Confidence in Christ Alone

In Phil 3:1-3, Paul commands the church to "rejoice in the Lord." He then issues a warning to look out for those who promote a false Gospel that claims spiritual superiority for those who place their confidence in their achievements. Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ alone. Paul reminds the church that the people of God are those who worship by the Spirit, glory in Christ and put no confidence in the flesh. A false Gospel of legalistic works will rob us of "joy in the Lord." If we place our confidence in our works, we will either "rejoice in achievements" (if we think we are doing well) or lose our joy completely (if we rightly recognize the utter inadequacies of our achievements). Our confidence must be in our Lord Jesus Christ alone.