Chapter three opens with a similar refrain and then introduces a whole new topic in Philippians. Paul begins by reminding us where true joy comes from...the LORD! This is expected as we have seen fingerprints of joy throughout the first two chapters. Yet, then there is a curious and sudden shift in Paul’s rhetoric. Strong words are used as Paul vehemently warns that Christ ALONE is sufficient for salvation and for joy!

Philippians 3.1-2

1 Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you. 2 Look out for the dogs, look out for the evildoers, look out for those who mutilate the flesh.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ To whom is Paul speaking in 3.1?

+ What is his direction as he introduces the next section of the letter? (v. 1)

+ How might you explain to a friend what it means to “rejoice in the Lord?”

+ Are there other words we might use today?

+ How is joy IN THE LORD a refrain in Philippians? How can we keep it a refrain in our lives?

+ Why does Paul say he is “writing the same things?”

+ How does reviewing WHO the source of all “joy” comes from keep you and I as believers “safe?”

+ How does v. 2 make an abrupt shift?

+ How might that make us re-think what Paul is referring to as he repeats himself and seeks to keep the Philippian believers “safe?”

+ What are the three groups of people Paul warns the brothers to “look out for?”

+ The first two are general terms, but the third gives the reader an idea about the issue Paul is warning about. Context from 3.3 is necessary:

3 For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God

and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh—

+ What might these “mutilators of the flesh” be teaching falsely about?

+ Acts 15.1 gives further insight into this…

1 But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.”

+ Why might some brothers hold so tightly to this law of Moses for salvation?

+ What are we holding tightly to in our past that cannot save?

+ In whom should we REJOICE in ALONE?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ In what ways am I saying Jesus AND? What laws or personal works am I trusting in for my salvation?

+ How can I avoid being a false teacher for those who follow me?

+ Who in my life do I give permission to hold me accountable to the truth?

+ How can I choose daily to rejoice in Christ alone?

+ Give glory to Jesus alone?

+ And worship by the Spirit of God alone?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ Who needs to see me live out Proverbs 3.5, “Trust in the Lord with all my (your) heart, and (do) not lean on my (your) own understanding”?