Growing with Joy – Philippians 3:12-21

Posted on October 7, 2025 by dkoop

Are you growing in your relationship with Christ?  In this post we will see we can grow with joy in our relationship with Christ (using the Life Application Commentary.) Paul changed from accounting language to athletic language, saying that his goal was to know Christ, to be like Christ, to grow in Christ and to be all Christ had in mind for him. This goal absorbed all Paul’s energy. This provides a helpful example. We should not let anything take our eyes off our goal—knowing Christ. With the single-mindedness of an athlete in training, we must lay aside everything harmful and forsake anything that may distract us from being growing like Christ. What is holding you back?

3:12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.NIV Obtain can mean to take hold of, to receive, to make one’s own, to apprehend in the moral or spiritual sense. So Paul may have been saying that he had not fully grasped all the meaning of Christ in his life. There is more to receive by pressing on. The power of Christ in Paul’s life aroused him to want to know Christ better, and this would take a lifetime.

Paul saw the Christian life as a process. While believers are considered righteous when they accept salvation, their entire lives are marked by growth toward Christlikeness. Complete perfection will not be obtained until Christ’s second coming, when he will take his people with him. While Paul may have seemed like a nearly perfect Christian to his Philippian friends, he emphasized that he had not obtained perfect knowledge of Christ, the power of his resurrection, the fellowship of his suffering, and conformity to his death (3:10). All of these were part of the process of sanctification—of getting to know Christ better and better as he lived the Christian life. And even Paul, despite all his sufferings and victories for Christ, still had much to learn. He had not yet been made perfect. He knew that only upon Christ’s return would all believers be made perfect in knowledge and experience, but he was willing to press on to take hold of the goal—living and working for Christ—because of what Christ had done for him. “Pressing on” is a hunting term meaning to chase or hunt down. Christ Jesus took hold of Paul almost thirty years earlier when Paul was converted on the road to Damascus. Christ laid hold of Paul so that Paul could lay hold of the prize—knowing Christ completely.

LIFE APPLICATION – PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP
True Christian faith is often called a “personal relationship” with Jesus Christ, and no verse describes it better than this. A relationship requires two persons, each actively searching, seeking, and building a bond between them.
In your spiritual life, God takes the initiative (Christ takes hold of us), then we enter into it (pressing on) to pursue all that our new friendship offers. We are truly relating to each other, together pursuing God’s goal for all creation—eternal life free of all pain, all death, all sin. Are you pressing on, taking responsibility for your progress in faith and character? What steps are you taking to know Christ better?

3:13 Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.NRSV Paul had not yet attained perfection or complete knowledge of Christ. Unlike the Judaizers, Paul did not consider that he had achieved spiritual maturity; he was not perfect, but he lived in absolute confidence of his ultimate salvation. Christians know they will be saved, yet they must have perfection as their goal (Matthew 5:48) while not pretending that sin does not exist (1 John 1:8). Like Paul, they should not dwell on the past. The past should not be used as a barrier to the future, as an excuse for dropping out, or for avoiding proper spiritual conduct in their relationship with God. Believers should be devoted to God whatever their present circumstances (Luke 9:62; 17:31-32) and should strain forward to what lies ahead. Paul would forget his past with all its credentials and accomplishments (and sins) and, like a runner in a race with his whole body reaching for the finish line, would press on toward the goal (3:14).

LIFE APPLICATION – LET IT GO
We have all done things for which we are ashamed, and we live in the tension of what we have been and what we want to be. Because our hope is in Christ, however, we can let go of past guilt and look forward to what God will help us become. Don’t dwell on your past. Instead, grow in the knowledge of God by concentrating on your relationship with him now. Realize that you are forgiven, and then move on to a life of faith and obedience. Look forward to a fuller and more meaningful life because of your hope in Christ.

3:14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.NRSV As a runner straining every effort toward the finish line, Paul pressed on toward the goal. In Greek athletic games, the winner’s prize was a garland or palm branch. While Paul didn’t identify the prize, it seems from his writing above that the prize refers to gaining full knowledge of Jesus Christ (see also 1 Corinthians 9:24; 2 Timothy 4:7-8). Paul aimed to win the prize, but all who finish the race win it as well. The full knowledge of Christ is the final prize for which believers gladly lay aside all else.

Scholars have presented several views for the meaning of the heavenly call, also translated “called me heavenward” (niv) or the “upward call” (nasb). The Greek words ano kleseos literally mean “high or upward calling.”

  • Some scholars regard it as the rapture of the church, the call to God’s eternal presence. The niv “called me heavenward” could support this view. However, kleseos is not normally used for the rapture of the church.
  • Other scholars have seen it to mean the call to be saved. First Thessalonians 2:12 says, “Live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory” (niv). God’s call on the apostle occurred on the road to Damascus. Paul answered that call and had been in the race ever since. Every believer, not just Paul, receives this call of God to salvation (1 Corinthians 1:26; 7:20; Ephesians 1:18; 2 Thessalonians 1:11; 2 Timothy 1:9). God summons the person out of a life of sinful rebellion upward into a life of fellowship with himself based on what Christ Jesus has done.
  • Still other scholars connect it to the high purpose or high vocation of Paul as apostle. Hebrews 3:1 says, “Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess” (niv). This view, as well as the previous one, equates the nature of the prize with the substance of the calling, making “of the calling” equal to “the prize.”
  • Yet because of Paul’s use of the metaphor of athletic games, it seems more natural to understand the “call” as the calling of athletes up to the winner’s stand. Thus, the heavenly call is the summons to win the victor’s prize of salvation.
LIFE APPLICATION – LONG-DISTANCE RUNNING
Like a dedicated athlete, Paul wanted to run the race and gain full knowledge of Christ. The first-time marathon runner has periodic thoughts about quitting, especially during the last six miles. By then, the novelty of the experience has faded to the dull regularity of the pace; early adrenaline has given way to soreness and fatigue. Others around him or her are limping along, and some have dropped out entirely.
But dedicated runners must keep going. Somewhere out there is a finish line. Ask yourself these questions:
 What kind of race are you running for Christ?
 What prize do you seek?
 What kind of opposition do you face in your struggle to live as a Christian?
 How can Christ help you stay on track and reach the goal?
What spiritual workout or training this week will help you run your Christian marathon?
In what way can you renew your commitment to press on toward the goal of being like Christ?

