Philippians 3:1-6. Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you. 2 Look out for the dogs, look out for the evildoers, look out for those who mutilate the flesh. 3 For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh- 4 though I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh also. If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless.
Paul says “finally,” then talks for two more chapters!
Paul is in prison, yet he tells them to rejoice. When should we rejoice?
Why is Paul’s writings protection to the believers in Philippi?
Judaizers: they added faith and works together: i.e. circumcision.
Paul says to watch out for false teachers and to not lean on your flesh. Why is trusting in our flesh so dangerous? Why is trusting in God the best thing?
Do not lean on self in anything you do or say
Extra for quiet time:
Read 2 Thessalonians 5:16-18. Are you rejoicing in the Lord EVERYDAY?
Do you have zeal for the Lord. Are you discouraged about anything today–give it to the Lord and rejoice in HIM. WE CAN HAVE JOY IN HIM, NO MATTER THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN OUR LIVES.
Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17, why is Scripture so important? How can it protect us?
How are you trusting in self? Paul says to NOT put any trust in our flesh.
What are we saying about our trust in God when we say, “I can do this or that?”