September 19, 2022

Philippians 3:1-9 (HCSB)
Knowing Christ
Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write to you again about this is no trouble for me and is a protection for you. 2 Watch out for “dogs,” watch out for evil workers, watch out for those who mutilate the flesh. 3 For we are the circumcision, the ones who serve by the Spirit of God, boast in Christ Jesus, and do not put confidence in the flesh— 4 although I once also had confidence in the flesh. If anyone else thinks he has grounds for confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised the eighth day; of the nation of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew born of Hebrews; regarding the law, a Pharisee; 6 regarding zeal, persecuting the church; regarding the righteousness that is in the law, blameless. 7 But everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ. 8 More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of Him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them filth, so that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own from the law, but one that is through faith in Christ —the righteousness from God based on faith.

Glynda Steele
In these verses Paul is warning us about the “dogs”, those who say that we have to add something else to our faith in Jesus Christ. Things that make us stand out or look more important to others. I have been involved and served in church pretty much my entire life. I have taught Sunday School, served on committees, led Bible studies and more during my 60+ years. But all of these things are worthless when compared to my personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Salvation is a gift given to me freely from God and can only be received through faith. I can’t depend on my parents, my association with a church, or just being a good person to make me right with God. My service and accomplishments can’t earn God’s love and acceptance. Salvation comes only through faith in Jesus Christ. Are you walking by faith or are you still trying to earn your salvation?