Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord . . . Paul counted ALL things but loss . . . not only his Jewish privileges, but all other privileges of every kind; with everything that men count valuable and on which they usually depend upon for salvation. The excellency of the knowledge of Christ . . . the superior light and blessedness which come through the Gospel of Jesus Christ; justification through His Blood, sanctification by His Spirit, and eternal glory through His merits and intercession. These are the blessings held out to us by the Gospel, that most people will not reach out and grab!
For whom I have suffered the loss of all things . . . Paul had made a deliberate choice of Christ, His cross, His poverty and His reproach . . . and for these Paul had freely sacrificed all he had from the world, and all he could expect from it.
And do count them but dung, that I may win Christ . . . dung refers to the vilest refuse, the worst excrement. The word dung shows how utterly insignificant and ineffective keeping the Law and works were in salvation. With his best worldly things Paul freely parted, judging them all loss, while he put in their place . . . Christ crucified! Christ crucified, Paul considered immeasurable, infinite gain, when compared with all the rest. There was/is NOTHING else but Christ to save the soul . . . and the Apostle Paul stands firm in his statement of this. My friend, IF the Law could have done anything, the apostle would have known it. He tried the Law, and found it vanity; he then tried the Gospel system, and found it the power of God to his salvation (Rom.1:16). By Paul’s losing all that the world calls excellent, he gained Christ, and endless salvation through him. Of the glorious influence of the Gospel, Paul was a perfect witness.
Twelve Practices of Paul that we should imitate:
1. To worship God in Spirit (Phil.3:3; Jn.4:24).
2. To rejoice in Christ (Phil.3:1,3; 4:4).
3. To have no confidence in flesh, self (Phil.3:3-8).
4. To count all things loss for Christ (Phil.3:7-8).
5. To count all things but dung, filthy muck (Phil.3:8).
6. To have no self-righteousness (Phil.3:9).
7. He wanted knowledge and wisdom of Christ (Phil.3:8,12).
8. Forgetting the past was needed (Phil.3:13).
9. He reached out for future things (Phil.3:13).
10. He pressed toward the prize (Phil.3:14).
11. He strived to be an example (Phil.3:15-19).
12. He looked for the Saviour (Phil.3:20).
Twelve Desires of TRUE Christians
1. That I may win Christ (Phil.3:8).
2. That I may be found in Him (Phil.3:9).
3. That I may have His righteousness (Phil.3:9).
4. That I may know Him (Phil.3:10).
5. That I may know His power (Phil.3:10).
6. That I may fellowship of His sufferings (Phil.3:10).
7. That I may be conformed to His death (Phil.3:10).
8. That I may be in the first resurrection (Phil.3:11-12).
9. That I may be perfect (Phil.3:12-13).
10. That I may win the prize (Phil.3:14).
11. That I may be one with all other believers (Phil.3:15-19).
12. That I may be changed in body (Phil.3:21).
Philippians 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: (KJV)
And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law . . . Paul could have boasted of the fact that he had kept the Sabbath day. But Paul now says to let no man judge you in respect of the Sabbath days (Col. 2:16). Paul was a believer in Christ, not having his own righteousness, not trusting in anything Paul had done or could do, in order to achieve his salvation.
But that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith . . . Jesus’ righteousness (1 Cor.1:30), is the justification which is received by faith through the atonement made by Christ (Rom.3:21-31; 5:1). The righteousness which is of God . . . is God's method of justifying sinners through faith in His Son.
http://www.godcannotlie.org/book_of_romans_ch.3.htm
Philippians 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; (KJV)
That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection . . . that He is the true and promised Messiah, and experience the salvation which He has purchased by His Blood. The power of his resurrection . . . in having the Body of Christ’s humiliation raised from death, and made unto His glorious body. This seems to be the only meaning of the apostle; for it is in virtue of Christ's resurrection that WE are to be raised incorruptible and immortal (1 Cor.15:42-44).
And the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death . . . this is not meant of bearing a part in the merit of Christ’s personal sufferings, but of being partaker of His sufferings in His spiritual body, whether inward or outward (Mat.20:23; Acts 9:4; Rom.8:17; 2 Cor.1:7; 4:10-11; Gal.5:24; Col.1:24; 2 Tim.2:11-12). Being made comformable unto his death . . . while made conformable to His death, not only in dying to sin (Rom.6:5-6), but in being conformed to His image in suffering (Rom.8:29), always living ready to be delivered to death for Jesus' sake upon His call. The fellowship of his sufferings . . . Christ died, not only as a victim for sin, but as a martyr to the Truth. No creature can have fellowship with Christ in His vicarious sufferings, but as a martyr to the truth, Paul wanted to imitate him. Not only in the apostle, but in the primitive Christians in general, there seems to have been a strong desire after martyrdom.
