Philippians 3:18
Verse
Context
Citizenship in Heaven
17Join one another in following my example, brothers, and carefully observe those who walk according to the pattern we set for you.18For as I have often told you before, and now say again even with tears: Many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.19Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and their glory is in their shame. Their minds are set on earthly things.
Sermons
C.H. Spurgeon
Zac Poonen
Erlo Stegen
Joshua Daniel
Robert Wurtz II
Ignatius of AntiochSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For many walk, etc - The Judaizing teachers continue to preach, who wish to incorporate circumcision, and other ordinances of the law, with the Gospel. They are the enemies of the cross of Christ - They rather attribute justification to the Levitical sacrifices, than to the sacrificial death of Christ; and thus they are enemies to that cross, and will not suffer persecution for its sake. They please the world, and are in no danger of reproach.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
many walk--in such a manner. Follow not evildoers, because they are "many" (Exo 23:2). Their numbers are rather a presumption against their being Christ's "little flock" (Luk 12:32). often--There is need of constant warning. weeping-- (Rom 9:2). A hard tone in speaking of the inconsistencies of professors is the very opposite of Paul's spirit, and David's (Psa 119:136), and Jeremiah's (Jer 13:17). The Lord and His apostles, at the same time, speak more strongly against empty professors (as the Pharisees), than against open scoffers. enemies of the cross of Christ--in their practice, not in doctrine (Gal 6:14; Heb 6:6; Heb 10:29).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Whose end is destruction,.... Everlasting destruction, the destruction of both body and soul in hell, Mat 10:28; and this is the end, the reward and issue of bad principles and practices; the broad roads of sin and error lead to destruction, Mat 7:13; however pleasing such ways may be to men, the end of them is eternal death; destruction and misery are in all the ways of profaneness and heresy; not only immoralities, but heresies, such as strike at the efficacy of Christ's cross, his blood, righteousness, and sacrifice, are damnable ones, and bring upon men swift destruction, Pe2 2:1; and how should it otherwise be, for there is no salvation but by the cross of Christ? and if men are enemies to that, and the efficacy of it, and the way of salvation by it, there is no more, nor any other sacrifice for sin, Heb 10:26, but a fearful looking for of judgment, and fiery indignation, Heb 10:27; and this will be the case of all barren and unfruitful professors, who are like the earth, that brings forth briers and thorns, and is nigh unto cursing, whose end is to be burned, Heb 6:8; for what will the hope of such an one, founded on his profession, though he may have got credit and reputation among men, avail, when God takes away his soul? whose god is their belly; the belly was the god of the Cyclops, they sacrificed to none but to themselves, and to the greatest of the gods, their own belly (a); as money is the covetous man's god, whom he loves, adores, and puts his confidence in, so the belly is the god of the sensualist, the epicure, and voluptuous person; he has more regard for the service of that, than for the service of God? and of this complexion were these professors; they were lovers of pleasure, more than lovers of God, Ti2 3:4; all their pretensions to religion, to Christ, and his Gospel, were only to serve themselves, their own bellies, and not the Lord Jesus Christ, and to do good to the souls of men: or their belly may be said to be their god, because they placed religion in the observance of meats and drinks, either allowed or forbidden in the law of Moses, which profited not those that were occupied therein, Heb 9:10; for the kingdom of God, the Gospel dispensation, internal religion, and the exercise of it, lies not in these things, but in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost, Rom 14:17, and whose glory is in their shame; in their evil practices committed in secret, of which it was a shame to speak; in their hidden things of dishonesty, crafty walking, and deceitful handling of the word of God, which were vile and scandalous, Co2 4:2; in corrupting the Gospel, and the churches of Christ, with their false doctrine; in observing and urging the ceremonies of the law, which were dead, and ought to be buried; and particularly circumcision in the flesh, in that part of the body which causes shame, and in this was their glory, Gal 6:13. The idol Baal Peor, and which is no other than the Priapus of the Heathens, is called by this name, Hos 9:10; so the prophets of Baal are in the Septuagint on Kg1 18:19 called the prophets, , "of that shame"; it may be the apostle may have a regard to the secret debaucheries of these persons; or because they made their belly their god, he calls it