Enemies Of The Cross Of Christ

 Philippians 3:17-19

"Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that THEY ARE ENEMIES OF THE CROSS OF CHRIST; whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame - who set their mind on earthly things. For our citizenship is in heaven,......."

Enemies of the cross of Christ. Initially, we would say, "I know who those people are; they are against Christianity. They are atheists or from other religions. They fight against christian activity in schools, government, the town square, etc."  Not so fast!

Paul is addressing the Philippian church, the saints in Christ Jesus there. Without doubt, they knew who was sympathetic to the cause. They understood, as we do, that there is a difference between those who have entered into the Lord's salvation and having not entered. It is how we allow Jesus Christ, the head of all things to the church, to build upon that entrance where the challenge lies!

Paul says to these saints:  direct your walking as followers of his example. Many walk, but not after the pattern Jesus has established/is establishing in Paul. I think we must consider that these enemies of the cross of Christ are amongst the church. They don't argue with Jesus' cross, just theirs. In fact, I have encountered few men, inside or outside the church, who are willing to argue Jesus' crucifixion. When the discussion ensues, they reject the notion- their religion has no room for it. Now they are enemies of the cross of Christ.

"And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you AS to sons:

'My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord; Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; For whom the Lord loves (His church) He chastens, and scourges every son whom He receives.'

If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten? But if you are without chastening, of which all have BECOME partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons."

Ask yourself what you think (for as a man thinks, so is he) about the application of the cross of Christ in your life. Are you an enemy or a friend to the application in your life?