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Philippians 3:1-4 shifting gears to work the others
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1. Philippians 3:1-4 shifting gears to work the others
Bishop in scopePhilippians 1 and 2 are concerned with calling the leadership of bishops and deacons to task for not teaching the true Christ. Paul uses many double meanings, play on words, puns, references to other scriptures, etc., to convey this.
Projection with strife and others 2In Philippians 3, Paul shifts gears and addresses the "others". He will continue to reference the leadership in comments addressed to the "others" as warnings.

Paul addresses three groups who desire extra rules to the faith which cause unneeded work and could lead some astray. To not alienate those other groups, he does not say "beware" is in English translations but, rather, "watch" or "see" as in the older English meaning of "be aware of".

2. Philippians 3:1-4
Verse routePhilippians 3:1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [kjv]
Verse route3:2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. [kjv]
Verse routeβλεπετε τους κυνας βλεπετε τους κακους εργατας βλεπετε την κατατομην [gnt]
Verse routevidete canes videte malos operarios videte concisionem [v]
Verse route3:3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. [kjv]
Verse route3:4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: [kjv]

Overview: What do these verses say and mean?

3. Finally shifting gears
Verse routePhilippians 3:1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [kjv]
Verse routeτο λοιπον αδελφοι μου χαιρετε εν κυριω τα αυτα γραφειν υμιν εμοι μεν ουκ οκνηρον υμιν δε ασφαλες [gnt]
Verse routeceteropigrumnecessarium [v]

Paul is halfway through the letter and says "finally". When people hear this in a sermon, they are ready to get up and leave. They become irritated or "difficult" when the pastor then goes on for twenty minutes or so.

4. And the rest
The Latin word "ceteros""other, remainder, rest" as in the English phrase "et cetera" abbreviated as "etc.", is a calque of the ancient Greek phrase "καὶ τὰ ἕτερα""and the other things".

Verse routePhilippians 2:4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. [kjv]
Verse routeμη τα εαυτων εκαστοι εκαστος αλλα και τα ετερων εκαστοι [gnt]

The corresponding modern Greek phrase is "και τα λοιπά" (keh ta lee-PA) ≈ "and the remainder", abbreviated as «κτλ.» or «κ.λπ.».

The English abbreviation "etc." was once written as "&c." or "et cet." (or similar variations). The German phrase "und so weiter""etc." is abbreviated as "usw.".

5. Philippians 2:4
 All 
KJV: Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Greek: μη τα εαυτων εκαστοι εκαστος σκοπειτε σκοπουντες αλλα και τα ετερων εκαστος εκαστοι

6. And the rest
The ancient Greek word "λοιπός""remaining" as in "others" and is from the ancient Greek word "λείπω""leave behind". It is the source of the ancient Greek word "λοιπόν""what remains, others" and is often translated as "so" or "therefore". The use of this word by Paul in the GNT (Greek New Testament) appears to have double meanings in some places such as here.

The Latin word "ceteros""other, remainder, rest" as in the English phrase "et cetera" abbreviated as "etc.".

The modern Greek word "λοιπόν" (lee-PON) ≈ "remaining" and is often used in speech as, "and continuing with the rest".

7. Acts 11:4 And so forth
The modern Greek phrase "και ούτω καθεξής" (keh U-to ka-theh-KSEES) ≈ "and so forth" is abbreviated «κοκ.».

The ancient Greek word "καθεξής""going forth in sequence" comes from the ancient Greek word "κατέχω""hold down, restrain" .

Verse routeActs 11:4 But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying, [kjv]
Verse routeαρξαμενος δε πετρος εξετιθετο αυτοις καθεξης λεγων [gnt]
Verse routeexponebatordinem … [v]
Verse routeerzähltenacheinander … [lu]

The ancient Greek word "εξετιθετο""put out" as in logically explain or expound.

