The Secret Enemies of The Cross

As I reflected on the enemies of the Cross, my initial response was that the devil and his angels are the primary adversaries, relentlessly working to thwart God’s will for His children. But who else qualifies as an enemy of the gospel? Anyone or anything that opposes, distorts, or ignores the Word of God, including internal struggles like fear, doubt, and worldly desires. Cultural norms and values that contradict biblical teachings also fall into this category. While the devil and his minions are undoubtedly enemies of the Cross, I made a startling realization: many believers, including myself, have unknowingly become secret enemies of the Cross at some point in our journey. This truth calls you and I to self-reflection, examining our hearts and actions to guarantee that we’re not living in contradiction to the very message we share.

As the apostle Paul warned, ‘For I have often told you, and I say it again with tears, that many live as enemies of the cross of Christ’ (Philippians 3:18). While it’s possible to unknowingly drift into the enemy zone, it’s a conscious decision to remain there. Let’s take a moment to consider this: if you knew something displeased a loved one, wouldn’t you go out of your way to change? Whether it’s a habit you struggle with, a hurtful behaviour, or even something you personally enjoy doing,”wouldn’t you make an effort to please them? As followers of Christ, we’re called to strive for a similar transformation. We may never fully attain Jesus’ perfection, but with the Holy Spirit’s guidance, we can continually grow in His likeness. Let’s make a deliberate choice to surrender our will to His, and become more like Him with each passing day.

✝️ I urge us to be intentional every day about not becoming enemies of the Cross.