1.
Philippians 3:18-19.
2.
Enemies of the cross.
a)
Many walk. These people were enemies of the cross, not because of their
doctrine, but because of their practice (although this does not teach that
doctrine is unimportant). This reminds us that our way of life is as much an
indicator of our faith (or lack thereof) as is our profession. Consider
Matthew 7:20.
b)
Paul warned of them often. Consider II Peter 1:12.
c)
Caused Paul to weep.
3.
Enemy – 1: one that is antagonistic to another; especially : one
seeking to injure, overthrow, or confound an opponent 2 : something harmful or
deadly 3 a: a military adversary b: a hostile unit or force (from Webster’s
New Collegiate Dictionary).
4.
These enemies of the cross brought harm to the design and purpose of the cross
of Christ and all that was represented by the cross.
I.
Whose end is destruction.
A.
"End" refers to our ultimate fate. Consider Matthew 7:13-14.
B.
"Destruction" is rendered "perdition" by the ASV. Does
not refer to a loss of being but rather a loss of "well-being"
(Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words).
II.
Whose god is their belly.
A.
Their chief aim was to satisfy their sensual appetites. See I Corinthians
6:12-20.
B.
Paul wrote concerning those who were lovers of pleasure more than lovers of
God – II Timothy 3:4.
III.
Whose glory is in their shame.
A.
Paul’s words are reminiscent of Hosea 4:7.
B.
The enemies of the cross not only sinned, but they foolishly boasted of
their sin.
IV. Who
mind earthly things.
A. As
Christians, we are to set our affections on things above, not on things on
the earth – Colossians 3:1-3.
B. As
Christians, our citizenship is in heaven – Philippians 3:20.