8. Acts 11:4
   Acts 11:4 
 All 
KJV: But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,
Greek: αρξαμενος δε ο πετρος εξετιθετο αυτοις καθεξης λεγων
Latin: incipiens autem Petrus exponebat illis ordinem dicens
Luther: Petrus aber hub an und erzählte es ihnen nacheinander her und sprach:

9. Strongs - in order

10. Usage - in order
Word usage per chapter Words: καθεξης=5


11. Going forth in sequence
Verse routeLuke 8:1 And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him, [kjv]
Verse routeκαι εγενετο εν τω καθεξης και αυτος διωδευεν κατα πολιν και κωμην κηρυσσων και ευαγγελιζομενος την βασιλειαν του θεου και οι δωδεκα συν αυτω [gnt]
Verse routedeincepscivitatemcastellum … [v]

The Latin word "deinceps""following, next" and comes from "dein""thereafter" and "ceps""taking".

12. Luke 8:1
   Luke 8:1 
 All 
KJV: And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him,
Greek: και εγενετο εν τω καθεξης και αυτος διωδευεν κατα πολιν και κωμην κηρυσσων και ευαγγελιζομενος την βασιλειαν του θεου και οι δωδεκα συν αυτω
Latin: et factum est deinceps et ipse iter faciebat per civitatem et castellum praedicans et evangelizans regnum Dei et duodecim cum illo

13. To the rest of the others
Verse routePhilippians 3:1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [kjv]
Verse routeτο λοιπον αδελφοι μου χαιρετε εν κυριω τα αυτα γραφειν υμιν εμοι μεν ουκ οκνηρον υμιν δε ασφαλες [gnt]
Verse routeceteropigrumnecessarium [v]

Rock and sand In Philippians 3, Paul shifts gears and addresses the "others". Paul is "continuing with the rest" of his remarks but also addressed to the "others". He will continue to reference the leadership in comments addressed to the "others" as warnings.

14. Rejoice
Verse routePhilippians 3:1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [kjv]
Verse routeτο λοιπον αδελφοι μου χαιρετε εν κυριω τα αυτα γραφειν υμιν εμοι μεν ουκ οκνηρον υμιν δε ασφαλες [gnt]
Verse routeceteropigrumnecessarium [v]

The Greek for "rejoice" is that of "greet each other" which may or may not be joyous, depending on one's point of view.

Information sign More: A joyous thank you for the grace of a gaudy favor
Information sign More: Philippians 1b: A gracious favor of joy to Philippi

15. Shrinking hesitation of grief
Verse routePhilippians 3:1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [kjv]
Verse routeτο λοιπον αδελφοι μου χαιρετε εν κυριω τα αυτα γραφειν υμιν εμοι μεν ουκ οκνηρον υμιν δε ασφαλες [gnt]
Verse routeceteropigrumnecessarium [v]

The ancient Greek word "ὀκνηρός""shrink, hesitate" and comes from "ὀκνέω""shrink, hesitate". The Latin word "piger""backward, slow, unwilling, reluctant".

The KJV (King James Version) translates this word as "grievous" here and as "slothful" in two other places. In each place, the original idea of "hesitation" appears to fit well.

16. Slothful servant
Verse routeMatthew 25:26 His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: [kjv]
Verse routeαποκριθεις δε ο κυριος αυτου ειπεν αυτω πονηρε δουλε και οκνηρε ηδεις οτι θεριζω οπου ουκ εσπειρα και συναγω οθεν ου διεσκορπισα [gnt]
Verse routepiger … [v]

Is the servant "slothful" or "reluctant" as in "hesitating"?

The Latin word "pigeo""annoyance, reluctance".

17. Matthew 25:26
 All 
KJV: His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed:
Greek: αποκριθεις δε ο κυριος αυτου ειπεν αυτω πονηρε δουλε και οκνηρε ηδεις οτι θεριζω οπου ουκ εσπειρα και συναγω οθεν ου διεσκορπισα
Latin: respondens autem dominus eius dixit ei serve male et piger sciebas quia meto ubi non semino et congrego ubi non sparsi

18. Romans 12:11
Verse routeRomans 12:11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; [kjv]
Verse routeτη σπουδη μη οκνηροι τω πνευματι ζεοντες τω κυριω δουλευοντες [gnt]
Verse routeslowbisynesse… [wy]
Verse routebusynestedious … [ty]

The ancient Greek word "σπεύδω""be keen, make haste" in the sense of an urgent focused priority. The Old English word for "busy-ness" became the modern word "business".

The KJV "slothful" is "ὄκνος""shrinking, hesitation" as in being "fearful".

Paraphrase: Make it an urgent and immediate priority not to shy away or be fearful of ... serving the Lord.

