SCRIPTURE: Philippians 3:1-7 

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In the book of Philippians, Paul praises the believers in Philippi and calls them to unity as they share the gospel of Jesus Christ. He reminds them that the key to achieving unity is for each one to adopt Christ's humility. Paul also speaks of joy and rejoicing despite the opposition of others. 

"But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God, just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. Yes, you should rejoice, and I will share your joy." Philippians 2:17-18

In the opening verses of chapter three, Paul warns his readers about the Judaizers, who emphasized the importance of circumcision. These leaders believed it was a prerequisite for justification (Acts 15:1).

Without life-changing faith, circumcision is merely an outward sign without an inward reality. Similarly, baptism without life-changing faith is just a submersion in water. We should be cautious of those who focus only on the external. (See 1 Samuel 16:7)

Paul adopted the Judaizers' attitude of confidence in the flesh to strengthen his argument. He did this to demonstrate that his rejection of Jewish advantages was not due to a lack of them in his life.  

"Though I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh also, if anyone else thinks he has a reason for confidence in the flesh, I have more …" Philippians 3:4 

SONG: "Because of Jesus" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7hBvI6GPoU