Philippians 3:18 – Thoughts On The Cross This Easter

Daily Devotional Bible Verse

For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. (Philippians 3:18 ESV)

It’s likely that if you asked the average person on the street what they think of Jesus, the majority of responses would be positive. Many would say that he was a good teacher that taught good moral lessons. But, mention the cross of Christ, and all that it entails, and you will likely receive a different response. Paul told the church in Philippi that there are people who are enemies of the cross of Christ. They may like Jesus and what they perceive to be His teachings, yet they don’t like what comes with the cross. As we read through the Bible we learn much about the cross of Christ.

1. Paul wrote that it is foolishness to those that are perishing (1 Corinthians 1:18). People who don’t understand Jesus find it hard to understand the cross.

2. Jesus said that we must deny ourselves and take up our cross and follow him (Matthew 16:24). The cross is an instrument of death, therefore we must die to ourselves and our passions in order to follow Jesus.

3. The cross brings peace to all things through forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:20-22). In order to embrace the cross, it’s crucial that we acknolwedge your sinfulness and repent of it.

Just as Paul was talking to the church in Philippi, he is also talking to us today. The Gospel, the good news, is that our sins are forgiven because of the work of Jesus on the cross. In your walk with God, have you acknowledged sin and the cross of Christ? Or have you simply decided you want heaven and a better life?

Today, take a moment to examine your life, and the impact of the cross of Christ holds for you.