3:15 All of us who are mature should take such a view of things.NIV After Paul described his spiritual goals, he explained to the Philippians that all mature believers should take such a view. That is, they too ought to be pressing on toward the goal. Mature believers would understand that they could not, in their own humanity, gain perfection and acceptance by God (as opposed to the teachings of the Judaizers). Yet because of their love for Christ, they willingly pressed on to follow his example in order to become more like him in life, all the while knowing that they were promised to know him fully upon their death (or his return).

And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.NIV This verse betrays some of the problems that faced the Philippian church. Spiritual pride had found its way into some of the believers; apparently a few felt that they had reached a holier status than their fellow believers, causing them to look down on those whom they thought less “mature.” Yet Paul made clear that those who were truly mature were those who realized their dependence on God. They pressed on, not to make themselves good enough or to gain credentials by their accomplishments; rather, they pressed on to know their Savior better. Whatever problem of pride threatened to divide the Philippian church, Paul stopped it. This was the final word on the matter; Paul invoked the illumination of God himself to clarify the truth of his words to those who thought differently. Those who were mature were to be committed to what Paul had said. And to anyone who thought differently about minor points, God would clarify the truth. God would lead them to the truth if they would keep their minds open.

LIFE APPLICATION – A PERFECT SCORE?
Sometimes trying to live a perfect Christian life can be so difficult that it leaves us drained and discouraged. We may feel so far from perfect that we can never please God with our lives. Paul used “perfect” (3:12) to mean mature or complete, not flawless in every detail. Those who are mature should press on in the Holy Spirit’s power, knowing that Christ will reveal and fill in any discrepancy between what we are and what we should be. Christ’s provision is no excuse for lagging devotion, but it provides relief and assurance for those who feel driven.

3:16 Only let us live up to what we have already attained.NIV Christian maturity involves acting on the guidance that we have already received. Live up (stochein) is a military term meaning “to keep in line” or “to keep step.” Paul knew the believers were in different stages, but everyone needed to be faithful to what they understood. The Christian community needed to march forward together. Paul did not want the believers in Philippi to fail to live up to what they already had been taught. As they pressed on toward the goal, they should not use their lack of complete knowledge as an excuse for taking lightly what they knew or for getting sidetracked. They should continue to learn and grow, while at the same time govern their lives by the light they had already received. Believers must live up to what they already know before they can expect to learn more.

3:17 Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us.NRSV Paul used these two key words for discipleship: “imitate” and “example.” “Imitate” means not only to become like but also to obey. “Example” means a model or blueprint to use as a pattern for your life. Paul challenged the Philippians to pursue Christlikeness by imitating Paul’s own example and the examples of others whose lives were based on his (those “mature” believers in 3:15). This was not egotism on Paul’s part, for Paul always focused on Jesus Christ and urged the believers to also follow the example of others who followed Christ. They should not follow false teachers or the enemies of the cross (3:18). Instead, as Paul focused his life on being like Christ, so should they. Paul wrote to the Corinthians, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 niv). The Gospels may not yet have been in circulation, so Paul could not tell them to read the Bible to see what Christ was like. Therefore, he urged them to imitate him as a practical guide for conduct. That Paul could tell people to follow his example is a testimony to his character. Can you do the same? What kind of follower would a new Christian become if he or she imitated you?

 LIFE APPLICATION- LIVING UP OR DROPPING OUT
William James Sidis was a well-known child prodigy who taught university mathematics at age 16, but his adult years were spent collecting and memorizing streetcar schedules. He died alone in a ragged apartment, destitute and broken. His rare talents only briefly helped anyone.
As Christians, we must be responsible to use what we have been given. We must guard against dropping out—quitting—and squandering talents. We must not worry about all that we don’t know. We’ve got plenty to do using what we have.

3:18 For many live as enemies of the cross of Christ; I have often told you of them, and now I tell you even with tears.NRSV The reason for Paul’s admonition to follow his example was to turn the believers away from following the bad examples of the false teachers, the Judaizers, and any others who claimed to be believers but refused to live up to Christ’s model of servanthood and self-sacrifice. All of these people satisfied their own desires before even thinking about the needs of others. All of them focused on their own attainments, thus making them enemies of the cross of Christ. Believers cannot count on personal achievement and at the same time accept Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Either Christ’s sacrifice was all-sufficient and we can do nothing more, or Christ’s sacrifice wasn’t enough and we have to keep on trying to obey God’s laws in order to be made acceptable to him. Such attempts to nullify Christ’s sacrifice saddened Paul greatly. Paul had warned the Philippians about false teachings, and he continued to do so with tears.

The “enemies of the cross” were probably Judaizers—those Jewish Christians who were overly zealous for their law. But some scholars think Paul was referring to another false teaching that had surfaced, called “antinomianism.” Those who subscribed to this teaching believed that once their souls had been redeemed by Christ, what they did in their bodies no longer mattered. Thus they threw aside morality and decency, believing that nothing done in the body could stain their already-redeemed souls. Paul may have been combating such teaching in Philippi; however, because there is no mention of two heresies in chapter 4, Paul was most likely targeting the Judaizers.

3:19 Their destiny is destruction.NIV Four characteristics were true of these “enemies of the cross” (3:18). If Judaizers were in view, Paul was explaining that because they refused to accept Christ’s sacrifice on their behalf, they could not be saved. Their only alternative was destruction—eternal separation from God. “You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace” (Galatians 5:4 niv). Any false teachers, whether or not they believed they’d been saved, would find their destiny to be different than they had hoped.

(2) Their god is their stomach,NIV meaning they worshiped those temporal elements that satisfy only physical desires. Focusing on the Judaizers, Paul may have been pointing out their absorption with the various food laws. Attempting to keep the laws of distinction between clean and unclean food occupied all their time, causing them to focus only on their stomachs. If Paul were attacking antinomianism, he was pointing out their gluttony and unrestrained fulfilling of physical desires (Romans 16:18; 1 Corinthians 6:13; Jude 11).

(3) Their glory is in their shame.NIV Several meanings are possible for this phrase. Paul may have meant that these false teachers were heaping praise on themselves instead of on God. They gloried in themselves, when they should have been ashamed so that they could turn to God for salvation. If the Judaizers and their teaching about circumcision was again in mind, Paul may have been referring to them glorying in the fact of their being circumcised. Instead of bringing honor, circumcision would bring shame because they were trusting in it for salvation. If antinomianism was in view, Paul may have been speaking of sensuality and carnality in general (see Hosea 4:7).