Anyone in business knows not to be fearful or shy away from approaching a customer rather than have them walk out of the store without buying anything.

Information sign More: 2 Timothy 2:15 An urgent focused priority to do diligent study

19. Strongs - hesitate
  • *G3636 *3 ὀκνηρός (ok-nay-ros') : from G3635; tardy, i.e. indolent; (figuratively) irksome:--grievous, slothful.
  •  Usage 
     All 
    • οκνηρε
      •   Matthew 25:26 ... unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that ...
    • οκνηροι
      •   Romans 12:11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
    • οκνηρον
      •   Philippians 3:1 ... to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.

20. Usage - hesitate
*G3636 *3 ὀκνηρός (ok-nay-ros') : from G3635; tardy, i.e. indolent; (figuratively) irksome:--grievous, slothful.
Word usage per chapter Words: οκνηρε οκνηροι οκνηρον

The ancient Greek word "ὄκνος""shrinking, hesitation" and is related to the Latin word "cunctor""delay, hold up, hesitate" and to the English word "hang" as in "hang back". Think of hard "k" going to "kh" and then softening to "h".

Verse routeNumbers 22:16 And they came to Balaam, and said to him, Thus saith Balak the son of Zippor, Let nothing, I pray thee, hinder thee from coming unto me: [kjv]
Verse routeκαι ηλθον προς βαλααμ και λεγουσιν αυτω ταδε λεγει βαλακ ο του σεπφωρ αξιω σε μη οκνησης ελθειν προς με [lxx]
Verse routecuncteris … [v]


21. Romans 12:11

   Romans 12:11 
 All 
KJV: Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
Greek: τη σπουδη μη οκνηροι τω πνευματι ζεοντες τω καιρω κυριω δουλευοντες
Latin: sollicitudine non pigri spiritu ferventes Domino servientes
Wycliffe: not slow in bisynesse, feruent in spirit, seruynge to the Lord,
Tyndale: Let not yt busynes which ye have in honde be tedious to you. Be fervet in ye sprete. Applye youre selves to ye tyme.
Gothic: usdaudein ni latai; ahmin wulandans; fraujin skalkinondans;
Spanish: Diligentes, no perezosos; fervientes en espíritu, sirviendo al Señor.

22. Numbers 22:16

 All 
KJV: And they came to Balaam, and said to him, Thus saith Balak the son of Zippor, Let nothing, I pray thee, hinder thee from coming unto me:
Hebrew: ויבאו אל בלעם ויאמרו לו כה אמר בלק בן צפור אל נא תמנע מהלך אלי׃
Greek: και ηλθον προς βαλααμ και λεγουσιν αυτω ταδε λεγει βαλακ ο του σεπφωρ αξιω σε μη οκνησης ελθειν προς με
Latin: qui cum venissent ad Balaam dixerunt sic dicit Balac filius Sepphor ne cuncteris venire ad me

23. Romans 12:11
   Romans 12:11 
 All 
KJV: Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
Greek: τη σπουδη μη οκνηροι τω πνευματι ζεοντες τω καιρω κυριω δουλευοντες
Latin: sollicitudine non pigri spiritu ferventes Domino servientes

24. Modern Greek
The modern Greek word "οκνηρός" (o-knee-ROS) ≈ "lazy" which appears to come from the theological interpretation of the word as used in the GNT.

25. Strongs - hesitate

26. Usage - hesitate
Word usage per chapter Words: οκνηρε οκνηροι οκνηρον


27. Necessary and safe
Verse routePhilippians 3:1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [kjv]
Verse routeτο λοιπον αδελφοι μου χαιρετε εν κυριω τα αυτα γραφειν υμιν εμοι μεν ουκ οκνηρον υμιν δε ασφαλες [gnt]
Verse routeceteropigrumnecessarium [v]

The ancient Greek word "ἀσφαλής""immovable, unfailing, safe" and is, literally, "not falling down".

The Latin word "necessarium""unavoidable, inevitable, required" and is the source of the English word "necessary". An older meaning of the English (and Medieval Latin word in monasteries) was that of an "outhouse" where one did "unavoidable business".

