How can we identify "enemies of the cross" in today's world? Setting the Scene “For as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears: Many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.” (Philippians 3:18) Paul’s heartbreak reminds us that opposition to the gospel isn’t abstract—it wears human faces, influences culture, and, tragically, sometimes grows inside the church itself. What Does “Enemies of the Cross” Mean? • Active hostility toward the saving work of Christ • Subtle distortion or dilution of the gospel message • A lifestyle that contradicts the self-denial and sacrifice the cross represents Key Traits Paul Identifies (Philippians 3:18-19) • “Their end is destruction” — they reject the only path of salvation • “Their god is their belly” — driven by appetites, cravings, and self-indulgence • “They glory in their shame” — celebrate what God calls sin • “Their minds are set on earthly things” — temporal priorities eclipse eternal truth Modern Expressions of These Traits • Gospel-lite messages promising prosperity without repentance • Moral ideologies that applaud what Scripture condemns • Entertainment and media normalizing sensuality and greed • Teachers who market faith for personal gain or fame • Movements that redefine Jesus to fit cultural preferences • Institutions privileging human wisdom over revealed truth Other Scriptures Filling Out the Portrait • 2 Peter 2:1-3—false teachers “secretly introduce destructive heresies” and exploit with “fabricated words.” • 1 John 2:15-17—love for “the desires of the flesh, the desires of the eyes, and the pride of life.” • Matthew 7:15-16—wolves in sheep’s clothing “by their fruit you will recognize them.” • Galatians 1:6-9—any “different gospel” brings eternal condemnation. • 2 Timothy 3:1-5—last-days people “lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God…having a form of godliness but denying its power.” • Jude 4—turning grace into “a license for immorality.” Guarding Our Hearts • Measure every teaching by Scripture, not charisma or popularity • Cultivate affection for Christ above worldly allurements • Seek the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) as evidence of genuine faith • Stay in fellowship where accountability and sound doctrine thrive • Remember the cross demands daily self-denial (Luke 9:23) Responding with Truth and Grace • Speak the gospel plainly, refusing to edit hard truths • Correct error gently, “instructing opponents with gentleness” (2 Timothy 2:25) • Live distinctly—holiness exposes counterfeit faith without a word • Intercede for those caught in deception, knowing Paul warned “with tears” • Hold fast to the hope that even enemies can become brothers when they meet the Savior who died for them |
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