(4) Their mind is on earthly things.NIV Paul was referring to the Judaizers’ dependence on credentials, accomplishments, law-keeping, etc., for salvation. If he had been attacking the antinomians, he would stand against their belief that once saved, people could do whatever they desired. Such an attitude will draw people’s focus away from Christ to earthly pleasures. Paul wrote to the believers in Colosse, who faced false teaching, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2 niv).

LIFE APPLICATION: PRIORITIES
Paul gets tough with mere earthlings here: people who live to appease their appetites, who believe so strongly in their greatness that they become slaves to pride.
What horrible people these must be, so concerned with earthly trivia that even at worship their minds wander to dinner arrangements and weekly appointments. So consumed with work that worship is inconvenient. So busy planning the next party that prayer gets pushed aside once again. Paul wants none of these people in the church.
Are we in danger of being enemies of the Cross? Is too much of our time spent on efforts that will not endure in eternity, seeking earthly pleasures, satisfying our physical desires? We must set our minds on knowing Christ, not on pursuing the things of this world.

3:20 But our citizenship is in heaven.NIV While the false teachers had their minds on earthly matters (3:19), believers ought to be yearning for their home. Paul’s speaking of citizenship struck a chord with the Philippians. Philippi was a Roman colony; those who lived in Philippi had their citizenship in far-off Rome, although most of the Philippians had never been there. Roman citizenship was highly prized during Paul’s time. The Christians in Philippi, as proud as they had been of their Roman citizenship (Acts 16:20-21), should have valued even more highly their citizenship in heaven. They lived on earth as a colony of believers who were citizens of another kingdom. They should have thought of themselves as “resident aliens” living temporarily in a foreign country with their home elsewhere. One day they would experience all the special privileges of their heavenly citizenship because they belonged to Christ.

And it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.NRSV Jesus returned to heaven in a cloud after his resurrection. “This same Jesus . . . will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11 niv). Thus believers are expecting the Savior to return from heaven to earth at his second coming. Paul had absolutely no doubt about Christ’s return—although neither he nor anyone else knew or knows when that will happen. But believers are expecting and awaiting his return, when he will “appear a second time, not to deal with sin, but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him” (Hebrews 9:28 nrsv).

LIFE APPLICATION: CITIZENS OF HEAVEN
Citizens of a Roman colony were expected to promote the interests of Rome and maintain the dignity of the city. In the same way, citizens of heaven ought to promote heaven’s interests on earth and lead lives worthy of heavenly citizenship. Too many Christians have failed to transfer their citizenship to heaven. They still seek earthly pleasures and treasures instead of heavenly ones. Paul told the Colossians to set their hearts on the things above, where Christ is (Colossians 3:1-4). Where are your loyalties placed?

Paul very rarely used the word Savior for Jesus Christ in his letters. This may have been because of the frequent secular use of the word to apply to the Caesars. Yet Paul probably used the term here in order to purposely set the Lord Jesus Christ up against the Caesars. While on earth, believers were citizens of their country (the Philippians were citizens of Rome itself and thus under Caesar’s rule), yet absolute loyalty was to the one and only true Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who rules in heaven, where all believers hold their ultimate citizenship.

Paul also used the word to describe Christ’s coming on behalf of those facing persecution and hardship. He would come as Savior, vindicating his people and delivering them from their oppressors.

3:21 Who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.NIV When Christ returns, he will bring everything under his control. There will be no more sin, no more evil rulers, no more persecution of believers. Christ will be King of kings and Lord of lords, ruler over all (Revelation 19:11-16; 21:22-27; see also Psalm 8:6; 1 Corinthians 15:24-28; Hebrews 2:8-9). It also means that Christ will place all our prized possessions “under his control.” It is far better for us to relinquish them now than to have them taken from us later. With that same power, he will transform all believers’ earthly bodies into new bodies. The phrase lowly bodies refers not to the human body as being inherently evil; rather, Paul was speaking of the present state of humiliation and weakness caused by sin, making the body vulnerable to disease, temptation, and death. In contrast, the bodies we will receive when Christ returns will be glorious, like Christ’s resurrected body. Our identities will not change, but our bodies will be like Jesus’ glorified body. This won’t be an external resemblance, but we will share his nature and life (3:10). We will be made alive to God (Romans 6:10-11), brothers and sisters of the firstborn Son, Jesus (Romans 8:29). While the transformation of our souls takes a lifetime of “pressing on,” the transformation of our bodies will be instantaneous at Christ’s return. God will perform this wonderful transformation by the same power that brings everything in creation under Christ’s control.

LIFE APPLICATION: THE GREATEST HOPE
Most people living today with cancer know that their time is limited. Their minds say, “I control my body,” but they know a voracious disease is eating it away. For them, the glorious body Paul describes offers a wonderful hope.
Other diseases—MS, Alzheimer’s, AIDS—wear away until a healthy person weakens and dies. For all afflicted, this verse points to hope.
The aged, blind, and mentally impaired may live without another day of full health. For them, Paul promised Jesus’ power to control and transform in its fullness when he returns. No believer need give in to despair. Each of us must trust Christ to renew our bodies when we live with him in eternity.

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Source: Life Application Bible Commentary – Life Application Bible Commentary – Philippians, Colossians, & Philemon.

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Joy in Jesus – Philippians 3:1-11

Posted on October 7, 2025 by dkoop

True joy is found only in Jesus, but there are things that we hold onto from our past or presently that get in the way of us living for Christ.    It is important to see the total message of this chapter before examining it in detail, so perhaps the following outline will be helpful.

vv. 1-11 vv. 12-16 vv. 17-21
Paul’s past Paul’s present Paul’s future
the accountant the athlete the alien
“I count” “I press” “I look”
new values new vigor new vision

It is easy for us to get wrapped up in “things,” not only the tangible things that we can see, but also the intangibles such as reputation, fame, achievement. Paul writes about “what things were gain” to him (Phil. 3:7); he also mentions “things which are behind” and “things which are before” (Phil. 3:13). In Paul’s case, some of these “things” were intangible, such as religious achievements (Gal. 1:14), a feeling of self-satisfaction, morality. We today can be snared both by tangibles and intangibles, and as a result lose our joy.

