What does Philippians 3:19 mean?
In verse 18, Paul expressed his sorrow over the plight of unsaved false teachers. In this verse, he offers four descriptions regarding their behaviors. First these false teachers are not simply Christians who misunderstood a portion of the gospel. These are unsaved individuals, rejecting the gospel itself, and who will experience destruction apart from faith in Christ. Second, for false teachers, Paul notes their focus on greed. Many false teachers, then and now, seek money in order to make a profit (1 Timothy 6:5), rather than truly serving the Lord. In contrast to Christ-like believers, false teachers are more concerned with their own desires than the needs of other people (Romans 16:18).Third, these false teachers call evil good, and promote sinful actions as being right. More than simply excusing sin, they celebrate it, and take pride in it.
Fourth, the goal of false teachers is not on Christ and being with Him for eternity. In contrast with Paul's teachings, throughout chapter 3, their goal is on the here and now. Their only thought is what they can get out of life—and other people—today. All four of these traits are posed as the opposite of what believers should pursue in following Christ. Believers are to know Christ, be humble, promote what is right, and set their minds on heavenly things.