their shame in which they gloried, and which was the name given to the idols of the Gentiles: who mind earthly things. The Arabic version renders it, "who entertain earthly opinions"; and some by, "earthly things" understand the ceremonies of the law, called the elements and rudiments of the world, which these false teachers were fond of, and were very diligent to inculcate and urge the observance of; though rather worldly things, such as honour, glory, and popular applause, and wealth, and riches, are meant; for they sought their own things, and not the things of Christ; through covetousness, with feigned words, they made merchandise of men, and amassed to themselves great sums of money; and yet were greedy dogs, could never have enough, everyone looking for his gain from his quarter, Isa 56:11, and now persons of such characters as these were by no means to be followed, but such who are hereafter described, (a) Euripides.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:18 The identity of the enemies is not known; they might have been (1) Jews or Jewish Christians proud of their circumcision (as in 3:2), whose emphasis on observant Judaism contradicted the cross of Christ; (2) pseudo-believers living a worldly, immoral life (cp. 3:19); or (3) professing believers who had rejected Paul’s cross-centered view of the Good News. Christ’s crucifixion as a criminal was scandalous and offensive to many (see 1 Cor 1:23; cp. Rom 9:33; 1 Pet 2:8).
Philippians 3:18
Citizenship in Heaven
17Join one another in following my example, brothers, and carefully observe those who walk according to the pattern we set for you.18For as I have often told you before, and now say again even with tears: Many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.19Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and their glory is in their shame. Their minds are set on earthly things.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
False Professors Solemnly Warned
By C.H. Spurgeon3.4K37:43PHP 3:18This sermon by C. H. Spurgeon, titled 'False Professors Solemnly Warned,' based on Philippians 3:18-19, emphasizes the dangers of hypocrisy and false profession within the church. Spurgeon highlights the characteristics of these false professors, such as their focus on earthly things, indulgence in sinful desires, and their ultimate end in destruction. He warns of the harm they bring to the church, the division they cause, and the stumbling block they create for sincere seekers of faith. Spurgeon's message calls for self-examination, humility, and genuine faith in Christ to avoid the fate of being enemies of the cross of Christ.
Where Is Your Mind Set
By Zac Poonen1.3K58:31PHP 3:18
This sermon emphasizes the importance of wholehearted discipleship of Jesus Christ, focusing on loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind, loving one another, and loving our neighbors. It warns against being deceived by worldly distractions and urges believers to seek the kingdom of God first. The message highlights the need to prioritize heavenly things over earthly concerns, to set our minds on Christ, and to live in a way that reflects Christ's example of balance and devotion.
Take Up Your Cross Daily
By Erlo Stegen96649:18MAT 16:24LUK 9:23ROM 6:23GAL 2:20PHP 3:181TI 3:2REV 3:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of the cross in dealing with sin in our lives. He shares a story of a minister who had a life-changing encounter with God while crying out for forgiveness. The minister realized the weight of his sins and pleaded with God to deal with sin in his life. The preacher highlights the importance of carrying the cross daily and allowing it to continually work in our lives. He encourages believers to have a fresh and vibrant spiritual life, comparing it to the enticing smell of freshly baked bread that attracts people.
Matthew 10:36
By Joshua Daniel7561:00:01MAT 10:36MAT 16:24GAL 5:11PHP 3:18
This sermon emphasizes the importance of embracing the cross of Christ, highlighting the necessity of self-denial, taking up one's cross, and following Jesus. It addresses the tendency to avoid the cross, the offense it brings, and the need to prioritize spiritual matters over earthly concerns. The speaker warns against being enemies of the cross and encourages a deep commitment to following Christ despite societal pressures and temptations.
The Cross as a Sword
By Robert Wurtz II01CO 1:18GAL 3:13PHP 3:18COL 2:14Robert Wurtz II preaches about the significance of the Cross in Christianity, tracing back to Emperor Constantine's vision and the Edict of Milan declaring Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire. The sermon emphasizes how Jesus triumphed over evil through the Cross, encouraging believers to embrace their own struggles and pains as pathways to God's eternal kingdom. The use of the Cross as a symbol of Christ's finished work is contrasted with its historical association as a curse, highlighting the redemption and freedom found in Christ's sacrifice.
