Philippians 3:19 - Idolatry of the Flesh and Shame

The breakdown of Philippians 3:19 reveals a stark contrast between the mindset of the unbeliever and the believer. Paul writes that their god is their belly, indicating that their primary concern is their own desires and appetites, rather than the one true God. This is a stark reminder that idolatry can take many forms, and that our hearts are prone to wander from the worship of the living God to the worship of created things.

Their glory is in their shame, suggesting that they take pride in the very things that should bring them shame, highlighting the depravity of the human heart. This is a tragic state, as it reveals a complete reversal of values, where what is truly shameful is celebrated, and what is truly glorious is despised.

Paul also notes that their mind is set on earthly things, indicating that their perspective is limited to the temporal and the fleeting, rather than the eternal and the heavenly. As Paul writes in Romans 8:28, "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose," this verse serves as a reminder that our minds should be set on things above, not on earthly things. This truth addresses the tendency of the human heart to be consumed by earthly concerns, and highlights the need for a gospel-centered perspective that orients our minds and affections towards heavenly things.

This passage serves as a warning to believers to examine their own hearts and minds, and to ensure that their glory is in the cross of Christ, and their minds are set on heavenly things. The gospel connection is clear, as it is only through the power of the gospel that we can be transformed from a mindset that is earthly and shameful, to one that is heavenly and glorious.