“But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ...” (Phil 3.7-8).
After his experience on the road to Damascus, Paul gladly gave up all the benefits and privileges that came from being who he was. King Manasseh may be the only other biblical figure who turned his life around as completely as Paul; however, there is no doubt that Paul had a much greater influence. If you feel like you are too far gone to receive God's grace, remember Manasseh and Paul.
Greek scholars like to point out the vulgarity of the word translated “rubbish” in our text. Paul uses a word most of us would not dare say in our own language (it has been tamed in translation for that very reason) to describe how worthless his past life was compared to the life he found in Christ. Whatever it is we think we are gaining in the world, it is not worth sacrificing “the surpassing worth of knowing Christ.” Many earthly endeavors are fine, and do not stand in the way of service to God. But those that do must be “counted as loss for the sake of Christ.” There are some things we just need to count as "rubbish" if we want to gain Christ.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
We Are The Circumcision
“For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh” (Phil 3.3).
In this passage Paul offered helpful words to the Philippian brethren who faced ridicule at hands of Jewish Christians demanding the keeping of Old Law practices. These Jews claimed to be the covenant people of God, and taught that all who wished to have this relationship must follow the Judaic system as well as Christ. In a short statement Paul puts this idea to rest. He said, “We are the circumcision...put no confidence in the flesh.”
The new covenant was not focused on fleshly marks, but on the circumcision made without hands within the heart. Paul connects this circumcision of the heart to baptism in Col 2.11-15. Those who subjected themselves to this covenant practice could rightfully be considered God’s covenant people. They need not feel intimidated by the empty claims of others. As long as we have fulfilled the teachings of Scripture we must not feel intimidated by those who demand more of us today either. They are simply modern day Judaizers, attempting undermine our faith. Such individuals are the “dogs” Paul referred to in Philippians 3.2. Keep moving forward glorying “in Christ Jesus,” and nothing else.
In this passage Paul offered helpful words to the Philippian brethren who faced ridicule at hands of Jewish Christians demanding the keeping of Old Law practices. These Jews claimed to be the covenant people of God, and taught that all who wished to have this relationship must follow the Judaic system as well as Christ. In a short statement Paul puts this idea to rest. He said, “We are the circumcision...put no confidence in the flesh.”
The new covenant was not focused on fleshly marks, but on the circumcision made without hands within the heart. Paul connects this circumcision of the heart to baptism in Col 2.11-15. Those who subjected themselves to this covenant practice could rightfully be considered God’s covenant people. They need not feel intimidated by the empty claims of others. As long as we have fulfilled the teachings of Scripture we must not feel intimidated by those who demand more of us today either. They are simply modern day Judaizers, attempting undermine our faith. Such individuals are the “dogs” Paul referred to in Philippians 3.2. Keep moving forward glorying “in Christ Jesus,” and nothing else.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Look Out For Dogs
“Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord, to write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you. Look out for dogs, look out for the evildoers, look out for those who mutilate the flesh” (Phil 3.1-2).
Sadly, there are always people who stand in the way of kingdom progress. In Paul’s day, the Judaizing teachers had a substantial influence on both Jewish and Gentile converts. The destruction caused by their doctrine was enough to cause Paul to write about them on numerous occasions, this passage being one example. These men tried to destroy Paul’s reputation and the work he was accomplishing for the Lord. If we want growth to continue we must look out for individuals who share similar traits with the “dogs” Paul referred to. These individuals are more interested in ruining reputations, than finding and teaching truth. To borrow the words of Jesus, They will “travel across sea and land to make a single proselyte” (Mt 23.15). They want to win people to their side so they can, “boast in [their] flesh” (Gal 6.13). They believe the ends justify the means. Therefore, they will falsely accuse (as they did Jesus, and Stephen), judge motives, and speak evil of another without full knowledge of the situation. Paul dealt with these problems often during his ministry.
On the other hand, those who facilitate growth are “eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace,” not destroy it. Of course, this doesn’t mean division will never occur. Certainly some will depart, and we must be careful to handle these situations properly, but we shouldn’t actively seek out division as if we want it to happen. “Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way...” (Eph 4.15). The truth will offend some, even when it is spoken in love, because people love “the darkness rather than the light” (Jn 3.19). The truth does not need to be barked, it is actually more powerful when spoken in love.