All Belly-Gods Shall at Last Be Found in the Belly of Hell!
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual RuinIntemperancePHP 3:18Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of intemperance, emphasizing that those who make their stomach their god are destined for destruction. He illustrates how indulgence in food and drink can lead to spiritual ruin, separating individuals from Christ and ultimately leading them to hell. Brooks uses the example of Dives, who lived luxuriously but faced eternal consequences, to highlight the futility of seeking pleasure in earthly desires. He urges listeners to recognize the peril of allowing their appetites to dictate their lives, as this leads to a life devoid of true happiness and salvation. The sermon serves as a stark reminder that all who worship their bellies will find themselves in the depths of hell.
Let Us Live With Christ
By Ignatius of Antioch0ISA 53:3JHN 5:46PHP 3:18COL 2:16REV 1:10Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of believing in Christ as the fulfillment of the ancient Scriptures, highlighting how the prophets eagerly awaited His coming as their Lord and Savior. He urges believers to move away from Jewish Sabbath traditions and instead focus on spiritual Sabbath observance, meditating on God's law and celebrating the Lord's Day as a festival in honor of Christ's resurrection. Ignatius warns against those who distort the teachings of Christ for personal gain, encouraging deliverance through the mercy of God and Jesus Christ.
Taking the Cross Sincerely (Is Your Conversation Really in Heaven? if Not, Your End Is destruction.)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0The Cross of ChristHeavenly MindednessPHP 3:18Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the necessity of taking the cross of Christ sincerely, warning that many Christians are enemies of the cross, focused on earthly desires rather than heavenly things. He laments that many walk in a way that leads to destruction, as they prioritize their own comforts and pleasures over a genuine relationship with Christ. Waldvogel calls for believers to crucify their old selves and to live in the power of Christ's resurrection, urging them to be heavenly-minded and to seek true fellowship with Him. He challenges the audience to reflect on their spiritual lives and to abandon the distractions of the world, reminding them that true spirituality is rooted in the cross and the suffering of Christ. Ultimately, he encourages a life that is fully surrendered to God, where one's conversation is genuinely in heaven.
Expectations: Real and Unreal
By Richard E. Bieber0GEN 3:1PSA 107:9MAT 10:16MAT 16:24LUK 15:25LUK 18:31JHN 12:24PHP 3:181JN 3:16Richard E. Bieber preaches on the importance of having realistic expectations in life, drawing from the example of Jesus riding into Jerusalem amidst praises but not being carried away by apparent success. He emphasizes the need to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves, focusing on the real goal rather than unreal expectations inspired by lies. By highlighting the consequences of false hopes through biblical examples like Amnon, the older brother in the parable of the prodigal son, and King Saul, he urges listeners to find true fulfillment in God and the cross, which leads to joy, deliverance from self-pity, healing of bitterness, and ultimately, heaven.
The Cross and the Tongue
By Jessie Penn-Lewis0Spiritual MaturityThe Power of WordsJER 15:19JHN 18:372CO 2:4EPH 4:14PHP 3:15PHP 3:18COL 1:28COL 4:12JAS 3:22PE 2:1Jessie Penn-Lewis emphasizes the critical relationship between our words and our spiritual maturity, particularly in the context of speaking about those who oppose the Cross of Christ. She highlights that true identification with Christ is reflected in our ability to control our speech, as stumbling in words reveals immaturity. The sermon calls for believers to speak the truth in love, especially when addressing the enemies of the Cross, and to maintain a spirit of compassion and weeping for those who have strayed. Penn-Lewis warns that our power in prayer and spiritual authority is compromised when we engage in unloving speech, urging believers to remain hidden in Christ to avoid the strife of tongues. Ultimately, she encourages a life that bears witness to the truth of God, ensuring our words are life-giving and aligned with His will.
