Beyond the Weekend

March 20 | Enemies of the Gospel

March 20, 2023

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

But whatever were gains to me I now consider a loss for the sake of Christ. Philippians 3:7

Read: Philippians 3:1-16
Listen:
Philippians 3

TODAY’S MESSAGE

There is tension in the early church between Jews and Christians. Some Christians believe that they still need the Jewish law, while others believe you don’t. This happens in the church of Philippi. Judaizers, Jews that became Christians, teach that a new believer must go through old Jewish customs before becoming a true follower of Christ. Paul has a lot to say because this teaching seriously damages the good news of Christ. Paul writes to Philippian believers to remind them what the Gospel really is. While Judaizers want to make Christianity a “Gospel+” religion, Paul reminds the Philippians that Jesus alone is sufficient for their rescue.

We too need to remember what the Gospel really is. Sometimes we think we need to add our own requirements to the Gospel or that God requires our efforts to maintain salvation. But the Gospel is a gift to broken people, accepted through faith. This faith changes everything.

This week, we’ll talk about how not to sabotage the work of the Gospel, being cautious about adding anything further to it and how our previous dark past isn’t held against us through Christ.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Slowly read Philippians 3 to understand what Paul is saying. Then pray and ask God for greater joy, peace and freedom this week as you meditate on and interact with this passage.


2023 SPIRITUAL PRACTICES

Join us all of 2023 developing a different spiritual practice each month. SPIRITUAL PRACTICES are intentional regular activities to deepen our relationship with God and mold us to be more like Jesus.

March is FASTING. Keep track of our spiritual practices at beyondtheweekend.org/spiritualpractices.

SPIRITUAL PRACTICES TIP. The Bible talks about people fasting for a variety of reasons including a specific request, in response to bad news or sickness and in repentance from sin. Consider these reasons for fasting and ask God if you should fast for one of these. If so, turn to God in prayer when you abstain.


Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

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