Past: Fleshly Loss

Paul switches his emphasis in chapter 3 from internal personal struggles within the church at Philippi to external theological dangers that were threatening from outside. He repeats his warning about the false circumcision, teachers whose character and conduct were fleshly and ungodly. In doing so, Paul reveals that even his exemplary life and great accomplishments as a Jew were worthless in contrast to simple faith in the finished work of Christ. Judaism (fleshly attainments in keeping the Law) was being added as an additional requirement for salvation.