Philippians 3:2-3 ESV
Look out for the dogs, look out for the evildoers, look out for those who mutilate the flesh.
For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh—
Paul tells the Philippians to be on guard against three types of people, and speaks of them in stark terms.
It is pointed elsewhere that dogs return to their vomit. There will be some who accept the gospel gladly, but will quickly return to their former ways. There will be others who do not accept the gospel and will seek to pull the believer back into the mire of darkness which they find so comfortable. Those who mutilate the flesh are those who call themselves the people of God, but are not.
Israel was able to demonstrate all three characteristics, and yet they believed they were the people of God. Israel placed their confidence in the flesh. Weren't they the children of Abraham?
They had the trappings of religion, but had lost access to God. We who worship by the Spirit and remain in Christ are the true circumcision because the word of God has divided between flesh and spirit. We have been freed from the dominion of death and now enjoy the liberty of life.
Be on the lookout with these kingdom eyes which opened upon our spiritual awakening as we watch for His coming. Look out and look up, for our salvation draws near.
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