Righteousness Based on the Law. Philippians 3:6. “Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law blameless.” The law remains unchanging—etched in stone. It is rigid, cold, and demanding; perfect in holiness and precise in righteousness, representing a standard of absolute perfection, yet fulfilling its demands is impossible. The law is emotionless, unwavering, and universal, embedded in every person's soul, but it isn't always read or understood unless someone reads the Bible. It’s like a teacher with a stick to maintain order, unmovable, a scale with weights that can’t be shifted because the standard is unmatched. The law’s standard is far higher than what mortal men can ever reach. It is unreachable because it demands absolute perfection.
The religious practitioners decided to adapt their legal practices into forms they could publicly display. Phylacteries with written words were placed where they could be seen, especially tied on the forehead, by those they encountered. Wearing such a sign on the forehead allowed others to see their religious devotion, and they would be regarded as holy. Their alms were given openly and responsibly so others could see they were following the law. They recited their prayers loudly in public places, hoping to impress others with their connection to God. Even the dress code was strictly followed.
To a law keeper, one’s heart is focused on anxiety about the externals of religion and ensuring they are following the rituals in a way they believe will please God the most. Their ears are open to petty instructions, but there is no smile of contentment or assurance on their lips. The idea that the joy and relief of finally pleasing God would be considered sacrilege is unthinkable. They are compelled to keep trying, hoping that God will be satisfied with them.
Religious days were meticulously observed to avoid displeasing God by forgetting something that needed to be done in a specific way on that day. The number of steps allowed on the Sabbath was strictly followed; so many and no more. Food intake was closely monitored by those constantly trying to gauge outward signs of holiness. Anger was directed at those who celebrated too much, out of fear they might be judged for frivolity. Criticism was directed at those who live with love in their hearts because that might be mistaken for sinfulness.
Those who worked to keep the law were organized against changes that come with outward displays of joy and gladness instead of seriousness and heaviness that weigh a person down. There was strong opposition to biblical commitment from those who read and interpreted the scriptures in their original context. Law-keepers were always secretly afraid they had left something undone. Concern about others' opinions prompted them to persecute those who disagreed with them. They hid their fear behind strict rules, demands, and endless efforts for perfection and righteousness that sinful people cannot attain.
All of these religious acts might have elevated Paul in the eyes of others and even in his own mind until he had the mind of Christ. Now, he has the right perspective when he compares himself to his Lord. Everything he once had and achieved is considered worthless once he gains the mind of Christ. It is important to forget the things of the past, and now we can find our joy in the Lord Jesus Christ. I often ask myself, "What am I willing to change in my life for Christ's sake? What am I honestly willing to lose to become like Him and serve Him wholeheartedly?"