28. Verse summary
Verse routePhilippians 3:1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [kjv]
Verse routeτο λοιπον αδελφοι μου χαιρετε εν κυριω τα αυτα γραφειν υμιν εμοι μεν ουκ οκνηρον υμιν δε ασφαλες [gnt]
Verse routeceteropigrumnecessarium [v]

Paul appears to be saying to the others (in this part) to greet each other in the Lord and that to write the same things to the others (in this part) as he wrote to the leadership (in the previous part) is not hesitation or reluctance on his part, but is safe (for the others to know) in that it may keep the others (in this part) from falling by making the same errors as made by the leadership (in the previous part).

29. Philippians 3:1
 All 
KJV: Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.
Greek: το λοιπον αδελφοι μου χαιρετε εν κυριω τα αυτα γραφειν υμιν εμοι μεν ουκ οκνηρον υμιν δε ασφαλες
Latin: de cetero fratres mei gaudete in Domino eadem vobis scribere mihi quidem non pigrum vobis autem necessarium

30. Philippians 3:2 Watch and see
Verse routePhilippians 3:2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. [kjv]
Verse routeβλεπετε τους κυνας βλεπετε τους κακους εργατας βλεπετε την κατατομην [gnt]
Verse routevidete canes videte malos operarios videte concisionem [v]

The KJV translates as "beware" a Greek word that means "see" or "observe". The GNT uses words for "beware" that are not used here. This Greek word is translated as "beware" only 5 times in the GNT. All uses are interesting.

Future topic Details are left as a future topic.



Information sign More: Matthew 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart

31. Deception
In a negative context, the "see" can be a type of "warning" as in "watch out for" or "be aware of".
Verse routeMatthew 24:4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι αποκριθεις ο ιησους ειπεν αυτοις βλεπετε μη τις υμας πλανηση [gnt]
Verse routerespondensvideteseducat [v]
Verse routeanswerideLokedisseyue … [wy]

Otherwise, one may be to "see" while others may not "see".
Verse routeLuke 10:23 And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: [kjv]
Verse routeκαι στραφεις προς τους μαθητας κατ ιδιαν ειπεν μακαριοι οι οφθαλμοι οι βλεποντες α βλεπετε [gnt]
Verse routebeati oculividentvidetis [v]

Greek has other words for "seeing" with a deeper understanding.

32. Matthew 24:4
   Matthew 24:4 
 All 
KJV: And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.
Greek: και αποκριθεις ο ιησους ειπεν αυτοις βλεπετε μη τις υμας πλανηση
Latin: et respondens Iesus dixit eis videte ne quis vos seducat
Wycliffe: And Jhesus answeride, and seide to hem, Loke ye, that no man disseyue you.

33. Luke 10:23
   Luke 10:23 
 All 
KJV: And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see:
Greek: και στραφεις προς τους μαθητας κατ ιδιαν ειπεν μακαριοι οι οφθαλμοι οι βλεποντες α βλεπετε
Latin: et conversus ad discipulos suos dixit beati oculi qui vident quae videtis

34. Philippians 3:2 Roman k sound
Verse routePhilippians 3:2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. [kjv]
Verse routeβλεπετε τους κυνας βλεπετε τους κακους εργατας βλεπετε την κατατομην [gnt]
Verse routevidete canes videte malos operarios videte concisionem [v]

Greek letterThe three word groups all start with the Greek "K" or "Kappa" letter. The "beware" means "see" or "observe".
In Roman times, the letter "k" was considered sinister and, in most cases, the Roman "c", with the same "k" sound, was used. Thus, "Caesar" was pronounced as "Kaiser". Carthage: Latin "Karthago" as "new Tyre", "Punic" as "Phoenician".

Later, the hard Latin "c" as "k" changed to the softer "c" as "s" or "ch" as in "church". The German word "die Kirche""church".

35. Cynics and dogs
It is said that the portico was named for two Greek words. The English name "Caleb" comes, through Late Latin, from the ancient Greek word "Χάλεβ""Caleb" which comes from the Hebrew word "כלב""Caleb, dog". Throughout times, the name of "dog" could have good or bad connotations.

Information sign More: Cynical about cynicism

36. Diogenes the Cynic
A famous cynic from the time of Aristotle and Alexander the Great is Diogenes of Sinope (404 - 323 BC), also known as "Διογένης ὁ Κυνικός""Diogenes the Cynic". His ideas later became the basis of the beliefs of the Stoics.
Reported conversation with Alexander the Great.