But even the tangible things are not in themselves sinful. God made things, and the Bible declares that these things are good (Gen. 1:31). God knows that we need certain things in order to live (Matt. 6:31-34). In fact, He “gives us richly all things to enjoy” (1 Tim. 6:17). But Jesus warns us that our lives do not consist in the abundance of the things that we possess (Luke 12:15). Quantity is no assurance of quality. Many people who have the things money can buy have lost the things that money cannot buy.

The key word in Philippians 3:1-11 is count (Phil. 3:7-8, 13). In the Greek, two different words are used, but the basic idea is the same: to evaluate, to assess. “The unexamined life is not worth living,” said Socrates. Yet, few people sit down to weigh seriously the values that control their decisions and directions. Many people today are the slaves of “things,” and as a result do not experience real Christian joy.

In Paul’s case, the “things” he was living for before he knew Christ seemed to be very commendable: a righteous life, obedience to the Law, the defense of the religion of his fathers. But none of these things satisfied him or gave him acceptance with God.

Like most “religious” people today, Paul had enough morality to keep him out of trouble, but not enough righteousness to get him into heaven! It was not bad things that kept Paul away from Jesus—it was good things! He had to lose his “religion” to find salvation.

One day, Saul of Tarsus, the rabbi, met Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and on that day Saul’s values changed (read Acts 9:1-31). When Saul opened his books to evaluate his wealth, he discovered that apart from Jesus Christ, everything he lived for was only refuse. He explains in this section that there are only two kinds of righteousness (or spiritual wealth)—works righteousness and faith righteousness—and only faith righteousness is acceptable to God.

Works Righteousness (Phil. 3:1-6)

The exhortation (vv. 1-3). “Finally” at this point does not mean Paul is about to close the letter, because he keeps on going. The word means “For the rest,” and introduces the new section. Paul’s “finally” at Philippians 4:18 is the one that means “I am about to close.” Paul has warned the believers at Philippi before, but now he warns them again. “Look out for dogs! Look out for the workers of evil! Look out for the mutilation!” To whom is he referring in this triple warning? The answer takes us back into the early history of the church.

In the early New Testament times there were a group of people who said, “There are also some other things you must add onto your faith, Christ plus works.”  They said they must keep every one of the Jewish laws to be a believer — the Sabbath laws, circumcision, dietary laws, etc.  Those who said that were called Judaizers.  In Philippians 3, Paul is attacking the Judaizers who are adding to the good news.  V. 2-3 “Watch out for those who do evil, those dogs,

When we think of dogs, we think of warm, cuddly pets.  In the New Testament times dogs were not pets.  They were wild scavengers that would attack human beings.  It was the worst thing you could think of to call somebody a dog.

Paul uses his life as an example.  Paul was an ultra religious, law keeping Jew before he knew Christ.  He had tried the rules and regulations way and it didn’t work.

4 I could have confidence in myself if anyone could. If others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more!

SPIRITUAL CONFIDENCE IS NOT FOUND IN

 My Rituals

5 For I was circumcised when I was eight days old,

 Paul says “I was circumcised on the eight day, of the people of Israel.”  We have our own rituals today, sacraments, baptism, communion, catechism, etc.  Never confuse the symbol with the substance.  Rituals do not bring salvation only a relationship with Christ.

  • My Heritage

having been born into a pure-blooded Jewish family

Don’t trust in heritage. Have you ever heard anyone say, “Daddy’s a Christian, My mom was a believer, My uncle was a pastor? ”  You can get religion from your family but you can’t get Christ unless you accept him yourself.

  • My Social Status

that is a branch of the tribe of Benjamin.

Benjamin was a noble tribe Israel. Paul was named after the first king, Saul, who was a Benjamite.

  • My Traditions

So I am a real Jew if there ever was one!

No religious group or denomination has a copyright on truth or a patent on God.

  • My Religion

What’s more, I was a member of the Pharisees, who demand the strictest obedience to the Jewish law.

Don’t trust in religion.  Paul was a religious person.  Paul kept all the rules.  We think of the Pharisees as hypocrites but there were some genuine, sincere ones.  They were the spiritually elite of that age. They took the Ten Commandments and expanded them into 619 other commandments.  They were pros at religion.  Jesus has nothing to do with religion. Religion is man’s attempt to get to God.  Jesus Christ is God’s attempt to get to man.  That’s a relationship and that’s a big difference.

  • My Sincerity

6 And zealous? Yes, in fact, I harshly persecuted the church.

Maybe some of you think if your bad works are a minimum and are good works outnumber them then you will make it to heaven.  But God doesn’t grade on a curve.  He judges by a perfect standard — Jesus Christ.  To be good enough to get to God you’d have to be as good as God.

  • My Righteousness

And I obeyed the Jewish law so carefully that I was never accused of any fault.

Today we have people saying; “I read the Bible, I go to church…”The point is there is nothing wrong with any of these things. The problem is thinking that they give me points with God, and they don’t.

In all of the religious accomplishments Paul mentions in verse 4, God is not mentioned once.  You can be religious and not know Christ.  If you have religion and no relationship, you don’t have Christianity, you have churchianity.  The answer to your problems and America’s problems is not religion. It is a person, Jesus Christ.

MY CONFIDENCE IS FOUND IN…

  • Knowing Christ

 7 I once thought all these things were so very important, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. 8 Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the priceless gain of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.

 Paul says his number one goal in life is to know Christ better and better.  How well do you know Jesus Christ?  I know a lot of Christians who have been Christians, 5, 10, or more years and they really don’t know Jesus Christ well.  There is a big difference between knowing and knowing about.

Never stop growing and developing your relationship with Christ.  So many Christians stay too close to where they “got in” to the Christian life.  They haven’t grown one bit since they made that initial decision.

Paul says that his number one ambition in life is to know Christ at the end of his life.  He’s in jail in Rome.  He’s getting ready to die.  He knew Christ already, but he wanted to know Him even better.

  I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I may have Christ

The translators here are being polite, delicate.  “Garbage” and “rubbish” are not the words.  The word in Greek is the word for “dung”, “manure”.

COMPARED TO CHRIST, EVERTHING ELSE IS…

  • Dung

Paul points out that life consists of trade-offs.  That’s an important lesson we must learn in life.  He said he gave up something in order to gain something else.  He gave up his religion in order to have a relationship.

