Pastor Tricia's Ramblings

In the modern Christian context, there exists a profound struggle between performance-based faith and the grace offered through Jesus Christ. As we jump into the writings of Paul, specifically in Philippians 3:3–6, we can see that even someone as religious as Paul realized that his deeds were not enough for righteousness. Paul’s extensive background as a Pharisee, a zealous follower of the law, and a persecutor of Christians made him someone who could have easily put confidence in his flesh. Yet, in his later writings, he encouraged believers to acknowledge that relying on human performance is futile.

Paul’s Reflection on Religion

In Philippians 3:4–6, Paul provides a striking list of qualifications that many would consider markers of righteousness. He mentions being circumcised on the eighth day, belonging to the nation of Israel, part of the tribe of Benjamin, and being a Hebrew among Hebrews. Furthermore, he described himself as a Pharisee, zealous to the point of persecuting the Church and holding steadfastly to the law. All these attributes were badges of honor that should have set him above the rest; however, Paul eventually realized that his confidence was misplaced.
In the Church today, many are taught in a similar manner: morality can be a substitute for righteousness. As Warren Wiersbe aptly stated, “like most religious people today, Paul had enough morality to keep him out of trouble, but not enough righteousness to get him into heaven.” This remark reveals a glaring truth; it’s not merely about avoiding wrongdoing but attaining a righteousness that comes only through faith in Christ. We must get rid of our religion to step into relationship through salvation.

The Limitations of the Law

The Scriptures remind us of the limitations of the Law. Romans 7:18 states, “For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.” This encapsulates the struggle of humanity perfectly. While the law reveals our sinfulness and leads us to recognize our need for salvation, it yields no power to save. It emphasizes that our flesh is weak, and we cannot rely solely on our actions to earn favor with God.
This idea of our flesh being insufficient to produce righteousness is echoed throughout Scripture. Just as Paul wrote in Romans 7 regarding his own failures—what he wished to do, he could not accomplish—so too do we encounter a struggle between our desires and our actions. This is increasingly relevant in a culture that often conflates morality with true righteousness.

The Deceptive Nature of False Teachers

Paul warned about false teachers in his time, proclaiming a message that seemed to blend faith with performance. He understood that they would try to convince believers that righteousness depended partly on adherence to the law and partly on faith. This blend of works and faith is a dangerous doctrine, one that can lead many astray, even to this very day.
Matthew 27:62–66 gives us an account of the Pharisees’ actions following Jesus’ crucifixion. They sought to secure the tomb, fearing the disciples would steal Jesus’ body and claim He had risen from the dead. This fear of losing their control and standing within the religious community shows us how deeply reliant they were on tradition and the law, rather than on the power of God as revealed through Jesus.

Sin Leads to Death—But There is Hope

The stark reality is outlined in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” The law exposes our sinfulness, pointing out our shortcomings and leading to a recognition of our eternal separation from God because of it. However, the narrative doesn’t end with sin; it continues to unfold with the incredible promise of eternal life through Christ.
Just as Jesus did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17), He also came to redefine our understanding of righteousness. It is through His sacrifice and resurrection that we are redeemed from the shame, guilt, and condemnation that sin brings. Understanding this makes it possible for us to move from mere religious observance to authentic faith and relationship.

God’s Plan for Relationship

God’s purpose for creating mankind was not merely a legalistic-following of rules or rituals; it was designed for relationship. As it is written in Genesis, God communed with Adam and Eve in the garden, walking with them to share in companionship (Genesis 3:8). It was sin that severed that communion, yet Jesus’ sacrifice restored that access, allowing us to walk and talk with the Father once again.
This relationship becomes the foundation upon which our faith stands. Philippians 3:9 emphasizes that it is through faith in Christ that we gain righteousness, saying, “And be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith.” What a beautiful reminder that our identity is rooted not in our accomplishments, but in our connection to Jesus.

Moving from Performance to Promise

So, does this mean we can live however we desire, knowing we have grace? This question often arises when discussing the nature of salvation and grace. The answer lies in our understanding of love—true love prompts us to strive for holiness not through our efforts but as a result of gratitude for what has been done for us.
John 6:63 reminds us that “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all.” We must rely on the Spirit, allowing Him to transform our hearts and minds, leading us away from the pitfalls of sin. As we grow closer to God and understanding what it means to have a relationship rather than just pursuing a checklist of moral obligations, we are compelled to respond in a way that glorifies Him.

Conclusion: Embracing Your True Identity

In our journey of faith, let us draw our confidence not from our ability to perform but from the grace that is freely given through Jesus Christ. As we let go of the false securities that come from human effort, we can step boldly into the identity God intended for us—one that is made new in Christ.
The sovereignty of our God is evident, as Eleazar the scribe reminds us, even amidst chaos. By focusing on Christ’s redeeming love and His work on the cross, we gain the hope and assurance that our relationship with God is how we were always meant to live. Instead of striving for unattainable perfection, let our hearts rejoice in the grace freely given, the relationship restored, and the journey of transformation that awaits.
Yet, even as we embrace grace, we must navigate the nuance of our freedom. Does that mean we can do whatever we wish? Yes, but no. We are not under the law; thus, we are not bound by it. However, we are called to live holy, set-apart lives as a reflection of our Father. Our righteousness isn’t simply about what we do; it is fundamentally about who we are in Christ. Our holiness isn’t performance-based—our behaviors are holy and righteous because, as children of the Father, we are holy and righteous.
So, what we do flows out of who we are and becomes a reflection of the Father within us. Remember, we were made in His image; our lives are designed to reflect Him. Thus, we walk in freedom, not with abandon, but with a heart transformed by grace, constantly drawing others to the goodness of God through our lives. Amen.