What does it mean to have confidence in the flesh?

The concept of having confidence in the flesh, as discussed in Philippians 3:4-6, describes the tendency to rely on personal achievements, lineage, or religious observance for salvation. Paul recounts his own past, where he had every reason to boast from a human perspective yet realized that none of it mattered without Christ. This teaching emphasizes that any reliance on our own merits or moral standing is inherently flawed and leads to spiritual emptiness. In contrast, true confidence can only be found in the righteousness that comes from Christ through faith, highlighting our need for divine grace and mercy.