What I have is worth more than everything I gave up.  We give up guilt and gain a clear conscious.  We give up worry and gain a power for living.  We give up frustration and lack of purpose in life and gain real meaning and purpose in life.  We give up going to hell and gain going to heaven.  We gave up trying to solve all our problems in our own power and gain having the resources of God to help solve our problems.  That’s a pretty good trade-off!

What are you afraid of giving up for God?  If you become a Christian, get really committed to Christ, really live for Jesus Christ, what are you afraid is going to change in your life that you don’t want to give up?  Whatever that is, that is the very thing that needs to be given up.

9 and become one with him. I no longer count on my own goodness or my ability to obey God’s law, but I trust Christ to save me. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith. 10 As a result, I can really know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I can learn what it means to suffer with him, sharing in his death, 11 so that, somehow, I can experience the resurrection from the dead!

In a transaction we cannot completely understand, when Jesus died on the cross, we died to our former life. Christ took our punishment on himself, so God looks at us as though we have died to sin and then have been raised, along with Christ, to newness of life. Believers must first die to self before they can live for God. This is described in what Paul wrote to the Galatians: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20).

When we are united with Christ by trusting in him, we experience the power that raised him from the dead. That same mighty power will help us live morally renewed and regenerated lives. But before we can walk in newness of life, we must also die to sin. Just as Christ’s resurrection gives us his power to live for him, his crucifixion marks the death of our old sinful nature. We can’t know the victory of the Resurrection without personally applying the Crucifixion.

What are you really living for? Remember the game Trivial Pursuit?  That name describes how a lot of people live.  Spending their lives on things that won’t last.  Acts 27 has a story of a ship that was beginning to sink.  In order to be saved they took the very cargo they were carrying and threw it overboard to save the ship.  That is a parable of life.  The very things we’re carrying through life we have to let go of in order to really experience life and save our lives.  What do you need to let go of to grab a hold of Christ?

Darrell

www.Upwards.Church

Message Audio/Video and Outline: https://upwards.church/leander-campus/watch-now-message-videos

Watch Messages: YouTube-Upwards Church

Facebook: Upwards Church

Read Along Daily Bible Reading: YouVersion (https://www.bible.com/organizations/370f8a6e-16bc-464f-8c43-0b7623fd2952)

Sources: Bible Exposition Commentary (BE Series) – New Testament – The Bible Exposition Commentary – New Testament, Volume 2.

Life Application Bible Commentary – Life Application Bible Commentary – Philippians, Colossians, & Philemon.

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Following with Joy – Philippians 2

Posted on September 30, 2025 by dkoop

People can rob us of our joy. Paul was facing his problems with people at Rome (Phil. 1:15-18) as well as with people in Philippi, and it was the latter who concerned him the most. When Epaphroditus brought a generous gift from the church in Philippi, and good news of the church’s concern for Paul, he also brought the bad news of a possible division in the church family. Apparently there was a double threat to the unity of the church; false teachers coming in from without (Phil. 3:1-3) and disagreeing members within (Phil. 4:1-3). What Euodia (“fragrance”) and Syntyche (“fortunate”) were debating about, Paul does not state.

Paul knew what some church workers today do not know, that there is a difference between unity and uniformity. True spiritual unity comes from within; it is a matter of the heart. Uniformity is the result of pressure from without. This is why Paul opens this section appealing to the highest possible spiritual motives (Phil. 2:1-4). Since the believers at Philippi are “in Christ,” this ought to encourage them to work toward unity and love, not division and rivalry. In a gracious way, Paul is saying to the church, “Your disagreements reveal that there is a spiritual problem in your fellowship. It isn’t going to be solved by rules or threats; it’s going to be solved when your hearts are right with Christ and with each other.” Paul wanted them to see that the basic cause was selfishness, and the cause of selfishness is pride. There can be no joy in the life of the Christian who puts himself above others.

The secret of joy in spite of circumstances is the single mind. The secret of joy in spite of people is the submissive mind. The key verse is: “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better [more important] than themselves” (Phil. 2:3). In Philippians 1, it is “Christ first” and in Philippians 2 it is “others next” Paul the soul winner in Philippians 1 becomes Paul the servant in Philippians 2.

It is important that we understand what the Bible means by “humility.” The humble person is not one who thinks meanly of himself; he simply does not think of himself at all! (I think Andrew Murray said that.) Humility is that grace that, when you know you have it, you have lost it. The truly humble person knows himself and accepts himself (Rom. 12:3). He yields himself to Christ to be a servant, to use what he is and has for the glory of God and the good of others. “Others” is the key idea in this chapter (Phil. 2:3-4); the believer’s eyes are turned away from himself and focused on the needs of others.

The “submissive mind” does not mean that the believer is at the beck and call of everybody else or that he is a “religious doormat” for everybody to use! Some people try to purchase friends and maintain church unity by “giving in” to everybody else’s whims and wishes. This is not what Paul is suggesting at all. The Scripture puts it perfectly: “ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake” (2 Cor. 4:5). If we have the single mind of Philippians 1, then we will have no problem with the submissive mind of Philippians 2.

Paul gives us four examples of the submissive mind: Jesus Christ (Phil. 2:1-11), Paul himself (Phil. 2:12-18), Timothy (Phil. 2:19-24), and Epaphroditus (Phil. 2:25-30). Of course, the great Example is Jesus, and Paul begins with Him.

Jesus Christ illustrates the four characteristics of how we can follow Christ with His mindset.

He Thinks of Others, Not Himself (Phil. 2:5-6)

The “mind” of Christ means the “attitude” Christ exhibited. “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus” (Phil. 2:5, NIV). After all, outlook determines outcome. If the outlook is selfish, the actions will be divisive and destructive. James says the same thing (see James 4:1-10).

These verses in Philippians take us to eternity past. “Form of God” has nothing to do with shape or size. God is Spirit (John 4:24), and as such is not to be thought of in human terms. When the Bible refers to “the eyes of the Lord” or “the hand of the Lord,” it is not claiming that God has a human shape. Rather, it is using human terms to describe divine attributes (the characteristics of God) and activities. The word “form” means “the outward expression of the inward nature.” This means that in eternity past, Jesus Christ was God. In fact, Paul states that He was “equal with God.” Other verses such as John 1:1-4; Colossians 1:15; and Hebrews 1:1-3 also state that Jesus Christ is God.

