Philippians 3:18

Many walk. “Walk” is used here and in v. 17 in a figurative sense, referring to conduct. The “many” whose conduct is described here and in v. 19 have been variously identified as (1) the Judaizers (see on v. 2); (2) professing, but backslidden, Christians (cf. Rom. 16:17, 18); (3) apostates, to whose influence the believers were dangerously exposed.

Told you often. During the time of Paul’s first visit to Philippi (Acts 16:12), or possible later visits, or by letters he had written.

Weeping. This expression of deep emotion implies that Paul’s concern was over apostate Christians rather than heathen reprobates. His love for such backsliders moved him to tears (cf. Luke 19:41).

Enemies of the cross. If these persons had been open and avowed enemies of the cross, or had they denied that Christ had died to make an atonement for sin, they would not be so dangerous to the church. But it appears that they professed to be followers of the Saviour, while their lives showed that they were strangers to the power of the gospel. Their minds were on earthly things (v. 19), and “the friendship of the world is enmity with God” (James 4:4). An immoral life cannot be other than enmity to the cross, for Christ died to make us holy.