*Philippians 3:1-21
Paul warns against relying on earthly achievements and emphasizes the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus.
- Warning Against False Teachers:
- Paul begins by warning the Philippians to watch out for those he describes as “dogs,” “evil workers,” and those of the “circumcision group.”
- He emphasizes the true circumcision as being that of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter of the law.
- Paul’s Personal History and Transformation:
- Paul shares his own background as a Pharisee and a zealous adherent of the Jewish law, claiming he was faultless in legalistic righteousness.
- He considers all his former privileges and achievements as “loss” for the sake of Christ.
- Everything is considered rubbish compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus his Lord, for whom he has lost all things.
- Righteousness Through Faith in Christ:
- Paul highlights the difference between having a righteousness of his own from the law and that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.
- Goal of Knowing Christ and Resurrection:
- His aim is to know Christ, experience the power of His resurrection, participate in His sufferings, and become like Him in His death.
- Paul expresses his hope to attain the resurrection from the dead, not claiming to have already achieved this goal but pressing on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of him.
- Exhortation to Follow His Example:
- Paul encourages the Philippians to follow his example and observe those who live according to the pattern they have in him.
- He contrasts his example with many who live as enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction and who set their minds on earthly things.
- Heavenly Citizenship and Expectation of the Savior:
- The believers are reminded that their citizenship is in heaven, and from there they eagerly await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
- Upon His return, Christ will transform their lowly bodies to be like His glorious body, by the power that enables Him to bring everything under His control.