Philippians 3:1-11: Nothing in my hand I bring, simply to the cross I cling

Rev. Nathan Meador, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Plymouth, Wisconsin, joins host Rev. Brady Finnern to study Philippians 3:1-11.

Paul calls us to task about confidence. Is our confidence in our own actions? Paul responds, “Let me tell you about actions: circumcised, direct lineage to the Israelites—no mixing with other nations, follower of the law, persecutor of anyone outside of Judaism, and righteous in all my actions.” Paul continues with a big “BUT” — but all of that is a wash, rubbish, a loss, and has no value compared to the surpassing righteousness of Christ’s cross that we receive in the gift of faith. Simple, but also beyond comprehension. Thanks be to God! “Lord God, fill us to have our confidence in Your cross and righteousness alone. Help us be faithful until our last breath and that we find our hope in Your grace, love, and forgiveness in Christ. In Him alone, Amen”