Happy Thursday! Today we will continue our reading in Philippians chapter three (3) where Paul gives a warning to the church and as verse 4 prepares us for what we will read tomorrow and next week. Join me as we dig into the verses.

Bible verse: Philippians 3:2-4 NLT

“² Watch out for those dogs, those people who do evil, those mutilators who say you must be circumcised to be saved. ³ 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, ⁴ 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!”

A Little History

The dogs that Apostle Paul referenced here were the Judaizers who added works of the Old Testament law to Christianity. In the Old Testament physical circumcision was a sign of a covenant relationship and spiritual circumcision of the heart (Deuteronomy 30:6). The Judaziers of that time confused many converts with the belief that circumcision was necessary for salvation and Christian living, which is not the case. While they did not omit faith they added works of the flesh – the human act of circumcision as being necessary for being saved.

Reflection

Apostle Paul is not only warning the church not to add requirements to salvation, but to also be mindful of those who add requirements to salvation. Apostle Paul is emphasizing that we should not have confidence in the flesh or acts/works, but to worship by the Spirit of God and glorify Christ Jesus alone.

There have been many times in my life where I’ve been told that I must do this and that or can’t do this or that in order to be saved, but because of Jesus Christ salvation is made available to everyone circumcised or uncircumcised, without degrees in theology and those with, those who have high status and especially those without it, and anyone from any background Jews and Gentiles.

Sisters and brothers, in a world that destroys and builds confidence let us put our full faith and confidence in Christ Jesus alone. He came so that we all can be saved. He came to fulfill the laws of the Old Testament so that through Him – the High Priest, the perfect Sacrifice, etc., all our sins would be forgiven and we can be reconciled to God – have an authentic relationship and a changed heart.

Have you given your life to Christ or want to recommit your life to accepting Christ Jesus as your Lord and Savior? I want to give you an opportunity to receive or recommit your life to Christ today.

The Bible states:

• “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23)

• “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
• In Romans 10:9-10 it states that, “if you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”

• “For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’” (Romans 10:13)

If you believe that, then pray: Father God, I come to you today with my whole heart, realizing that I have sinned and have fallen short. I repent of my sins and confess with my mouth that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He is Lord and died on the cross for my sins. I believe you raised him from the dead. Lord, Jesus come into my heart and live within me. I receive by faith You as my personal Lord and Savior, I receive your Holy Spirit to comfort and guide me in obedience to Your will. Lord Jesus, thank you for saving me. Amen!

If you prayed this prayer for the first time, make sure you get connected with a Bible believing church who will encourage and disciple you in the faith. Also, if you have time, please send us an email and let us know – contactus@maryewhiteministries.com we would love to keep praying for you and encourage you on this journey.

Prayer

Father God thank you for another week and for the opportunity to serve you. You are so gracious and we are entirely grateful for your son Jesus who came and died so that our sins could be forgiven and so that we can be reconciled to You. We are grateful for the Holy Spirit which continues to live and work within us. Continue to transform us, change our hearts and humble us to be obedient to Your will for our lives. Lord, we pray for believers and non-believers around the world and ask that you make your presence known in their lives. Heal our minds, our homes, our relationships, and our nation. Heal the world. Open opportunities for more hearts to be changed, for Christians to be authentic and great witnesses of who you are in the world. In Jesus name, amen.

——–

PRAYER REQUEST
Do you have a prayer request? We would love to pray for you. Send your prayer request to: contactus@maryewhiteministries.com

Bible Reference: http://www.biblegateway.com

Copyright ©️ 2022 Mary E. White Ministries, all rights reserved.