Paul’s “Skubala” Metaphor: Faith-Based Righteousness Through Intimate Christ-Knowing

Paul’s transformation from valuing religious credentials to prioritizing knowing Christ exemplifies a profound shift in understanding true righteousness. Once proud of his status as a “Hebrew of Hebrews” from the tribe of Benjamin and zealous in persecuting the church, Paul now regards all these former achievements as “rubbish” or “skubala,” a Greek term meaning utterly worthless—comparable to garbage or excrement to be discarded ([41:08], [41:44], [01:00:17]). This strong language highlights that no religious accomplishment can compare to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ.

Righteousness is not derived from personal achievements, adherence to the law, or external religious observance. Instead, it is obtained through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul’s righteousness is explicitly described as “not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law but that which comes through faith in Christ” ([41:44]). This teaching shifts the focus from self-effort to a faith-based, intimate connection with Christ, emphasizing that true righteousness is a gift received through relationship rather than earned by works.

Knowing Christ is an intimate, personal relationship that transcends mere acquaintance or factual knowledge. It is comparable to the deep understanding one has with a close friend or spouse, rather than a superficial interaction ([43:38], [44:50]). True knowledge of Christ involves a relational experience that transforms the believer’s life, not just intellectual assent or witnessing miracles.

This intimate knowledge includes sharing in Christ’s sufferings and resurrection power. Paul expresses a desire “that I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death” ([46:37]). This reveals that the Christian life entails full participation in Christ’s experiences, embracing both suffering and resurrection as integral to knowing Him deeply.

Religious acts or miraculous deeds alone do not guarantee true knowledge of Christ. Jesus’ words in Matthew 7 warn that those who perform miracles in His name but lack genuine relationship will be rejected: “Depart from me, for I never knew you” ([39:20]). True righteousness and acceptance come from doing the will of the Father and cultivating an authentic, intimate relationship with Jesus.

The surpassing worth of knowing Christ surpasses all former gains and achievements. This conviction is not merely theological but deeply personal, inviting believers to value their relationship with Christ above all else ([41:44], [01:00:17]). Righteousness is not about human effort but about what is found in a relationship with Christ, opened through faith and intimacy that only He can provide ([01:02:00]).

In essence, true righteousness and spiritual fulfillment arise from a radical reorientation—from relying on religious pedigree or works to embracing a transformative, intimate knowledge of Christ marked by faith, shared suffering, resurrection power, and authentic relationship.

This article was written by an AI tool for churches, based on a sermon from Harvest Community Church of Irvine, one of 2 churches in Irvine, CA