Philippians 3:2-3, 18-19 ESV
Look out for the dogs, look out for the evildoers, look out for those who mutilate the flesh. For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh—
For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.
There is a fine line between legalism and licentiousness. At first glance they may seem to be polar opposites, but the truth is they both focus on the earthly. They both put glory in the flesh. For many, legalism seems safe. The endless establishment of rules for life appear to protect us against sin. They appear to hedge up our way to keep us from the pollution of society around us. But that's where the lie hides.
Do we really believe that Puritans didn't struggle with lust because they didn't have television, and there were no young women running around in bikinis or skimpy clothing? Legalism allows for double standards because it focuses on external rules rather than the condition of the heart and the focus of our thoughts. Legalism sets us up for failure because it provides a false sense of safety.
In verse 8 of this chapter Paul writes of his legalistic background and his outstanding accomplishments therein, "I count it rubbish." Knowing Christ, not keeping rules, is the new goal of his life. Paul understood that his righteousness was in Christ, not in his lifestyle, his commitment, nor his accomplishments.
It makes me wonder how much of my own energy has been directed toward human accomplishment rather than simply knowing Jesus. My degrees are nothing. My accolades are meaningless. What matters is knowing Jesus. And so the Apostle challenges us with these words:
Philippians 3:17 ESV
Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us.
Because it is our "Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself." (Philippians 3:20-21 ESV)
Father, forgive me for the amount of time and energy I have too often given to things that don't matter. Today my I rest in your grace, fix my eyes on Jesus and passionately follow him by faith.
By His grace,
Rick Weinert
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