Note 5 at Phil. 3:19: As explained in note 1 at 1 Corinthians 1:18, p. 862, "the cross" is speaking of everything Jesus provided for us through His death, and specifically the grace by which everything was provided. Therefore, those who are enemies of the cross are trusting in themselves and their own goodness. They are their own savior and they live to satisfy themselves, not God. So, saying their God is their belly really is a very descriptive way of characterizing people who are enemies of the cross (see note 2 at Rom. 16:18, p. 851).

Note 6 at Phil. 3:19: This last characterization of these enemies of the cross of Christ (v. 18) is amazing. He says they "mind earthly things." That sounds descriptive of most Christians! No doubt there are natural things that everyone has to tend to, but there is a danger of being too earthly minded. As Romans 8:6 says, "For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace". We must put a priority on spiritual things and constantly be aware that a preoccupation with earthly things is not good.

Note 7 at Phil. 3:19: Notice that verses 18-19 are a parenthetical phrase. This means that verse 20 is a continuation of the thought Paul was giving in verse 17. In verse 17 Paul told the Philippians to follow his example, and then in verse 20 he explains that his lifestyle was consistent with his heavenly citizenship. The parenthetical phrase contrasted the conduct of Paul's critics with his exemplary example.