By: Pastor Daniel Ethridge
As we continue our journey through the book of Philippians, the Apostle Paul gives us a sobering challenge. In a world full of competing voices, influences, and priorities, the way we live ultimately reveals what we believe. Paul writes with deep emotion, warning believers that it is possible for someone to claim Christ with their words while denying Him with their life.
“Join in imitating me, brothers and sisters, and pay careful attention to those who live according to the example you have in us.”
Philippians 3:17
Paul calls believers to pay careful attention to the examples they follow. Not every path leads to life. Not every influence leads toward Christ.
In fact, Paul says there are many who live as enemies of the cross.
“For I have often told you, and now say again with tears, that many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.”
Philippians 3:18
This is not simply a warning about people outside the church; it is a call for every believer to examine their own life. The question is not just what we say we believe. The real question is what our lives reveal.
Paul gives four clear characteristics of those who live as enemies of the cross.
1. They Focus on Earthly Things
Paul describes people whose attention is completely captured by the things of this world.
“Their end is destruction; their god is their stomach; their glory is in their shame; and they are focused on earthly things.”
Philippians 3:19
Our focus determines our direction. Just as a driver must keep their eyes on the road, our lives will always move in the direction of our attention. When our minds are consumed with wealth, status, power, or influence, we slowly drift away from the heart of Christ. The things of this world promise fulfillment, but they cannot provide lasting life or peace. Scripture repeatedly calls believers to a different mindset.
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
Colossians 3:2
When our focus shifts from temporary things to eternal realities, our perspective changes. Problems look different. Priorities look different. Life begins to be shaped by eternity instead of the moment.
2. They Glory in Their Shame
Paul says that those who live as enemies of the cross begin to celebrate the very things that should bring conviction. In other words, they take pride in what God calls sin. We live in a culture that often encourages people to celebrate whatever they desire, regardless of whether it aligns with God’s Word. But Paul reminds believers that pride in sin is a dangerous place to be. Scripture calls believers to something very different.
“May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Galatians 6:14
The Christian life is not about boasting in ourselves, our accomplishments, or our identity. Our only true boast is in Jesus and what He has done for us through the cross. Everything we have is because of Him.
3. They Are Controlled by Their Appetites
Paul describes those who live as enemies of the cross by saying:
“Their god is their stomach.”
This phrase represents more than physical hunger. It speaks of living under the control of our desires. When our cravings, impulses, and passions begin to rule our lives, they take the place that only God should hold. The world tells us to follow every desire we feel. Scripture tells us something different.
“Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Galatians 5:16
Every person is controlled by something. Either we are ruled by our desires, or we are led by the Spirit of God. When the Holy Spirit is guiding our lives, He gives us the power to resist the pull of sin and live in freedom.
4. Their End Is Destruction
Paul concludes with a sobering reality. A life lived in opposition to the cross ultimately leads somewhere.
“Their end is destruction.”
Philippians 3:19
Sin always carries consequences. The enemy wants people to believe the choice is between God and the pleasures of this world. But the true choice is far more serious. It is the choice between life and destruction, between heaven and hell. Yet the gospel reminds us that destruction does not have to be our ending.
The Hope for Those Who Belong to Christ
After describing the life of those who oppose the cross, Paul reminds believers of a completely different reality.
“Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly wait for a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Philippians 3:20
Followers of Jesus live with a different identity. We may live on earth, but our true citizenship is in heaven. That means our values, priorities, and hope are not defined by this world. They are defined by the kingdom of God. One day, Christ will complete the work He began in us.
“He will transform the body of our humble condition into the likeness of his glorious body.”
Philippians 3:21
This is the promise of the gospel. Those who belong to Christ will not end in destruction. They will end in glory.
A Call to Examine Our Lives
The challenge of this passage is deeply personal. Are we living as friends of God or drifting toward the values of the world? The truth of the gospel is that every one of us started as enemies of God. Yet through the death and resurrection of Jesus, we can be reconciled to Him.
“For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son…”
Romans 5:10
Because of Jesus, enemies can become family. Rebels can become redeemed. Sinners can become citizens of heaven.
If you’re ready to take your next step, fill out a Connection Card or visit one of our campus locations. We would love to pray with you, baptize you, or help you get connected.