Philippians 3:17-18

Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you.

(v17, NIV)

Paul calls them to imitate him. There are a number of times where Paul encourages his readers to imitate him. It's not wrong to imitate others, but we must remember that we are all ultimately following the Lord Jesus Christ. However, we can imitate others as an intermediate goal.

For, as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.

(v18, NIV)

Follow Jesus and follow Paul's example. Press on towards the goal and don't give up. Would you rather the alternative? There are some who do not follow this path. Paul describes these people as enemies of the cross of Christ. If you're not for Christ, you're against him. You are even his enemy. In this day and age, some may dress it up as being accepting of other people's religion. However, a choice that is not for Jesus is against it. Being indecisive or being lukewarm does not save you either. You are an enemy of the cross of Christ. You are an enemy of everything Christ stood for in his humble sacrifice on the cross as payment for our sins. Paul sheds tears for these people. It is quite sad to see people living in opposition to the Lord Jesus Christ. Salvation is offered freely to all, yet some do not receive it. It's sad and unfortunate; Paul is saddened by their opposition to the Lord Jesus Christ whom he loves. Cry for them and do not follow their example. Follow Paul's example; follow the Lord Jesus Christ.