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Beware – Philippians 3
Beware – Philippians 3
It all started with a group of women trying to follow the teaching of the Old Testament to the best of their ability. Into this little group that would meet together down by the river, Paul came and instructed them about Jesus, the Christ, the fulfillment of the OT promises, the savior. They became disciples being baptized into Christ. As Paul stayed among them for a while, he converted others such as the jailor and his family. The little group grew as more believers in Jesus became part of their group (church, congregation, spiritual family). Some grew and matured and were appointed elders and deacons among them. (For such background, reread Acts 16).
According to Paul’s teaching, they each were stiving to be of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose (2:1-2). THEN, some among them deviated from the teaching! Paul had already anticipated that such would happen. It happens in every group that tries to be faithful. Anticipating such he wrote to them: “ (1) Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things again is no trouble to me, and it is a safeguard for you. (2) Beware of the dogs, beware of the evil workers, beware of the false circumcision; (3) for we are the true circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh” (Philippians 3:1-3).
They were blessed to have elders among them, men who were “9 holding fast to the faithful message according to the teaching, in order that he may be able both to exhort with sound instruction and to reprove those who speak against it” (Titus 1:9).
Such is involved in the life of a congregation. Where two or three are gathered together there seems to be one that is being different. Such is part of growing individually together. When you were a new convert, you needed the help, encouragement, instruction, and guidance of those who were older in the faith. Now that you are yourself ‘older in the faith’, you are to take your part in helping others.
Yes, being part of a congregation will have its problems. Being a disciple entails being involved with other disciples. In such a relationship, you will be tested. How are you doing with such tests? Are you being a faithful disciple of Jesus? Are you doing your part to help others be faithful?
Hugh DeLong