Sadly, there are always people who stand in the way of kingdom progress. In Paul’s day, the Judaizing teachers had a substantial influence on both Jewish and Gentile converts. The destruction caused by their doctrine was enough to cause Paul to write about them on numerous occasions, this passage being one example. These men tried to destroy Paul’s reputation and the work he was accomplishing for the Lord. If we want growth to continue we must look out for individuals who share similar traits with the “dogs” Paul referred to. These individuals are more interested in ruining reputations, than finding and teaching truth. To borrow the words of Jesus, They will “travel across sea and land to make a single proselyte” (Mt 23.15). They want to win people to their side so they can, “boast in [their] flesh” (Gal 6.13). They believe the ends justify the means. Therefore, they will falsely accuse (as they did Jesus, and Stephen), judge motives, and speak evil of another without full knowledge of the situation. Paul dealt with these problems often during his ministry.
On the other hand, those who facilitate growth are “eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace,” not destroy it. Of course, this doesn’t mean division will never occur. Certainly some will depart, and we must be careful to handle these situations properly, but we shouldn’t actively seek out division as if we want it to happen. “Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way...” (Eph 4.15). The truth will offend some, even when it is spoken in love, because people love “the darkness rather than the light” (Jn 3.19). The truth does not need to be barked, it is actually more powerful when spoken in love.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Work Out Your Own Salvation
“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Phil 2.12-13)
It is not too surprising to us when our children follow our rules when we are looking directly at them. They have learned that disobedience in the presence of mom and dad is a bad idea. A better way to measure a child’s loyalty to their parents is to observe their behavior when they are not around. Even better, how do they respect their parent’s rule when they think no one else is watching? Paul’s exhortation to the brethren in Philippi is to be obedient whether he or others are watching or not. Salvation is a personal endeavor. Working out our own salvation with fear and trembling, means we have a personal respect for the power of God, and faith that he can deliver us from our sins. It means that I am willing to follow God’s plan whether someone is watching or not. It is a commitment to allow God’s will to work in my life “for his good pleasure.”
It is not too surprising to us when our children follow our rules when we are looking directly at them. They have learned that disobedience in the presence of mom and dad is a bad idea. A better way to measure a child’s loyalty to their parents is to observe their behavior when they are not around. Even better, how do they respect their parent’s rule when they think no one else is watching? Paul’s exhortation to the brethren in Philippi is to be obedient whether he or others are watching or not. Salvation is a personal endeavor. Working out our own salvation with fear and trembling, means we have a personal respect for the power of God, and faith that he can deliver us from our sins. It means that I am willing to follow God’s plan whether someone is watching or not. It is a commitment to allow God’s will to work in my life “for his good pleasure.”
Friday, February 26, 2010
Do All Things Without Grumbling
“Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life...” (Phil 2.14-16).
These are the kinds of verses that many of us would prefer to skip over. It is natural for us to begin self-justification as soon as we read words like these. Sometimes this is because statements such as these have been misapplied. In context, pursuing the commandments of God is under consideration. I don’t suggest you complain about your boss’ managing style, or your teacher’s difficult tests (poor attitudes are never good), but I also believe it has little to do with Phil 2.14-15.
Keep in mind the preceding verses (Vs 12-13), which discuss obedience to God, and seeking to please him. In our obedience to God’s will we should “do all things without grumbling or questioning...” The reason I feel so sure about explaining the passages in this way has much to do with the concluding phrase in the quote above. Rather than complaining and grumbling, we are to shine as lights to the world, “holding fast the word of life.” Paul says that in the day of Christ he will be proud of the Philippian brethren who accomplish this. My guess is that he will be proud of everyone else who holds fast to God’s word, without complaining.
These are the kinds of verses that many of us would prefer to skip over. It is natural for us to begin self-justification as soon as we read words like these. Sometimes this is because statements such as these have been misapplied. In context, pursuing the commandments of God is under consideration. I don’t suggest you complain about your boss’ managing style, or your teacher’s difficult tests (poor attitudes are never good), but I also believe it has little to do with Phil 2.14-15.
Keep in mind the preceding verses (Vs 12-13), which discuss obedience to God, and seeking to please him. In our obedience to God’s will we should “do all things without grumbling or questioning...” The reason I feel so sure about explaining the passages in this way has much to do with the concluding phrase in the quote above. Rather than complaining and grumbling, we are to shine as lights to the world, “holding fast the word of life.” Paul says that in the day of Christ he will be proud of the Philippian brethren who accomplish this. My guess is that he will be proud of everyone else who holds fast to God’s word, without complaining.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Taking A Back Seat
“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also the interests of others. Having this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus...” (Phil 2.3-5).
Most people in the world are taught or conditioned to look out for number one. Even acts that appear selfless are sometimes just a means to an end for one's personal gain. But when we die to ourselves and put on Christ (Rom 6.3-4), number one changes from myself to Christ. When our focus is on Christ, we will be more focused on what is best for one another. “Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “the reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me” (Rom 15.2-3). One of the aspects of the peace of God centers around the fellowship his people share. There is nothing the world can offer which equals the relationships found between Christians living with the Spirit of Christ within them.
