Philippians 3:4-6

COMMENTS

Philippians is such a short book that I expected to complete it quickly and move on to another book.  I’m surprised—and delighted!—to find that the Lord is revealing so much to me in this already-familiar book.  Some things are new to me; some are “old” but are being taken to a new depth.  We only cover three verses today, but what an impact they’ve had on me!  I hope you find this as meaningful as I did.

NOTES

In these verses, Paul continues discrediting the salvation by works theology.  I’ve always thought he was arrogant to say that he had more reason than most to have confidence in works.  Today, I see this in a whole new light.  It’s not arrogant; it’s recognition, dare I say repentance, for the level of sin in which he existed/ participated.  Recognizing that caused me to take a new, more intense look at my own past.  If we’re honest, many of us Christians could say the same thing.  Were/are you legalistic, judgmental, proud of who you are—especially when you compare yourself with nonbelievers or even other believers?  I definitely was and, I’m sad to say, still am at times.

The Lord had me take 4b-6 and insert my own “credentials”.  I found it very sobering.  I wonder if He might have you do the same thing….

Philippians 3:4b-6 for Brenda

“If anyone thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more:  baptized at the age of 12, of strong Baptist origin; in regard to the law, attended church every time the doors opened; as for zeal, read my Bible every day and gave an offering every week so that I could check all the boxes on my offering envelope; as for legalistic righteousness, didn’t drink or smoke or cuss and looked down on those who did.”

One quick disclaimer here:  I happened to be Baptist.  I do not believe every Baptist has the same attitude—call it what it is, SIN—that I did.  Nor am I naïve enough to think that only a Baptist could have this problem.  Unfortunately, sin is universal and affects all humans of all or no denomination.

Okay, back to my commentary.  As the Lord revealed this to me, I realized that I, not Paul, was the arrogant one.  He, at least, recognized the deception and his sin.  I went happily along with mine, incorrectly categorizing him.  I’m so ashamed.

But the GOOD NEWS is that God is a forgiving God.  Now, I see the Truth.  I’ve repented and, praise His Holy Name (!), He has forgiven me.  Thank you, Jesus.

I have no other words for today.