Certainly as God, Jesus Christ did not need anything! He had all the glory and praise of heaven. With the Father and the Spirit, He reigned over the universe. But Philippians 2:6 states an amazing fact: He did not consider His equality with God as “something selfishly to be held on to.” Jesus did not think of Himself; He thought of others. His outlook (or attitude) was that of unselfish concern for others. This is “the mind of Christ,” an attitude that says, “I cannot keep my privileges for myself, I must use them for others; and to do this, I will gladly lay them aside and pay whatever price is necessary.”

A reporter was interviewing a successful job counselor who had placed hundreds of workers in their vocations quite happily. When asked the secret of his success, the man replied: “If you want to find out what a worker is really like, don’t give him responsibilities—give him privileges. Most people can handle responsibilities if you pay them enough, but it takes a real leader to handle privileges. A leader will use his privileges to help others and build the organization; a lesser man will use privileges to promote himself.” Jesus used His heavenly privileges for the sake of others—for our sake.

It would be worthwhile to contrast Christ’s attitude with that of Lucifer (Isa. 14:12-15) and Adam (Gen. 3:1-7). Many Bible students believe that the fall of Lucifer is a description of the fall of Satan. He once was the highest of the angelic beings, close to the throne of God (Ezek. 28:11-19), but he desired to be on the throne of God! Lucifer said, “I will!” but Jesus said, “Thy will.” Lucifer was not satisfied to be a creature; he wanted to be the Creator! Jesus was the Creator, yet He willingly became man. Christ’s humility is a rebuke to Satan’s pride.

Lucifer was not satisfied to be a rebel himself; he invaded Eden and tempted man to be a rebel. Adam had all that he needed; he was actually the “king” of God’s creation (“let them have dominion,” Gen. 1:26). But Satan said, “Ye shall be as God!” Man deliberately grasped after something that was beyond his reach, and as a result plunged the whole human race into sin and death. Adam and Eve thought only of themselves; Jesus Christ thought of others.

We expect unsaved people to be selfish and grasping, but we do not expect this of Christians, who have experienced the love of Christ and the fellowship of the Spirit (Phil. 2:1-2). More than twenty times in the New Testament, God instructs us how to live with “one another.” We are to prefer one another (Rom. 12:10), edify one another (1 Thes. 5:11), and bear each other’s burdens (Gal. 6:2). We should not judge one another (Rom. 14:13) but rather admonish one another (Rom. 15:14). Others is the key word in the vocabulary of the Christian who exercises the submissive mind.

He Serves (Phil. 2:7)

Thinking of “others” in an abstract sense only is insufficient; we must get down to the nitty-gritty of true service. A famous philosopher wrote glowing words about educating children but abandoned his own. It was easy for him to love children in the abstract, but when it came down to practice, that was something else. Jesus thought of others and became a servant! Paul traces the steps in the humiliation of Christ: (1) He emptied Himself, laying aside the independent use of His own attributes as God; (2) He permanently became a human, in a sinless physical body; (3) He used that body to be a servant; (4) He took that body to the cross and willingly died.

What grace! From heaven to earth, from glory to shame, from Master to servant, from life to death, “even the death of the cross!” In the Old Testament Age, Christ had visited earth on occasion for some special ministry (Gen. 18 is a case in point), but these visits were temporary. When Christ was born at Bethlehem, He entered into a permanent union with humanity from which there could be no escape. He willingly humbled Himself that He might lift us up! Note that Paul uses the word “form” again in Philippians 2:7, “the outward expression of the inward nature.” Jesus did not pretend to be a servant; He was not an actor playing a role. He actually was a servant! This was the true expression of His innermost nature. He was the God-Man, Deity and humanity united in one, and He came as a servant.

Have you noticed as you read the four Gospels that it is Jesus who serves others, not others who serve Jesus? He is at the beck and call of all kinds of people—fishermen, harlots, tax collectors, the sick, the sorrowing. “Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Matt. 20:28). In the Upper Room, when His disciples apparently refused to minister, Jesus arose, laid aside His outer garments, put on the long linen towel, and washed their feet! (John 13) He took the place of a menial slave! This was the submissive mind in action—and no wonder Jesus experienced such joy!

During the American Civil War, Gen. George B. McClellan was put in charge of the great Army of the Potomac, mainly because public opinion was on his side. He fancied himself to be a great military leader and enjoyed hearing the people call him “a young Napoleon.” However, his performance was less than sensational. President Lincoln commissioned him General-in-Chief, hoping this would get some action; but still he procrastinated. One evening, Lincoln and two of his staff members went to visit McClellan, only to learn that he was at a wedding. The three men sat down to wait, and an hour later the general arrived home. Without paying any attention to the President, McClellan went upstairs and did not return. Half an hour later, Lincoln sent the servant to tell McClellan that the men were waiting. The servant came back to report McClellan had gone to bed!

His associates angry, Lincoln merely got up and led the way home. “This is no time to be making points of etiquette and personal dignity,” the President explained. “I would hold McClellan’s horse if he will only bring us success.” This attitude of humility was what helped to make Lincoln a great man and a great President. He was not thinking of himself; he was thinking of serving others. Service is the second mark of the submissive mind.

He Sacrifices (Phil. 2:8)

Many people are willing to serve others if it does not cost them anything. But if there is a price to pay, they suddenly lose interest. Jesus “became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” (Phil. 2:8). His was not the death of a martyr but the death of a Saviour. He willingly laid down His life for the sins of the world.

Dr. J.H. Jowett has said, “Ministry that costs nothing accomplishes nothing.” If there is to be any blessing, there must be some “bleeding.” At a religious festival in Brazil, a missionary was going from booth to booth, examining the wares. He saw a sign above one booth: “Cheap Crosses.” He thought to himself, “That’s what many Christians are looking for these days—cheap crosses. My Lord’s cross was not cheap. Why should mine be?”

The person with the submissive mind does not avoid sacrifice. He lives for the glory of God and the good of others; and if paying a price will honor Christ and help others, he is willing to do it. This was Paul’s attitude (Phil. 2:17), Timothy’s (Phil. 2:20), and also Epaphroditus’ (Phil. 2:30). Sacrifice and service go together if service is to be true Christian ministry.

