From Pat

Philippians 3. Part 3

In this last section of chapter 3 we look at v. 15 – 21 – Rejoice and be a good example.

Paul encourages the Philippian Christians to join together, v. 17, and take note of his example and that of other believers. He focuses on the importance of faith in community, sharing with others, walking together, and supporting one another, not going it alone.

Paul then gets emotional as he considers those who are enemies of Christ, v.18, those who choose not to follow him and reject the message of salvation. Paul is drawn to tears in remembering them, knowing their destination will not be with Christ in heaven. Paul refers to people who have chosen a different lifestyle, and who are concerned with earthly pleasures, v. 19. We may also weep over those who do not walk in faith with Jesus, our family, our friends, but we should continue to pray for them and support them through life by being a good example and be led by the spirit to witness to them as opportunities arise.

In contrast to those who seek earthly things Paul focuses the Philippians on their heavenly home and hope. That they should be longing for the celestial promises, longing for the coming of Christ and the transformation of what is temporary to what is eternal.  When praying for his disciples Christ stated that they were in the world but not of it (John 15: 19; John 17: 14 – 16), as are we, with our permanent citizenship and our real destination being in heaven, where our lowly, human bodies will become like Christ’s glorious body. (1 John 3: 2) Do we always choose heavenly riches over what the world offers us? (Matthew 6:19 – 21)

We need to fix our thoughts on our heavenly home by obeying and pleasing God with our lives, however we also need our actions and attitudes here on earth to be filled with compassion and love for others. Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr., is attributed with the quote “Some people are so heavenly minded that they are of no earthly good.” 

Paul concludes chapter 3 with all praise and glory focused on Jesus our saviour who will one day come again and bring all things together under his power and control, v.20 – 21.

Paul’s encouragement to the Philippian Christians in this chapter should also be an encouragement to us. Firstly, to be true to Christ’s teaching, resisting other influences which distract from pursuing only Christ; secondly, to persevere in all circumstances and move forward in faith making Christ known to others and thirdly; to be a good example as we live out our faith together as God’s family, praying and witnessing to those who still do not accept Jesus as their Saviour. In all this we look forward with hope to a time when we will be united with Christ forever and transformed to be like him.

Let’s review this song and ask the Holy Spirit to speak to us as we consider the challenges before us.

All I once held dear, built my life upon
All this world reveres, and wars to own
All I once thought gain I have counted loss
Spent and worthless now, compared to this

Now my heart’s desire is to know You more
To be found in You and known as Yours
To possess by faith what I could not earn
All-surpassing gift of righteousness.

Oh, to know the power of Your risen life
And to know You in Your sufferings
To become like You in Your death, my Lord
So with You to live and never die.

Knowing You, Jesus
Knowing You
There is no greater thing
You’re my all, You’re the best
You’re my joy, my righteousness
And I love You, Lord


Category: The Bridge , Thought for the week