Most people in the world are taught or conditioned to look out for number one. Even acts that appear selfless are sometimes just a means to an end for one's personal gain. But when we die to ourselves and put on Christ (Rom 6.3-4), number one changes from myself to Christ. When our focus is on Christ, we will be more focused on what is best for one another. “Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “the reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me” (Rom 15.2-3). One of the aspects of the peace of God centers around the fellowship his people share. There is nothing the world can offer which equals the relationships found between Christians living with the Spirit of Christ within them.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Christianity: Money Matters
Debt is a significant problem in the United States. The average credit card balance per household in 2001 was $7,500. By all implications things have been getting worse over the last five years. The “buy now and pay later” concept can be valuable if used wisely; however, too many people let their debt get out of control. Unfortunately, too many Christians let their debt get out of control.
Although it may be necessary to occasionally take on debt, it is not a good habit. The Bible talks about problems associated with accumulating too much debt. Solomon said, “The rich ruleth over the poor; And the borrower is servant to the lender” (Proverbs 22:7 ASV). The Bible does not lack in financial advice. In fact, finances come up repeatedly throughout scripture. Jesus himself often dealt with such issues, or included them in his parables (Matthew 6:19-21; 18:21ff; Luke 12:13-21; 18:18-30). Paul reveals that money issues are a problem for Christians too. He told Timothy that many had been lead astray from the faith because of their attitude toward earthly wealth (1Tim 6:6-10, 17-19)
Debt, if we allow it, will rule our lives. There are people in our country that work hours of overtime to pay for their oversized homes, fancy new cars, and dream vacations. As a result, little time is left for family, friends, and most importantly– God. Jesus predicted that this would happen. Remember the parable of the sower? Some seed is sown among the thorns, it grows up, and is choked out by the cares of the world, deceitfulness of riches, and desires for other things (Mark 4:18-19). This may be the biggest problem among Christians today.
Please do not misunderstand my point. There is nothing wrong with buying a home, a car, and or saving for a nice vacation. I hope to do all of these things at some point in my life, must of us do. The problem is, too many people, Christians included, are forced to give all of their servitude to their lenders because of the poor financial decisions made on a daily basis. Solomon’s words of wisdom, “the borrower is servant to the lender,” must be considered before we begin indiscriminately swiping plastic to meet our hearts’ desires. Consider Paul’s words in Romans 13:7-8:
Render to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. Owe no man anything, save to love one another: for he that loveth his neighbor hath fulfilled the law. (Romans 13:7-8 ASV)
We better be careful about debt, because Christians have the responsibility to pay what is owed. Whether it is paying taxes to our country or paying respect to our nation’s leader, Christians must not hold back what is owed to another. Christians should avoid bad debt, and certainly bankruptcy, at all cost. The first step, of course, is enacting responsible spending habits. We are ambassadors for Christ, and as such we must do our best to prove that we are trustworthy and honorable.
Second, we need to stop worrying about how rich we look. The desire to appear affluent has contributed to the debt troubles of countless individuals. Sadly, this longing to radiate a wealthy aura pervades our society. In truth, such people are slaves to their “wealthy” behavior. Solomon strongly addressed this issue:
There is one who makes himself rich, yet has nothing; And one who makes himself poor, yet has great riches.” (Proverbs 13:7 NKJV), and “He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: He that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich” (Proverbs 21:17 ASV).
Christians need to avoid this want for a moneyed appearance. It shows an overemphasis on the temporal and a lack of concern for the eternal. Paul is clear that the love of money is the basis of all sorts of evil. Greed often enslaves people to their debts and alleviates their sense of spiritual obligation. It is sad when we feel compelled to place our material duties above our spiritual duties. Do not let debt put you in that position.
For most of us, debt is incurred when we purchase the “wants,” rather than the “needs” of life. Giving up a few wants is a small price to pay to help ensure undivided devotion to the Lord. Would you not agree? We need to live within our means, and discard the tendency to “put it on the card.” Not only does bad debt leave us in spiritual poverty, it often results in physical privation. Proverbs states, “Better is he that is lightly esteemed, and hath a servant, Than he that honoreth himself, and lacketh bread” (Proverbs 12:9 ASV). What’s the point? People that look rich rarely are.
The devil works in various ways to distract us from our spiritual service.
Those who enslave themselves to their monthly bills grant the devil success in his mission to cark God’s people with worldly diversions. It is impossible for us to be a living sacrifice to God when we are working ourselves to death to pay off outrageous debts (Romans 12:1).
