Confidence in the Flesh? Philippians 3:4

As Paul the apostle instructed the Philippian church members, he wanted to be assured that they knew the importance of worshiping God in the spirit and not having confidence within their flesh. In chapter three and verse four of his letter to them, Paul begins to tell them of his own lack within the flesh even though he was better than anyone he knew. He wrote:

Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinks that he has whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more:

The verse begins, “Though I might also have confidence in the flesh.” To give the Philippians an example of how “confidence in the flesh” is not sufficient, Paul begins with himself. The “flesh” as Paul references it means “that which denotes mere human nature, the earthly nature of man apart from divine influence, and therefore prone to sin and opposed to God”. He draws their attention to his own life story to make his point.

The verse goes on to say, “ If any other man thinks that he has whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more:” Paul continues his words with a comparison, “If any other man thinks” which is like a contest is about to be waged. Paul is ready to align himself and his fleshly life against anyone who even “thinks” they compare to him in the things “whereof he might trust in the flesh”. As a boastful call to engage, Paul states that he has “more” reasons to “trust in the flesh” than anyone else.

Because we are looking at the beginning of this paragraph from Paul we do not have the full account of his reasoning as yet, however, this is a great beginning point to align ourselves “in the flesh” against the one with whom we should compare – Jesus. The aim of Paul's discussion is that “the flesh” will never accomplish what has already been done by Jesus. It is incomplete, inadequate and untrustworthy. None can make themselves righteous by “fleshly” works, and only a work of God's spirit can make anyone righteous before Him. As we continue to study Paul's words concerning trusting in the flesh, let us continually be reminded that it is by God's spirit and God's spirit alone that we have confidence that we can be in a relationship with Him.

Next time we see Paul give the Philippians more words of wisdom about the flesh, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.

Until tomorrow...there is more...

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