37. Cynical about cynicism
The English word "cynic" refers to a person who distrusts the motives of others and tends to be motivated by self-interest. Many view their attitude as negative rather than positive.

In ancient times, a "cynic" was a type of Greek philosophy, founded by Antisthenes, and marked by disdain for pleasure and worldly ease, etc. It was widespread in the 3rd century BC and was revived in the 1st century AD, about the time Christianity was moving into Greece.

Since many of their beliefs fit in with Christianity, some had trouble separating between Christian and cynic beliefs. These cynic beliefs of self-sufficiency, asceticism, isolation, work, pain, etc., later influenced monasteries and monks. Some beliefs, such as a disdain for cultural and political norms went against the teachings of Christ.

Information sign More: Cynical about cynicism

38. Study as exercise as an ascetic
Interestingly, the Latin word "studere""study" and is used in the Latin Vulgate in Acts 24:16.

Verse routeActs 24:16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men. [kjv]
Verse routeεν τουτω και αυτος ασκω απροσκοπον συνειδησιν εχειν προς τον θεον και τους ανθρωπους δια παντος [gnt]
Verse routestudeo … [v]

The last definition (four of four) of the ancient Greek word is "practice", "exercise", "train" as if this definition were added from influence of how the word was later translated from the Bible.

39. German and modern Greek
Verse routeActs 24:16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men. [kjv]
Verse routeεν τουτω και αυτος ασκω απροσκοπον συνειδησιν εχειν προς τον θεον και τους ανθρωπους δια παντος [gnt]
Verse routeübe … [lu]


40. Extra work
The danger of all three groups was not of false doctrine but had to with requiring "extra" work that was not needed. This extra work could lead to missed opportunities and could lead to someone (e.g., leadership) taking advantage of the situation for their own purposes. Thus, Paul does not want to alienate these groups by using "beware" but only "see".

This would have been "be aware" of what they are doing which, in English, narrowed over time to "beware" is in a dangerous situation.

41. Evil workers
Verse routePhilippians 3:2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. [kjv]
Verse routeβλεπετε τους κυνας βλεπετε τους κακους εργατας βλεπετε την κατατομην [gnt]
Verse routevidete canes videte malos operarios videte concisionem [v]

The ancient Greek word "κακός""bad, worthless, useless" but is often translated in the GNT as "evil". Jesus uses the word for the "sick" as in those who are not physically or spiritually healthy (or holy).

Information sign More: Matthew 9:12 The healthy make a strong case for evil sick time
Information sign More: Happy Holidays and the Wassail
Information sign More: Evil training is toilsome work: no pain no gain
Information sign More: Overly burdened in the cares and concerns of evil

42. Concision
Verse routePhilippians 3:2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. [kjv]
Verse routeβλεπετε τους κυνας βλεπετε τους κακους εργατας βλεπετε την κατατομην [gnt]
Verse routevidete canes videte malos operarios videte concisionem [v]

The Greek word for "concision" is used only here in the GNT and LXX (Septuagint).

It could refer to those of the Jewish faith who had many extra rules (or horns) which were not necessary for the Christian faith of Jesus.

It could refer to "circumcision" as in the following verses. The Greek word for "beware" is that of "see" so a negative connotation requires a context based on the meaning of the words.

43. Special knowledge
Verse routeJohn 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. [kjv]
Verse routeεν τουτω γνωσονται παντες οτι εμοι μαθηται εστε εαν αγαπην εχητε εν αλληλοις [gnt]
Verse routecognoscentdilectionem … [v]

The ancient Greek word "γνῶσις""inquiry, knowledge" and is related to the English word "knowledge" where the "gn" and "kn" are linguistically related. By the end of the first century, this Greek word became associated with those who claimed a "special knowledge" of Jesus, God, etc. The Latin word "dilectio""love" and is the source of the Latin word "delicatus""alluring, charming" as in the English word "delicacy".

To "know" is not to be "ignorant".