Philippians 3:11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. (KJV)
If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead . . . when Paul uses the word “if” he is not stating any doubt about his participating in the Rapture, but instead, he is affirming that he will have part in it one day with great joy. Paul knew that he would not achieve perfection in this life; so, he wanted to have full participation in the coming Rapture when he would. Do you believe in the Rapture? (Jn.14;2-3; 1 Thes.13-18; 1 Cor.15:51-52). Are you like Paul and are looking forward to it? Paul says, "It will get me into His Presence."
For the difference between the Rapture and the Second Coming, see:
http://www.hisservants.org/rapture,_second_coming_h_s.htm
Paul Presses on Toward Perfection; and Recommends His Example to Other Believers (Philippians 3:12-21)
Philippians 3:12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. (KJV)
Not as though I had already attained . . . Paul says that he has not yet received the prize; he has not yet been glorified, for he has not yet not finished his race. He still has a way to go. Verses 11 through 17 is one continued reference to the contests at the Olympic games; with which the Philippians were well acquainted.
Either were already perfect . . . Paul was not yet perfect; he has not yet been crowned, as a result of having suffered martyrdom. I really think that Paul refers to his race for the prize, when he completes this faithful conflict, that he may lay hold on that for which he might fight the good fight of faith, and lay hold on eternal life.
But I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus . . . Paul exhibits an energy that is comes from the Holy Spirit, which is far greater than any legal effort. Under the Law, Paul was willing to go to Damascus to stamp out the followers of Christ (Acts 7:58; 8:1; 9:1) . . . BUT, while under the grace-faith system, Paul will go to the end of the Earth to make followers of Christ and to witness for Him. Faith produces something awesome in a child of God. Remember that your works have absolutely NOTHING to do with your salvation. Only faith in Jesus’ work on the cross can bring you salvation.
God has only one question for the lost sinner to answer: "What will you do with Jesus who died for you?" IF you accept Him as your Saviour, you are saved by faith. IF you refuse to accept Him, everlasting destruction awaits (2 Thes.1:8-9).
Living a righteous life comes only by faith. Even your life after salvation does not build up a righteousness that has anything to do with your salvation. Your faith in Christ is a motivation for you to live for God. That is the reason Paul went on to live as he did.
Some people get the wrong idea that being saved by grace means there is no motivation for conduct and works. They think that if a person is saved by grace it must mean he just sits around, being a couch potato. That is NOT true. A TRUE saving faith is a faith that moves you. James said "...shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works" (Jam.2:18). My friend, if you SAY that you are saved, I want to see your works. If you do NOT have works, you are NOT saved! That is what Paul is saying. If you have been saved by faith you have a new life purpose, a new life-style. If your faith in Christ has not changed you, you have NOT been saved. You are still the same old man producing the same old life. Paul throws out any idea that being saved by faith means you can sit in a rocking chair and rock yourself all the way to Heaven. Faith alone saves, but the faith that saves is not alone.
Philippians 3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, (KJV)
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended . . . whatever gifts, graces or honors Paul had received from Jesus Christ, he considered everything as incomplete until he had finished his course, received his crown, and had his body raised and fashioned after Jesus’ glorious body.
But this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before . . . Paul says that he must forget all those things which are behind. He had done some horrible things, as we all have, before we come to Christ. We must forget the past! Our conduct is not regulated nor influenced by that of others. We must consider our calling, our Master, our work and our end, just as Paul did. Paul had no time to be idle. He knew eternity was at hand, and his all is at stake. Reaching forth . . . points to the strong efforts made in the race; every muscle and nerve is exerted, and putting forth every bit of his strength in running. He was running for his life. Again: Faith alone saves, but the faith that saves is not alone. We, like Paul must NOT be idle! We must do good for the Lord Jesus!
Three Parts of Forgetting the Past:
1. We cannot waste time over the past (verse 13).
2. We must reach forth to that which is before us in the race (verse 13).
3. We must press toward the finish line, the mark (verse 14), lest I be disqualified for the prize (verse 14; 1Cor.9:24).
Philippians 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (KJV)
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus . . . WHAT is the Prize? It is NOT salvation. We do NOT run for salvation. Salvation is NOT the prize. We either have salvation through Christ or we don't. We either have Christ or we don’t! We either trust Him or we don't trust Him. The only way we can have salvation is through faith in Christ. It is a gift. A gift is different from a prize. Salvation is a gift from God which must be accepted. Salvation is NOT the prize! SO . . . What is the prize? The Prize my friend, is to be caught up and be in the Presence of Christ. The high calling of God is that we are going to be in His awesome Presence. We are going to be like Him. These are things that Paul says are out in the future for him, and for us!