I like what Thomas J. Stanley, Ph.D. wrote in his book The Millionaire Mind, “I taught my sons and daughters that money is not their god. You control it...not let it control you.” We cannot afford to become slaves to debt, because we owe our service to God. We must be slaves of righteousness (Romans 6:18). Remember, “No one can serve two masters” (Matthew 6:24). If you let debt become your master, it will cost you eternal life– that is a debt you can never repay.
Although it may be necessary to occasionally take on debt, it is not a good habit. The Bible talks about problems associated with accumulating too much debt. Solomon said, “The rich ruleth over the poor; And the borrower is servant to the lender” (Proverbs 22:7 ASV). The Bible does not lack in financial advice. In fact, finances come up repeatedly throughout scripture. Jesus himself often dealt with such issues, or included them in his parables (Matthew 6:19-21; 18:21ff; Luke 12:13-21; 18:18-30). Paul reveals that money issues are a problem for Christians too. He told Timothy that many had been lead astray from the faith because of their attitude toward earthly wealth (1Tim 6:6-10, 17-19)
Debt, if we allow it, will rule our lives. There are people in our country that work hours of overtime to pay for their oversized homes, fancy new cars, and dream vacations. As a result, little time is left for family, friends, and most importantly– God. Jesus predicted that this would happen. Remember the parable of the sower? Some seed is sown among the thorns, it grows up, and is choked out by the cares of the world, deceitfulness of riches, and desires for other things (Mark 4:18-19). This may be the biggest problem among Christians today.
Please do not misunderstand my point. There is nothing wrong with buying a home, a car, and or saving for a nice vacation. I hope to do all of these things at some point in my life, must of us do. The problem is, too many people, Christians included, are forced to give all of their servitude to their lenders because of the poor financial decisions made on a daily basis. Solomon’s words of wisdom, “the borrower is servant to the lender,” must be considered before we begin indiscriminately swiping plastic to meet our hearts’ desires. Consider Paul’s words in Romans 13:7-8:
Render to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. Owe no man anything, save to love one another: for he that loveth his neighbor hath fulfilled the law. (Romans 13:7-8 ASV)
We better be careful about debt, because Christians have the responsibility to pay what is owed. Whether it is paying taxes to our country or paying respect to our nation’s leader, Christians must not hold back what is owed to another. Christians should avoid bad debt, and certainly bankruptcy, at all cost. The first step, of course, is enacting responsible spending habits. We are ambassadors for Christ, and as such we must do our best to prove that we are trustworthy and honorable.
Second, we need to stop worrying about how rich we look. The desire to appear affluent has contributed to the debt troubles of countless individuals. Sadly, this longing to radiate a wealthy aura pervades our society. In truth, such people are slaves to their “wealthy” behavior. Solomon strongly addressed this issue:
There is one who makes himself rich, yet has nothing; And one who makes himself poor, yet has great riches.” (Proverbs 13:7 NKJV), and “He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: He that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich” (Proverbs 21:17 ASV).
Christians need to avoid this want for a moneyed appearance. It shows an overemphasis on the temporal and a lack of concern for the eternal. Paul is clear that the love of money is the basis of all sorts of evil. Greed often enslaves people to their debts and alleviates their sense of spiritual obligation. It is sad when we feel compelled to place our material duties above our spiritual duties. Do not let debt put you in that position.
For most of us, debt is incurred when we purchase the “wants,” rather than the “needs” of life. Giving up a few wants is a small price to pay to help ensure undivided devotion to the Lord. Would you not agree? We need to live within our means, and discard the tendency to “put it on the card.” Not only does bad debt leave us in spiritual poverty, it often results in physical privation. Proverbs states, “Better is he that is lightly esteemed, and hath a servant, Than he that honoreth himself, and lacketh bread” (Proverbs 12:9 ASV). What’s the point? People that look rich rarely are.
The devil works in various ways to distract us from our spiritual service.
Those who enslave themselves to their monthly bills grant the devil success in his mission to cark God’s people with worldly diversions. It is impossible for us to be a living sacrifice to God when we are working ourselves to death to pay off outrageous debts (Romans 12:1).
I like what Thomas J. Stanley, Ph.D. wrote in his book The Millionaire Mind, “I taught my sons and daughters that money is not their god. You control it...not let it control you.” We cannot afford to become slaves to debt, because we owe our service to God. We must be slaves of righteousness (Romans 6:18). Remember, “No one can serve two masters” (Matthew 6:24). If you let debt become your master, it will cost you eternal life– that is a debt you can never repay.
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