In his book Dedication and Leadership, Douglas Hyde explains how the Communists succeed in their program. A member of the Communist Party himself for twenty years, Hyde understands their philosophy. He points out that the Communists never ask a man to do a “mean, little job.” They always ask him boldly to undertake something that will cost him. They make big demands, and they get a ready response. Mr. Hyde calls “the willingness to sacrifice” one of the most important factors in the success of the Communist program. Even the youths in the movement are expected to study, serve, give, and obey, and this is what attracts and holds them.

A church council was planning the annual “Youth Sunday” program, and one of the members suggested that the teenagers serve as ushers, lead in prayer, bring special music. One of the teens stood up and said, “Quite frankly, we’re tired of being asked to do little things. We’d like to do something difficult this year, and maybe keep it going all year long. The kids have talked and prayed about this, and we’d like to work with our trustees in remodeling that basement room so it can be used for a classroom. And we’d like to start visiting our elderly members each week and taking them cassettes of the services. And, if it’s OK, we’d like to have a weekly witness on Sunday afternoons in the park. We hope this is OK with you.”

He sat down, and the new youth pastor smiled to himself. He had privately challenged the teens to do something that would cost them—and they enthusiastically responded to the challenge. He knew that sacrifice is necessary if there is going to be true growth and ministry.

The test of the submissive mind is not just how much we are willing to take in terms of suffering, but how much we are willing to give in terms of sacrifice. One pastor complained that his men were changing the words of the hymn from “Take my life and let it be” to “Take my wife and let me be!” They were willing for others to make the sacrifices, but they were unwilling to sacrifice for others.

It is one of the paradoxes of the Christian life that the more we give, the more we receive; the more we sacrifice, the more God blesses. This is why the submissive mind leads to joy; it makes us more like Christ. This means sharing His joy as we also share in His sufferings. Of course, when love is the motive (Phil. 2:1), sacrifice is never measured or mentioned. The person who constantly talks about his sacrifices does not have the submissive mind.

Is it costing you anything to be a Christian?

He Glorifies God (Phil. 2:9-11)

This, of course, is the great goal of all that we do—to glorify God. Paul warns us against “vainglory” in Philippians 2:3. The kind of rivalry that pits Christian against Christian and ministry against ministry is not spiritual, nor is it satisfying. It is vain, empty. Jesus humbled Himself for others, and God highly exalted Him; and the result of this exaltation is glory to God.

Our Lord’s exaltation began with His resurrection. When men buried the body of Jesus, that was the last thing any human hands did to Him. From that point on, it was God who worked. Men had done their worst to the Savior, but God exalted Him and honored Him. Men gave Him names of ridicule and slander, but the Father gave Him a glorious name! Just as in His humiliation He was given the name “Jesus” (Matt. 1:21), so in His exaltation He was given the name “Lord” (Phil. 2:11; see Acts 2:32-36). He arose from the dead and then returned in victory to heaven, ascending to the Father’s throne.

His exaltation included sovereign authority over all creatures in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. All will bow to Him (see Isa. 45:23). It is likely that “under the earth” refers to the lost, since God’s family is either in heaven or on earth (Eph. 3:14-15). One day all will bow before Him and confess that He is Lord. Of course, it is possible for people to bow and confess today, and receive His gift of salvation (Rom. 10:9-10). To bow before Him now means salvation; to bow before Him at the judgment means condemnation.

The whole purpose of Christ’s humiliation and exaltation is the glory of God (Phil. 2:11). As Jesus faced the cross, the glory of the Father was uppermost in His mind, “Father, the hour is come; glorify Thy Son, that Thy Son also may glorify Thee” (John 17:1). In fact, He has given this glory to us (John 17:22), and one day we shall share it with Him in heaven (John 17:24; see Rom. 8:28-30). The work of salvation is much greater and grander than simply the salvation of a lost soul, as wonderful as that is. Our salvation has as its ultimate purpose the glory of God (Eph. 1:6, 12, 14).

The person with the submissive mind, as he lives for others, must expect sacrifice and service; but in the end, it is going to lead to glory. “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time” (1 Peter 5:6). Joseph suffered and served for thirteen years; but then God exalted him and made him the second ruler of Egypt. David was anointed king when he was but a youth. He experienced years of hardship and suffering, but at the right time, God exalted him as king of Israel.

The joy of the submissive mind comes not only from helping others, and sharing in the fellowship of Christ’s sufferings (Phil. 3:10), but primarily from the knowledge that we are glorifying God. We are letting our light shine through our good works, and this glorifies the Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16). We may not see the glory today, but we shall see it when Jesus comes and rewards His faithful servants.

ww.Upwards.Church

Message Audio/Video and Outline: https://upwards.church/leander-campus/watch-now-message-videos

Watch Messages: YouTube-Upwards Church

Facebook: Upwards Church

Read Along Daily Bible Reading: YouVersion (https://www.bible.com/organizations/370f8a6e-16bc-464f-8c43-0b7623fd2952)

Source: Adapted from the Bible Exposition Commentary (BE Series) – New Testament, Volume 2.

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Sharing with Joy – Philippians 1:12-26

Posted on September 29, 2025 by dkoop

In this post, I’ll share the commentary of  Philippians 1:12-16,  from The Life Application, Bible Commentary.

HONOR CHRIST BY LIFE OR DEATH / 1:12-26

Paul explained to the Philippians that they shouldn’t despair over his imprisonment because what had happened to him was helping to spread the gospel. Paul’s example encouraged many believers to willingly take a stand for Christ and preach the Good News regardless of the consequences. Paul himself never stopped preaching, even in his confinement. The soldiers guarding Paul heard the gospel, and they learned that he was in prison not for being a criminal, but for being a Christian. Despite the differing circumstances of Paul’s life, his goal never changed—the gospel of Christ was to be preached to as many people as possible. This, too, should be our goal. While we go about the busyness of daily living, we should remember that we are to tell others about Christ and represent him in every situation.

