Philippians 3:17-18 Brothers, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as you have us for an ensample. Paul was a model pastor. 1. Watchful: his eyes were ever on the Churches. 2. Honest: he did not flinch from telling the whole truth. 3. Affectionate — "Tell you even weeping." Paul wept for three things. I. THEIR GUILT. 1. They were sensual persons. There were those in the early Church who would go from the Lord's table to heathen feasts, others indulged in the lusts of the flesh. And are not some professors so fond of the table and dress as to make a god of their body. 2. They did mind earthly things, and so we have ambitious, covetous Christians. They gloried in their shame, and a professing sinner generally does so more than any one else. II. THE MISCHIEF THEY WERE DOING. He says emphatically that they are the enemies. The infidel, the swearer, the persecutor is an enemy. Christ is wounded in gin palaces, etc., but most grievously of all in the house of His friends. Caesar wept not till Brutus stabbed him. It is honourable to be defeated by enemies, but disgraceful to be betrayed by friends. The wicked professor is the worst enemy because — 1. He grieves the Church more than any one else. 2. Nothing divides the Church so much. 3. Nothing has ever hurt poor sinners more. Many seekers would find sooner if it were not for the ill lives of professors. 4. They give the devil more theme for laughter, and the enemy more cause for joy than any other class. III. BECAUSE HE KNEW THEIR DOOM — "Destruction." (C. H. Spurgeon.) Parallel Verses KJV: Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. |
    |