But what does it matter?
Summary: When Paul poses the question, “[W]hat does it matter?” we are forced to confront the central issues of the Gospel.
Indeed, what does it matter if Christ is preached to stir up trouble for Paul? In fact, what does that even mean? Can someone teach the Gospel like Paul does and at the same time “stir up trouble” for him?
Standing on the Gospel of Jesus Christ is a bit like trying to stand on one foot while balancing on a ball. The true Gospel is the sweet spot where you can stay upright. The reality is that we tend to fall off the ball on one side or the other.
Some people fall off on the side of Grace, counting on God’s generosity to save them. Others fall off on the side of works, teaching that there are certain things one has to do in order to be saved.
Then there is Paul asking, “But what does it matter?” in his letter to the Philippians, while in his letter to the Galatians, he writes about turning to a “different gospel” and falling under God’s curse (Galatians 1:6-9).
What really matters?
The nature of the Gospel is quite simple:
Jesus died for us because of our sins (Romans 5:8, 1 Corinthians 15:3).
Then, God validated Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross by raising him from the dead back to life (Romans 4:25, 1 Corinthians 15:4, Galatians 1:1).
Our job is to believe in Jesus (John 6:29, Romans 3:22, Ephesians 2:8-9).
From our human perspective here on earth, it is easy to find fault with how others interpret the Gospel. Paul himself argues for leniency when he writes, “Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters” (Romans 14:1).
So what is disputable? What matters?
Perhaps, in moments of divine clarity, Paul is able to see the question from God’s perspective. He speaks to this again when he writes, “For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2).
Is there a more concise statement of the Gospel than this?
Application: Believe in Jesus Christ, Son of God.
Food for Thought: Is there a danger in putting well-intended roadblocks in people’s spiritual path?
Unnecessary road blocks always create unnecessary detours to our destination. So yes. If our destination is Christ, road blocks can keep us from Him or make it a lot harder to get to Him.
Either adding to scripture or subtracting from scripture is dangerous. God doesn’t need any help, least of all mine.
I’ve never seen you put up a roadblock brother!
😇
Is there a danger in putting well-intended roadblocks in people’s spiritual path?
God’s Word has been recorded for our benefit, God has included many “don’ts” in His Word. One purpose is to clearly identify some sins which are disguised as something to be sought after by our flesh, and comes in many forms. However, if we determine avoiding these means in our power, we simply exchange one problem for another. All achievements in our power can build an attitude of self-righteousness seeking to replace genuine Christ righteousness.
God knows this and His main focus in His word is on DO’S over DON’TS. As we will focus on the DO’S, we will one day simply find we have no time or desire to do the DON’TS. It’s a miracle we call transformation, empowered by God.
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Colossians 3:2
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. Romans 8:5
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33
Our goal should be to reveal God’s do’s to others so as they grow in the Lord, they will develop and aversion to the to the don’ts.
Nicely said, Ron!
Thank you! I especially like Matthew 6:33 —
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ”
With God as our top priority, everything else falls into place. 🙂