Though I could have confidence in my own effort if anyone could. Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more. {Phil 3:4 NLT}
There is only one good work that transforms a sinner into a saint and qualifies him/her to be a partake of eternal life with God; – it is the ‘Finished Work of Christ on the Cross’. Our scriptural focus for today states – Though I could have confidence in my own effort if anyone could. Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more. Apostle Paul was not speaking from an ivory tower, he personally knew the futility of trying to attain Salvation by means of personal good works or self righteousness.
Apostle Paul’s aim in this scripture is to show that he did not despise this religious practice because he did not possess/practice them in time past, but because he has now discovered that they were of no value in the all important subject of Human Salvation. Once in his life, he had great confidence in them and he believed that he had more reasons to do so than anyone else in his days, going by his perceived advantages – hear the Bible’s position on this – All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags. {Isa 64:6a NIV}
As believers, we do not despise or disregard putting confidence in our human efforts because we do not possess them, nor lack the ability to practice them but because by the revelation of the scriptures which we are privileged to have through the Holy Spirit, we have discovered that human efforts are grossly insufficient to secure both eternal salvation and a life of righteousness with God.
Note that this is a dangerous and slippery path to take in the practice of true spirituality, because it will definitely shipwreck your Christian life.
Our human advantages are not the basis for our confidence as believers.
Have a Grace filled day – Good News awaits you.
Twitter, Instagram – @PastorIhu
Join us this evening by 5pm @2b Aba Road Opp. Penco Plaza Umuahia for an experience in Gods word. Shalom
Last modified: February 8, 2016
