In Philippians 3:2, Paul writes, “Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.” I want to key in on that word “concision.” This word was a spin off of the word “circumcision.” You see, in Paul’s day, there was a group of people called the Judaizers. They believed faith was an essential element in salvation, but they also added works as a prerequisite for salvation. There are many people today who attempt to add to the work Christ completed on Calvary’s cross. But the word of God specifically states in Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not the works, lest any man should boast.”

As Christ hung upon the cross, there was a time, as his body was wracked with pain and as He neared death, that He looked up to heaven and cried out, “It is finished.” Everything that needed to be done to reconcile man to his Creator was accomplished by Jesus in this selfless sacrifice of Himself. All a person needs to do is to call upon the name of Jesus, recognizing their sinfulness, repenting of their sin, and accepting His atoning work at Calvary’s cross. For the Word of God says in Acts 2:21, “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the lord shall be saved.”

Beware of those who would add stipulations to salvation. Christ paid the ultimate price to redeem us to the Father. All we have to do is accept His gracious gift.