Paul, writing to the church in Philippi, is addressing the problem of those who believe circumcision is a requirement for salvation. (v2) Some in the church had elevated the physical act of circumcision to be as important as the spiritual act of placing one’s faith in Jesus Christ. But Paul was having none of it.
Paul understood all too well the pitfalls associated with elevating religious performance. Starting in verse 5, he listed his qualifications, demonstrating that he was perfect when it came to those external measures of righteousness. But then he goes on to say it is all for loss compared to knowing Christ.
To appreciate the powerful difference between the physical and spiritual realms, consider Paul’s behavior both before and after his conversion. Before, when he was externally “perfect,” Paul persecuted the early church for their beliefs, condoning the murder of Stephen. Afterwards, when he put his trust in Christ, he preached the gospel to anyone who would listen and encouraged them to act in love towards God and each other.
Today, we struggle with placing too much emphasis on the physical, the “flesh”, through all the usual suspects: money, possessions, looks, eloquence, skills, etc. We can also do this as believers by judging those who don’t “act the way a Christian should”, instead of accepting the current state of people’s hearts and encouraging them to become more Christ-like. Within the modern church we can judge the quality of a church by the competency of the staff, the polish of the programs, or the eloquence of its leaders.
Instead, we should challenge ourselves to value that which Jesus valued. He looked at the condition of the heart. He asked us to clean the inside of the cup. (Matthew 23:26) Does our church have a sense of urgency in preaching the gospel? Do we value justice? Do we forgive easily and encourage holiness? As believers, do we accept people where they are? Do we put our relationship with God above our career, our possessions, our friends, our looks, etc?
Today, let’s look for ways to see and embrace the spiritual world we live in and look past the flesh of the physical world which can enslave us.
Correy Trupp serves as Director of Group Life at the Church of the Resurrection.
