Beware of Cross-less Christianity!

Phil 3:18-19 

 

As I see the kind of “Gospel” that’s often preached today I’m reminded of the Apostle Paul, who with tears warned of a cross-less Christianity that leads to destruction.  In Phil 2:1-13, 3:4-17 Paul taught us all to follow the Lamb nature of Jesus, that because of our union with Him, and our partaking of His love and comfort, we could follow the Lamb and work out our salvation with fear and trembling.  In other words, walk out the denying of self so He can live in us and thus, we experience the reality of “Christ in us, the hope of glory.”  

 

Real Christianity includes suffering that yields a deeper union with the Lord.  In these chapters, Paul makes it clear that carrying our cross opens the door to the increase of the knowledge of God.  Each struggle refines our faith.  Tested faith moves mountains.  It seems many proclaim an “easy street Christianity.”  This cannot be.  We have a cross to carry, but with our cross we also gain intimacy, deep love, and true fellowship with the Lamb of God.