Philippians 3:1–6 | Resources
Discussion Questions
What do you think it means/looks like to “rejoice in the Lord?” Why is this of such high importance to Paul that he would write it again to this church?
Who do you think Paul is referring to when he says, “watch out for the dogs, evil workers, those that mutilate the flesh” in verse 2?
What forms of legalism or false gospels do you think exist today that we must watch out for?
According to verse 3, what defines a Christ-follower? Briefly define each term in your own words.
Is there anything that you have done that merits your salvation? What, then, does bring us salvation?
In light of our text/sermon, what would it look like to obey?
Memory Verse
“For we are the circumcision, the ones who worship by the Spirit of God, boast in Christ Jesus, and do not put confidence in the flesh.” Philippians 3:3 (CSB)
Devotional
In our faith journey, it’s easy to fall into the trap of legalistic righteousness, relying on our works or heritage for our standing with God. The Apostle Paul, in Philippians 3:1-6, provides a potent antidote to such thinking.
Paul’s warning is regarding “the dogs” and “evil workers” who “mutilate the flesh.” To the average Jew, these descriptors were commonly used to describe the Gentiles, whom the Jews regarded as unclean and with contempt. But Paul is applying these terms to Judaizers, fellow Jews who were perverting Paul’s gospel of grace through faith into a legalistic, works-based religion. In short, the Judaizers argued that one must follow Jewish law and tradition before becoming a Christian. This started with requiring circumcision.
To drive home his point, Paul cites his own Jewish qualification, and despite his impeccable religious credentials, Paul calls these personal achievements “fleshly confidence” and ultimately worthless for true righteousness.
He challenges us to put our confidence not in our actions or heritage but in Christ alone. In doing so, he highlights that it’s not about what we’ve done but what Christ has done for us.
This is a crucial lesson for every believer. Our achievements, no matter how significant in human terms, do not earn us God’s favor. The basis of our righteousness is faith in Christ, not our works. May we rejoice in the Lord, serving God by His Spirit, boasting in Christ Jesus, and placing no confidence in the flesh.
So today, let’s look away from ourselves, our works, and our heritage and look to Christ, the only source of our righteousness. Through His grace alone, we are accepted, loved, and called to serve.