Avoid the Deadly Errors of the Docetae
By Ignatius of Antioch0MAT 15:13JHN 15:51CO 1:18PHP 3:181PE 2:24Ignatius of Antioch warns the congregation to avoid false teachings and evil influences, specifically mentioning individuals like Simon, Menander, Basilides, Nicolaitanes, Theodotus, and Cleobulus, who lead people astray with their wicked ways. He emphasizes the importance of staying rooted in the true teachings of the Father and not being swayed by those who deny the cross of Christ or the significance of His passion and resurrection. Ignatius urges believers to reject the teachings of those who go against the core beliefs of Christianity and instead embrace the invitation to share in Christ's immortality through faith and obedience.
Take Heed of the Witch
By Thomas Brooks0Pursuit of HolinessWorldlinessPHP 3:18Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of being consumed by worldly desires, emphasizing that those who prioritize earthly things become enemies of the cross of Christ, leading to destruction. He laments the tears shed for those who neglect holiness in favor of worldly pleasures, which ultimately lead to spiritual barrenness. Brooks illustrates that the allure of the world can distract believers from their spiritual responsibilities and the pursuit of holiness. He urges listeners to recognize the vanity of worldly pursuits and to fill their hearts with holiness instead of allowing them to be filled with the flesh and the devil. The sermon concludes with a stark choice between the fleeting pleasures of the world and the eternal joy found in holiness.
The Preaching of Christ Crucified, the Means of Salvation
By Samuel Davies0PSA 85:10PSA 130:4JHN 12:32ROM 3:261CO 1:222CO 5:14GAL 6:14PHP 3:181JN 4:19REV 5:9Samuel Davies preaches about the significance of Christ crucified as the means of salvation, highlighting how the preaching of the cross reveals the love, justice, and mercy of God in a way that no human wisdom or philosophy could ever achieve. He emphasizes the necessity of faith in Christ crucified for salvation, the powerful attraction of the cross for repentance and obedience, and the assurance of reconciliation with God through the sacrifice of Jesus. Davies urges believers to reflect on the impact of the preaching of Christ crucified on their hearts and to embrace the hope and joy of salvation through the crucified Savior.
Epistle 56
By George Fox0ISA 7:14ISA 8:7LUK 15:8JHN 17:12ACT 7:52ROM 12:2EPH 2:2PHP 3:18COL 3:2COL 3:10JAS 3:17George Fox preaches about the importance of heeding the light of Christ within, which calls our minds away from worldly lusts and evil desires, and towards God for renewal and worship. Those who reject this light are enemies of Christ, influenced by the devil, and betrayers of the just. By focusing on the pure light of God, our minds are turned away from earthly affections and towards heavenly wisdom, leading to eternal life and peace.
Mark of the Beast
By Carter Conlon0GEN 4:15ISA 54:17EZK 9:3MAT 24:39LUK 21:26PHP 3:182TH 2:3HEB 11:132PE 3:3REV 13:15Carter Conlon preaches about the significance of the mark of the beast in Revelation, highlighting the end-time events leading to a one-world government and the rise of the Antichrist. He emphasizes the root of sin in humanity's desire to be like God, tracing it back to the Garden of Eden. Conlon explains the symbolism of 666 as the culmination of man declaring himself as God, indwelt by Satan. He warns about the inner scoffing and falling away in the last days, urging believers to be marked by God's values and not be swayed by the world's seductive reasoning.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For many walk, etc - The Judaizing teachers continue to preach, who wish to incorporate circumcision, and other ordinances of the law, with the Gospel. They are the enemies of the cross of Christ - They rather attribute justification to the Levitical sacrifices, than to the sacrificial death of Christ; and thus they are enemies to that cross, and will not suffer persecution for its sake. They please the world, and are in no danger of reproach.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
