Text: Philippians 3:1-3
Introduction:
This third chapter is a flowing artesian of truth dealing with the different aspects of being saved and the joy that comes. For that reason may we drink slowly from His precious Word.
As we do, may we consider [1] the might of the saved, [2] the message to the saved, and [3] the mark of the saved.
I. THE MIGHT OF THE SAVED v. 1
Note: To rejoice in the Lord - Romans 5:3-5; James 1:2-4
-one must be saved
-one must be sure
-one must be satisfied
A. The command to rejoice. (an easy command - "rejoice")
B. The character of our rejoicing. (in the Lord)
II. THE MESSAGE TO THE SAVED v. 2
A. A message to beware of dogs (FALSE PREACHERS)
1. Jesus said, "Give not that which is holy unto dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you." (Matt. 7:6)
2. Isaiah said of the religious leaders of his day:
"They are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber." (Isaiah 56:10)
3. They are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain." (Isaiah 56:11)
(The Talmud refers to the Gentiles as dogs - "Gentile Dog.")
B. A message to beware of evil workers. (FOUL PLANNERS)
C. A message to beware of the concision. (those mutilated) (FALSE PROFESSORS) (Rom. 4:6-12)
III. THE MARK OF THE SAVED v. 3
A. You know them by their manner of worship. "which worship God in the spirit"
B. You know them by their motivation for worship. ‘‘rejoice in Christ Jesus
C. You know them by their methods of worship. "Have no confidence in the flesh"
