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Philippians 3:18: Enemies of the Cross of Christ


Philippians 3:18
[18] For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. (ESV)

Paul was passionate about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He literally gave his life defending it. He was gravely concerned that those who had heard the message of the Gospel stay as strong as he was in defending it's truth. In this chapter he has been warning the believers in Philippi about the Judaizers whose false teaching was a Gospel of works, not the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which is by grace.

Paul reminds the Philippians that he his warning is not a new one. He has told them often, and even now with tears he warns them of these enemies of the cross of Christ. I want to actually focus on that last phrase because it is very significant. Those who preach a Gospel of works are not described as "members in good standing," "deacons," or "faithful givers." They are called enemies of the cross of Christ.

I cannot stress enough the gravity of what Paul is saying here. In today's churches there are people who have become members and even leaders and teachers. They subscribe to a Gospel of works. They give their tithes, do some good deeds, and faithfully attend their local church. Yet, they refuse to confess their sin and accept Jesus Christ as Savior. Friends, these are enemies of the cross of Christ.

If works were a means to salvation then the cross is not a place of forgiveness and salvation. Rather, it is the most tragic example of a God who is an ogre, killing his son for no reason whatsoever. If you reject the biblical message of the cross, you are an enemy of the cross of Christ, whether you intend to be or not.

If you have heard the message of the Gospel of Christ but have rejected it, you need to repent and believe on the Lord Jesus. Do not live as an enemy of the cross of Christ.

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