This week Philippians 3: 1-11
Video session
#5 https://www.rightnowmedia.org/Content/Series/368582
Paul reviewed the basics with the
Philippians. The Bible and worship protect us and are our safeguards
morally and theologically.
Jo Saxton explained that the Judaizers
were Jewish Christians who wrongly believed that Gentiles must follow
Old Testament Jewish laws, like circumcision. She talked about the
real dogs of the city, and how they wandered around in packs
devouring scraps. This is the analogy Paul used to compare to the the
Judaizers. Jo reminds us that Jesus went to the cross to save
humanity because we couldn't do it ourselves. We couldn't do it
through works. If circumcision helped why did Jesus die?
Paul criticized the Judaizers because
they looked at Christianity backwards – thinking that what they DID
(like circumcision) made them believers instead of the free gift of
grace given by Christ. What believers do is a RESULT of faith, not a
prerequisite to faith. In the video, Jo reminded us that we don't
need to add on “things that 'real' Christians do.” No Christian
should add anything to Christ's offer of salvation by grace through
faith.
Paul listed his credentials:
birthplace, nationality, inheritance, activity etc. Paul considered
every human gain as filth, trash, its so far removed from the
salvation and transformation he's received. All he wants is Jesus.
Credentials, accomplishments, or reputation cannot earn salvation.
Salvation comes only through faith in Christ.
- Jo explained that the Judaizers were trying to add to the gospel by creating a list of requirements for people to be saved. What are some modern examples of people adding to the gospel message? Why can it sometimes be tempting for us to believe those things are necessary for salvation?
- Paul recognized the greater purpose of his life. He realized that knowing Jesus was greater than anything he could gain on earth – no social status, income bracket, or promotion could compare. He also hoped in the future resurrection of his body when Jesus returns. Instead of setting his eyes on the world around him, he chose to look to Jesus. What does Paul say about the gains he's experienced in his life?
- Paul says what he's gained in life is garbage, or rubbish. The Greek word is skabala, meaning something so unwanted and worthless that it's thrown away, ad it's only used this once in the New Testament. It carries almost offensive connotation as it can also refer to human waste. What stands out to you about Paul comparing everything he's gained in life to garbage?
- Read John 6:38-40; Thessalonians 4:16; 1 Corinthians 15:12-23. What can we learn about the resurrection from these passages. When will it happen? Who will raise the dead?
- Our hope as Christians rests on Jesus. He rose from death first, signaling that his followers will one day do the same. In what ways does knowing about the resurrection of the dead shape the way you think about Jesus's resurrection?