After receiving eternal life, Paul was out running for a prize. Christ became everything to him, and he is running a race that he might win Christ. Someday Paul is going to appear in Jesus’ Presence, along with all TRUE Christians! And we do NOT want to be ashamed! 1 John 2:28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. (KJV)
One of these days you will have to stand before the judgment seat of Christ to give an account of the way you lived your life. It would be wise if you got down on the racecourse and start living for Him, like Paul did.
Philippians 3:15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. (KJV)
Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded . . . the word perfect, is taken here in the same sense in which it is taken in (1 Cor.14:20): be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. I think it means wisdom among those who are fully instructed, adults, mature in Christian knowledge (Eph.4:13). Until we all come, unto a perfect man, to the state of adulthood in Christianity. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age (Heb.5:14), to those who are thoroughly instructed and experienced in Divine things.
If in any thing ye be otherwise minded . . . Paul says, if you have not yet entered into the full spirit and plan of the Gospel, if any of you still have lingering doubts as to Jewish ordinances, or their usefulness in Christianity, God shall reveal even this unto you.
God shall reveal even this unto you . . . God will always reveal His will to you IF you really want to be know it. Some Christians say, "If only I knew the will of God." Knowing the will of God is simply being in touch with the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a matter of drawing close to Him, and it is being willing to do His will when He shows it to you. There is no special formula for discovering the will of God . . . BUT . . . do not expect a vision or an angel or some green light to appear to show the way to go when you are troubled. Knowing the will of God comes from a daily walk with Him and being willing to be led by Him. The closer you are to Jesus, the better chance you have of staying on the right road through life, and it will be a great joy to your heart.
What is God's will in our lives? It is simply to love and obey Him and love our neighbor as ourselves . . . meaning that IF we love people, we will NEVER do ANY harm to them in any way. Any time there is a question about something . . . ask yourself: "Would Jesus do or say this?" If not . . . do NOT do or say it! Are you dedicated and devoted to God?
http://hisservants.org/devotion_h_s.htm
Philippians 3:16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. (KJV)
Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing . . . let us not lose that part of the race which we have already run, let us walk by the same rule, let us keep the finish line in view, let us mind the same thing, which is the glorious prize which is held out by God the Father through Christ Jesus to encourage us.
Paul is encouraging the Philippian believers (and us) to get out on the racetrack. He wants them, and us, to press on for the prize . . . the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:17 Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (KJV)
Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample . . . then Paul goes on to give himself as an example . . . be followers, of me. Paul says that in the things of Christ (Acts 28:31), let him be your guide, and his writings, preaching and conduct, your rule. And mark them . . . still referring to the finish line in the stadium, keep your eye steadily fixed on those who walk (live), as you have seen me do. A person has to live a very righteous life to be able to say this! Are we able to say this along with Paul? Is our lives an example to others? Really something to think about!
Philippians 3:18 (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: (KJV)
(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ . . . the Judaizing teachers continue to preach that the Law was necessary, wanting to include (add) circumcision, and other ordinances of the law, with the Gospel. Salvation is faith in Christ plus NOTHING!
These people are the enemies of the cross of Christ . . . then and NOW! Judaizers attribute justification to the Levitical sacrifices, rather than to the sacrificial death of Christ on the cross, thus they are enemies to that cross. NO ceremonies or rites of any so-called church (cult), can gain eternal life for you. Salvation is through FAITH in Christ alone, plus NOTHING!
WHO is an enemy of Christ? ALL those who refuse to believe God (1 Jn.5:10-13).
Essential doctrines are necessary for salvation. Non-essential doctrines are NOT necessary for salvation. SO . . . WHAT is the doctrine of the Gospel that is needed to save your soul? It is so simple that most people in the world pass right over it!
Jesus died on the cross to pay sin’s penalty (our penalty, because it is OUR sin, NOT Jesus’ sin). He rose again (was resurrected Acts 2:24,30,32; 3:26), and now sits on the right hand of God the Father (Heb.10:12), where He is our Advocate (1 Jn.2:1). IF you believe that Jesus took your place on the cross, and that His precious Blood (1 Pet.1:18-19) was an atonement (payment) for your sins, you are saved, you have eternal life (Jn.3:15-18,36; 1 Jn.5:10-13).
Salvation . . . is by God’s grace through faith alone (Eph.2:8-9). Salvation is faith in Christ alone . . . plus NOTHING! John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (KJV)
Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (KJV)
1 John 5:10-13 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. 11 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. 13 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. (KJV)
The vast majority of people today, consider God’s One and Only Way of salvation (JESUS) far too narrow for them. True, the gate is strait (difficult, troublesome)! Matthew 7:13-14 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: [14] Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. (KJV) . . . BUT . . . unless you enter that strait gate, and follow that narrow path, you will NOT come to life, but instead death, eternal death in Hell.
Philippians 3:19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.) (KJV)
Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.) . . . false teaching will lead only to destruction, eternal destruction, Hell.
