Have you ever heard of the term "enemies of the cross"? What do you think it means? One might imagine the term refers to those who tried to crucify Christ centuries ago. Or maybe those who opposed Christianity in the past as well as in the modern era.
Fortunately, the Bible provides context in Philippians 3:18-19 - For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.
This scripture refers to self-professed Christians who, over time, go from faithfully living by God's word and grace to living a life that negates the sacrifice of Christ. These are brothers and sisters who have become carnal. Carnality starts in the mind and happens when, over time, a person's focus and drive are for the things of this world instead of heaven-minded. Jesus warned believers of certain ways this could happen. He said in Mark 4:18-19 that the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and desires for other things can cause a person to turn away from the Lord. When that happens, a person who once was a fervent follower can become an enemy of the cross.
If one is to be honest, it is hard to not allow the trappings of life to distract from the word of God. After all, narrow is the way that leads to a godly life and eternity (Matthew 7:14). Plus, there are bills to be paid, children to be fed, and other realities of the world that demand attention. We also live in a world where the big house, the fancy car, and exotic trips are held in high regard. Those who do not display their wealth are looked down upon and that creates pressure to go out and get the money that will purchase a lifestyle envied by the people of the world.
However, the followers of the Way - believers - cannot afford to take their eyes off God, His word, and expectations. We must remember what Christ taught in Matthew 6:33 - Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need (NLT). For us, the primary goal is to focus on what God desires instead of our desires. When Christ prayed that He would not have to go to the cross, He nevertheless knew that God's purpose was more important than His feelings, ending His petition with "yet not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). When we put God first, He will give us the things the world desires but, in our case, they will come with ease instead of the soul-crushing sacrifices others have to make for success. The Bible tells us in Proverbs 10:22 - The blessing of the LORD brings [true] riches, And He adds no sorrow to it [for it comes as a blessing from God] (AMP).
We need to add patience to our faith in increasing measure (2 Peter 1:6). That is the only way we will stand firm as the Lord works things out for our good while ensuring that we are spiritually mature when we step into the fullness of life that is His promise (John 10:10). This will keep us from becoming enemies of the cross of Christ. The types who are ruled by their stomach and therefore, by their desires, which is contrary to God's expectation that we apply His spirit of self-discipline in all things (2 Timothy 1:7). We must be on alert because such enemies will experience destruction, which means the wrath of God.
The Lord will help us to live in a way whereby Christ will call us His friends, just as He did His disciples in John 15:15. We will not be enemies of the cross, IJN, Amen.
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