many walk--in such a manner. Follow not evildoers, because they are "many" (Exo 23:2). Their numbers are rather a presumption against their being Christ's "little flock" (Luk 12:32). often--There is need of constant warning. weeping-- (Rom 9:2). A hard tone in speaking of the inconsistencies of professors is the very opposite of Paul's spirit, and David's (Psa 119:136), and Jeremiah's (Jer 13:17). The Lord and His apostles, at the same time, speak more strongly against empty professors (as the Pharisees), than against open scoffers. enemies of the cross of Christ--in their practice, not in doctrine (Gal 6:14; Heb 6:6; Heb 10:29).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Whose end is destruction,.... Everlasting destruction, the destruction of both body and soul in hell, Mat 10:28; and this is the end, the reward and issue of bad principles and practices; the broad roads of sin and error lead to destruction, Mat 7:13; however pleasing such ways may be to men, the end of them is eternal death; destruction and misery are in all the ways of profaneness and heresy; not only immoralities, but heresies, such as strike at the efficacy of Christ's cross, his blood, righteousness, and sacrifice, are damnable ones, and bring upon men swift destruction, Pe2 2:1; and how should it otherwise be, for there is no salvation but by the cross of Christ? and if men are enemies to that, and the efficacy of it, and the way of salvation by it, there is no more, nor any other sacrifice for sin, Heb 10:26, but a fearful looking for of judgment, and fiery indignation, Heb 10:27; and this will be the case of all barren and unfruitful professors, who are like the earth, that brings forth briers and thorns, and is nigh unto cursing, whose end is to be burned, Heb 6:8; for what will the hope of such an one, founded on his profession, though he may have got credit and reputation among men, avail, when God takes away his soul? whose god is their belly; the belly was the god of the Cyclops, they sacrificed to none but to themselves, and to the greatest of the gods, their own belly (a); as money is the covetous man's god, whom he loves, adores, and puts his confidence in, so the belly is the god of the sensualist, the epicure, and voluptuous person; he has more regard for the service of that, than for the service of God? and of this complexion were these professors; they were lovers of pleasure, more than lovers of God, Ti2 3:4; all their pretensions to religion, to Christ, and his Gospel, were only to serve themselves, their own bellies, and not the Lord Jesus Christ, and to do good to the souls of men: or their belly may be said to be their god, because they placed religion in the observance of meats and drinks, either allowed or forbidden in the law of Moses, which profited not those that were occupied therein, Heb 9:10; for the kingdom of God, the Gospel dispensation, internal religion, and the exercise of it, lies not in these things, but in righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost, Rom 14:17, and whose glory is in their shame; in their evil practices committed in secret, of which it was a shame to speak; in their hidden things of dishonesty, crafty walking, and deceitful handling of the word of God, which were vile and scandalous, Co2 4:2; in corrupting the Gospel, and the churches of Christ, with their false doctrine; in observing and urging the ceremonies of the law, which were dead, and ought to be buried; and particularly circumcision in the flesh, in that part of the body which causes shame, and in this was their glory, Gal 6:13. The idol Baal Peor, and which is no other than the Priapus of the Heathens, is called by this name, Hos 9:10; so the prophets of Baal are in the Septuagint on Kg1 18:19 called the prophets, , "of that shame"; it may be the apostle may have a regard to the secret debaucheries of these persons; or because they made their belly their god, he calls it their shame in which they gloried, and which was the name given to the idols of the Gentiles: who mind earthly things. The Arabic version renders it, "who entertain earthly opinions"; and some by, "earthly things" understand the ceremonies of the law, called the elements and rudiments of the world, which these false teachers were fond of, and were very diligent to inculcate and urge the observance of; though rather worldly things, such as honour, glory, and popular applause, and wealth, and riches, are meant; for they sought their own things, and not the things of Christ; through covetousness, with feigned words, they made merchandise of men, and amassed to themselves great sums of money; and yet were greedy dogs, could never have enough, everyone looking for his gain from his quarter, Isa 56:11, and now persons of such characters as these were by no means to be followed, but such who are hereafter described, (a) Euripides.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:18 The identity of the enemies is not known; they might have been (1) Jews or Jewish Christians proud of their circumcision (as in 3:2), whose emphasis on observant Judaism contradicted the cross of Christ; (2) pseudo-believers living a worldly, immoral life (cp. 3:19); or (3) professing believers who had rejected Paul’s cross-centered view of the Good News. Christ’s crucifixion as a criminal was scandalous and offensive to many (see 1 Cor 1:23; cp. Rom 9:33; 1 Pet 2:8).