44. John 13:35
   John 13:35 
 All 
KJV: By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
Greek: εν τουτω γνωσονται παντες οτι εμοι μαθηται εστε εαν αγαπην εχητε εν αλληλοις
Latin: in hoc cognoscent omnes quia mei discipuli estis si dilectionem habueritis ad invicem

45. Gnostic
In Christian historical terms, the name "gnostic" is used to refer to someone who claims to have "special" knowledge that one needs to be a Christian. The gnostic ideas were not prevalent until later. Think about it. It is hard to claim that one needs special knowledge about Jesus when there were eye witnesses still alive. One would not get very far.

What was prevalent at this time were those who would claim that extra work was needed.

Paul does not appear to be addressing "gnostics" in chapter 3 of Philippians. It is hard to start a "gnostic" movement when eyewitnesses are still alive. Any "gnostic" (false) beliefs were addressed to the leadership in chapters 1 and 2.

Information sign More: Gnosticism and the point in time fallacy

46. Philippians 3:2
 All 
KJV: Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.
Greek: βλεπετε τους κυνας βλεπετε τους κακους εργατας βλεπετε την κατατομην
Latin: videte canes videte malos operarios videte concisionem

47. Circumcision of God
Verse routePhilippians 3:3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. [kjv]
Verse routeημεις γαρ εσμεν η περιτομη οι πνευματι θεου λατρευοντες και καυχωμενοι εν χριστω ιησου και ουκ εν σαρκι πεποιθοτες [gnt]
Verse routecircumcisiospiritugloriamurfiduciam … [v]

This "rejoice" is of "boasting" and is a different Greek word than used in verse 1 for "greet". The "circumcision" is abstract and in the spirit and not physical and in the flesh.

The ideas of Jesus are abstract of the "spirit" first as "faith" and then finding manifestation in the "truth" of "reality" as in "works" and "love".

48. John
Jesus talks to the woman at the well in John 4.
Verse routeJohn 4:24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. [kjv]
Verse routeπνευμα ο θεος και τους προσκυνουντας αυτον εν πνευματι και αληθεια δει προσκυνειν [gnt]
Verse routespiritusspirituveritateadorare [v]

Verse route14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. [kjv]
Verse routeλεγει αυτω ιησους εγω ειμι η οδος και η αληθεια και η ζωη ουδεις ερχεται προς τον πατερα ει μη δι εμου [gnt]
Verse routeviaveritasvita … [v]


49. John 14:6 Way truth and life
Verse routeJohn 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. [kjv]
Verse routeλεγει αυτω ιησους εγω ειμι η οδος και η αληθεια και η ζωη ουδεις ερχεται προς τον πατερα ει μη δι εμου [gnt]
Verse routeviaveritasvita … [v]

Levels of truth Way Truth Life
Jesus is the "way", "truth" and "life".
In Latin, these three words start with "v": "via", "veritas" and "vita". The Greek and Hebrew words for "truth" have to do with "reality" and not "logic" or "opinion". Thus, Jesus is the "way" (opinion as in glory), the "truth" (reality as in science) and the "life" (logic as in information).

Information sign More: Greek truth as reality
Information sign More: Hebrew truth as reality
Information sign More: Truth types and 1 John

50. John 14:6

   John 14:6 
 All 
KJV: Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Greek: λεγει αυτω ο ιησους εγω ειμι η οδος και η αληθεια και η ζωη ουδεις ερχεται προς τον πατερα ει μη δι εμου
Latin: dicit ei Iesus ego sum via et veritas et vita nemo venit ad Patrem nisi per me

51. John 4:24
   John 4:24 
 All 
KJV: God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
Greek: πνευμα ο θεος και τους προσκυνουντας αυτον εν πνευματι και αληθεια δει προσκυνειν
Latin: spiritus est Deus et eos qui adorant eum in spiritu et veritate oportet adorare

52. Nicodemus
In John 3, Jesus talked to Nicodemus about the "spirit" as abstract and not physical.

Verse routeJohn 3:8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. [kjv]
Verse routeSpiritusvult spiratvocemaudisSpiritu [v]
Verse routeτο πνευμα οπου θελει πνει και την φωνην αυτου ακουεις αλλ ουκ οιδας ποθεν ερχεται και που υπαγει ουτως εστιν πας ο γεγεννημενος εκ του πνευματος [gnt]
Verse routespirit brethithwoleheristvoisspirit. [wy]
Verse routewynde blowethlistethhearestsoundesprete. [ty]

For some reason, in the Middle Ages, the "spirit" became "wind". Both Greek and Latin have a word for "wind" but that word is not used.

