October 10, 2024
After Paul gives shout-outs to Timothy and Epaphroditus, his brothers in the faith, he continues encouraging the church to find joy in God no matter what; simultaneously, he warns them about people who add extra requirements on top of what Jesus has already done. Circumcision was a Jewish religious requirement for belonging to the family of God; there were some branches of the church that taught that it was a necessary practice to follow Jesus.
Whatever happens, my dear brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. I never get tired of telling you these things, and I do it to safeguard your faith.
Watch out for those dogs, those people who do evil, those mutilators who say you must be circumcised to be saved. For we who worship by the Spirit of God are the ones who are truly circumcised. We rely on what Christ Jesus has done for us. We put no confidence in human effort, though I could have confidence in my own effort if anyone could. Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more!
Philippians 3:1-4
Paul’s words here indicate that he feels protective of these believers. He does not want them to forget to find joy in God or to rely on anything other than Jesus.
- Is there anything getting in the way of you finding joy today? What is it? What would it look like to choose joy today - no matter what?
- Are you ever tempted to rely more on your own effort than on Jesus and what he has done?
Practice: Spend five minutes thinking about all the gifts and grace that God has given you. Write a list of everything that comes to mind, and then say a simple prayer of gratitude.