99 Days to Pentecost: Day 52

Day 52 - April 6, 2021

Philippians 3:8-9 (Read Full Chapter)
8 More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith.

“In Christ Alone”
Written by Pastor Tina Hsu

Paul writes openly in this chapter about his testimony. His upbringing and religious background actually gave him many identity and righteousness “badges” in the world of Jewish people. He was circumcised eight days after birth, a part of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews, and a Pharisee who was trained in the Law. All of these traits and more were outward “badges” that led Paul to believe he was part of God’s chosen, covenant people, and therefore, a righteous person in God’s eyes. Upon encountering Jesus, Paul’s “badges” become rubbish, and Paul confesses that receiving Christ by faith and being covered by His blood is the only way to righteousness. His righteousness comes only from Jesus who clothes Paul with His righteousness bought by His blood.

Even in the early church, believers needed a safeguard from misleading teachings that caused them to count on outward markers to be righteous. These teachings have the danger of polluting our faith and cause us to lose sight of the sufficiency and efficacy of Christ’s blood for our righteousness. Paul uses his own testimony to direct the Philippian church to stand firm in the righteousness of Christ that comes by faith and to resist any teaching that tells them to rely on outward religious markers for salvation.

Although we live in a different time, we also need the same safeguard to count on Christ alone for our righteousness and not on our religious activity and background. Our works are expressions of love towards Christ, not the means to be saved. Knowing Christ personally as our Savior has infinite value, so let us be found in Him and in Him alone.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing You as my Lord. I count them all rubbish so that I may gain You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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