YES! . . . . There is a HELL! . . . . . . . . http://www.judgmentcoming.org/j_c_hell_is_real.htm
This is as severe a condemnation as you can find of those who profess to be Christians. They claim to be Christian, yet they contradict their words by their lives. Their God is their belly . . . that's awful! This means that they are led by their appetites. Some professing Christians have a tremendous appetite for money. They will do most anything for the almighty dollar. Others have such an appetite for sex that it actually becomes their god. Others covet and that is the cause of much of the strife and vainglory (Phil.2:3). The main cause of it all is that they have their hearts and minds on earthly things. They live for self and self alone, and they actually glory in this. They are proud of what they should be ashamed. See, rich preachers:
http://worldlychaos.org/w_c_cults_rich_preachers.1.htm
False teachers are here described by three ungodly things:
#1. Their god is their belly . . . they do not live considering eternity. Their religion is today; to make a gain from their hypocritical godliness. They live only to eat, drink and be merry.
#2. Their glory is in their shame . . . they preach a doctrine which flatters the passions of their hearers, as they fare sumptuously every day, because of it.
#3. They mind earthly things . . . all their attention is taken up with things of the world (1 Jn.2:15). They are given over to the flesh and its lusts; they have no holiness, nor do they believe that there is or can be any communication between God and the souls of men. Their lasciviousness and uncleanness seem to be mainly intended.
As despicable as these men were, Paul’s heart was deeply pained because of them:
#1. Because they held and taught a false creed;
#2. Because they perverted many by their false teaching; and,
#3. Because they themselves were perishing because of it.
Remember, a Judaizer is one who lives according to Jewish customs.
Five Facts about False Teachers:
1. They are enemies of the cross (Phil.3:18).
2. Their end is destruction (Phil.3:19; 2 Cor.11:14-15; Heb.6:8; 2 Pet.2:20).
3. Their god is their belly (Isa.56:10-12; Eze.13:19; Phil.3:19; Rom.16:18).
4. Their glory is in their shame (Phil.3:19).
5. They mind earthly things (Mat.7:15; Phil.3:19; Rom.8:5-6; 1 Pet.3:3,13-20).
SOME BIBLE FACTS ABOUT FALSE TEACHERS
1. Jesus warned about false teachers (Matthew 7:15-17)
2. Paul warned about false teachers (Acts 20:29-30 - 2 Timothy 3:13 - 2 Timothy 4:3-4)
3. Peter warned about false teachers and said that many will follow them (2 Peter 2:1-2)
4. John warned about false teachers (1 John 2:18-20)
5. Jude warned about false teachers (Jude 3-4)
SOME BIBLE FACTS ABOUT DOCTRINE
1. The Bible is given for doctrine (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
2. We are to continue in the apostles' doctrine (Acts 2:42)
3. No false doctrine is to be allowed (1 Timothy 1:3)
4. Preachers are to give themselves to doctrine (1 Timothy 4:13)
5. Our doctrine is to be incorrupt (Titus 2:10)
6. We are to separate from false doctrine (Romans 16:17)
Philippians 3:20 For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: (KJV)
For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ . . . our city, our citizenship, our inheritance is in Heaven (1 Pet.1:3-5). The word conversation here properly means the administration, government, or form of a republic or state. It means also a republic, a city, or the inhabitants of any city or place; or a society of persons living in the same place, and under the same rules and laws.
The false Jewish teachers have no city except what is on Earth; while God’s TRUE children have a heavenly city, the New Jerusalem (Rev.21:2); and we have rights and privileges which are heavenly and eternal! Our society or fellowship is with God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit, and the spirits of just men made perfect, and the whole Church of the first-born. We have crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts (Gal. 2:20; 5:24); and regard not the body, which we know must perish, but which we are confident that we shall be raised from death into a state of eternal glory.
Philippians 3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. (KJV)
Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body . . . our vile body could be body of corruption. This means that He shall change our earthly body, He will refashion us from corrupt to incorrupt (1 Cor.15:42-44,48-54), that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious Body (1 Jn.3:2). The bodies of TRUE believers shall be raised up at the great day in the same likeness, immortality, and glory, of the glorified humanity of Christ Jesus; and be so completely changed, as to be not only capable through their immortality of eternally existing, but also of the unlimited spiritual enjoyments at the right hand of God.
According to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself . . . according to His power, by which He can bring all things under subjection to Himself. So we find that the resurrection of the body is attributed to that power which governs and subdues all things, for nothing less than the power that produced the human body at the beginning, can restore it from its lapsed and degraded state into that state of glory which it had at its creation; and make it capable of enjoying God throughout eternity. The thought of this glorious change was a subject of the highest joy and confidence among the primitive Christian, and of TRUE Christians today! New bodies: (2 Cor.5:1-10). This earth is not our permanent home! Thank You Jesus!
Philippians
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