53. John 3:8
   John 3:8 
 All 
KJV: The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.
Greek: το πνευμα οπου θελει πνει και την φωνην αυτου ακουεις αλλ ουκ οιδας ποθεν ερχεται και που υπαγει ουτως εστιν πας ο γεγεννημενος εκ του πνευματος
Latin: Spiritus ubi vult spirat et vocem eius audis sed non scis unde veniat et quo vadat sic est omnis qui natus est ex Spiritu
Wycliffe: The spirit brethith where he wole, and thou herist his vois, but thou wost not, fro whennus he cometh, ne whidir he goith; so is ech man that is borun of the spirit.
Tyndale: The wynde bloweth where he listeth and thou hearest his sounde: but canst not tell whence he cometh and whether he goeth. So is every man that is boren of the sprete.

54. Three and three
Three "negative" aspects to "see" or "be aware of":
Verse routePhilippians 3:2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. [kjv]
Verse routeβλεπετε τους κυνας βλεπετε τους κακους εργατας βλεπετε την κατατομην [gnt]
Verse routevidete canes videte malos operarios videte concisionem [v]

Three "positive" aspects to "see" or "be aware of":
Verse route3:3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. [kjv]


55. Philippians 3:3
 All 
KJV: For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.
Greek: ημεις γαρ εσμεν η περιτομη οι πνευματι θεω θεου λατρευοντες και καυχωμενοι εν χριστω ιησου και ουκ εν σαρκι πεποιθοτες
Latin: nos enim sumus circumcisio qui spiritu Deo servimus et gloriamur in Christo Iesu et non in carne fiduciam habentes

56. Self-confidence
Verse routePhilippians 3:4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: [kjv]
Verse routeκαιπερ εγω εχων πεποιθησιν και εν σαρκι ει τις δοκει αλλος πεποιθεναι εν σαρκι εγω μαλλον [gnt]
Verse routeconfidentiamcarnevideturmagis [v]

Confidence in the flesh was a part of each of the groups mentioned. The "dogs" (ideas of the cynics), "bad workers" (requiring works) and "concision" (extra Jewish rules) are focused on the physical manifestations of the flesh in terms of works and extra rules of the present reality of this world.

Information sign More: Matthew 6:24 A wealth of logical ideas on mammon

57. More
Verse routePhilippians 3:4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: [kjv]
Verse routeκαιπερ εγω εχων πεποιθησιν και εν σαρκι ει τις δοκει αλλος πεποιθεναι εν σαρκι εγω μαλλον [gnt]
Verse routeconfidentiamcarnevideturmagis [v]

The ancient Greek word "μᾶλλον""rather" which is a different meaning than the (apparently) related Latin word "melior""better". The Latin word "magis""more".

58. Philippians 3:4
 All 
KJV: Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more:
Greek: καιπερ εγω εχων πεποιθησιν και εν σαρκι ει τις δοκει αλλος πεποιθεναι εν σαρκι εγω μαλλον
Latin: quamquam ego habeam confidentiam et in carne si quis alius videtur confidere in carne ego magis

59. Paul and his background
Paul will then go on to list his background and qualifications in verses 5 to 13. Some people will be impressed, some will ignore it, some will resent it.

There are ways to involve others in the spirit and truth of Jesus. Paul is saying that all his outstanding achievements make him "worse" than those to whom he is speaking since he expected his "works" to save him.

Future topic Details are left as a future topic.


60. Trash talk
Trash talk is defined as insulting a rival in a disparaging way. To make the case that Paul is trash-talking, one should notice the following. I once heard an entire sermon on these verses based on the premise that Paul is "trash-talking" and, using some twisted logic and not properly translating some words from the Greek, that we should go out and "trash-talk" during the week to others.

This is a case where one should "beware" and not just "be aware".

61. Philippians 3:1-4
Verse routePhilippians 3:1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. [kjv]
Verse route3:2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. [kjv]
Verse routeβλεπετε τους κυνας βλεπετε τους κακους εργατας βλεπετε την κατατομην [gnt]
Verse routevidete canes videte malos operarios videte concisionem [v]
Verse route3:3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. [kjv]
Verse route3:4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: [kjv]

Review: What do these verses say and mean?

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