1:12 I want you to know, beloved, that what has happened to me has actually helped to spread the gospel.NRSV Paul called the Philippians beloved, again emphasizing his fatherly love for them, and he turned his attention to a concern expressed by the Philippian church through Epaphroditus. The Philippians were certainly concerned for Paul’s well-being (expressed by their financial gift), but they were also concerned that Paul’s imprisonment had slowed down the spread of the gospel. By the time of this writing, Paul had been in prison about two years. Paul even

 LIFE APPLICATION – PIONEERS
Missionaries of the past who boarded ships to go to foreign lands did not expect to see their homeland shores again. Their good-byes were final, in terms of earth time. Some early missionaries (from Europe to the New World) actually sold themselves into slavery in order to preach to slaves. There was no turning back for them.
Pioneering requires a high sacrifice. Paul’s passion was for others to discover the Good News of eternal life through Jesus Christ. No matter what.
Pressing through frontiers of spiritual darkness still requires pioneers today—people who will reach neglected people or new people groups. Pray for missionaries, support them, join them.

may have questioned God’s reason for his lengthy imprisonment, for it effectively put him out of commission for further traveling and preaching. But Paul had come to understand, and he wanted the Philippians to know beyond any doubt, that what has happened (that is, Paul’s imprisonment) has actually helped to spread the gospel. Although one of Christianity’s most tireless missionaries had been imprisoned, God’s work could not be slowed down. In fact, God was using Paul’s imprisonment to actually help spread the gospel to Europe. “Helped to spread” is also translated “furtherance” and comes from the Greek word meaning “to cut the way before.” The picture is of pioneers cutting through uncharted territory. Paul’s arrest and subsequent lengthy imprisonment had resulted in the gospel moving in new directions. Paul went on to explain this in the following verses.

1:13 So that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to everyone else that my imprisonment is for Christ.NRSV Paul’s long arrest had allowed him to share the gospel with the very soldiers who guarded him. As a result, the whole imperial guard (the Praetorian guard, elite troops housed in the emperor’s palace) and everyone else (others in the palace, other believers, those who came to visit Paul, those in power, and members of the Jewish community—see Acts 28:17-23) knew that Paul was in prison only because of his belief in Christ and teaching of the gospel, not for being a criminal. Paul’s example, fervent love for Christ, and manner of life, even in prison, had allowed others to see the gospel in a whole new light. The custom of the time was for a prisoner to be guarded by a soldier who would be replaced every four hours. These soldiers certainly heard Paul’s words to those who visited, as well as his message spoken to them personally. Paul was confident that the message of the gospel was infiltrating the Roman army and the palace itself,  see 4:22.

How did Paul end up in chains in a Roman prison? While he was visiting Jerusalem, some Jews caused a riot and had him arrested. Eventually, Paul appealed to Caesar to hear his case (Acts 21:15-25:12). Paul was then escorted by soldiers to Rome, where he was placed under house arrest while awaiting trial—not a trial for breaking civil law, but for proclaiming the Good News of Christ. At that time, the Roman authorities did not consider this to be a serious charge. A few years later, however, Rome would take a different view of Christianity and make every effort to stamp it out of existence. Paul’s house arrest allowed him some degree of freedom. He could have visitors, continue to preach, and write letters such as this one. A brief record of Paul’s time in Rome is found in Acts 28:11-31. The Jews certainly hoped that Paul’s arrest would silence his teaching; the Romans hoped the arrest would keep the peace (Paul’s teaching sometimes infuriated his audiences to the point of rioting). However, locking up Paul only served to spread the gospel through new preachers to new audiences.

 LIFE APPLICATION  A NICE REFLECTION
Being imprisoned would cause many people to become bitter or to give up, but Paul saw it as one more opportunity to spread the Good News of Christ. He realized that his current circumstances weren’t as important as what he did with them. Turning a bad situation into a good one, Paul reached out to the Roman soldiers who made up the palace guard and encouraged those Christians who were afraid of persecution. We may not be in prison, but we still have plenty of opportunities to be discouraged—times of indecision, financial burdens, family conflict, church conflict, or the loss of our jobs. How we act in such situations will reflect what we believe. Like Paul, look for ways to demonstrate your faith, even in bad situations. Whether or not the situation improves, your faith will grow stronger.

1:14 And most of the brothers and sisters, having been made confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, dare to speak the word with greater boldness and without fear.NRSV Not only was the gospel being spread by Paul through his contacts in prison, but his efforts were being multiplied outside the prison. Paul’s faith, confidence, and patience in spite of his imprisonment helped his fellow believers become more confident in the Lord. Whatever the reason for their lack of confidence before—whether they had been afraid to speak up, whether they left all the mission work to Paul because they lacked his boldness, or whether they wondered if faith in God was worth the price—they saw Paul’s faith and it strengthened their own. They began to tell the gospel with greater boldness and without fear. With more and more believers gaining boldness in telling the gospel of Jesus Christ, more and more people heard the message and had the opportunity to accept it. This gave Paul great joy. He passed this good news on to his friends in Philippi, that they might know how God was working through his difficult situation.

1:15 It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill.NIV Paul had been made aware that some of the brothers and sisters who had been newly emboldened to speak about Christ were doing so out of envy and rivalry. But others were preaching Christ out of goodwill—that is, with pure motives. They wanted to help others to faith and they wanted to glorify God.

 LIFE APPLICATION – ON THE FRONT LINES
On Omaha Beach, June 6, 1944, when regiments of men were pinned down in fear, desperate for confidence, a brigadier general who could have sent written orders took charge by roaming the beaches like a coach along the sidelines. His language was coarse but his courage was unmistakable. He moved the beachhead uphill, turning a disaster into victory.
Paul’s battle was spiritual, and he carried no rank except “servant of Jesus Christ.” But his bold leadership inspired many others to share the gospel. His courage dissolved others’ fear. See, his life told them, it can be done!
How can you become less inhibited about witnessing for Christ? First, watch those who do it. Second, do it yourself. And third, lead others in doing it. Your confidence will sit still as long as you do and grow as fast as you step out from behind your cover.

This comment by Paul provides an interesting look into people’s motives. All of those who preached Christ were sincere believers—they had the right doctrine and they acted upon it by sharing it with others. While the end result might be the same (people hearing the Good News), some actually had wrong motives in their preaching. Their motives stemmed from envy and rivalry. Now that the great missionary Paul had been virtually silenced in prison, some of these brothers were hoping to make a name for themselves in the vacuum that Paul left. Perhaps they hoped for great notoriety, trying to turn people’s eyes away from Paul and toward themselves. These people had no personal love for Paul. They even hoped that their planting churches and gaining converts would upset Paul and make his imprisonment even more frustrating.

 LIFE APPLICATION – CHRISTIAN COMPETITION
These Christian preachers were driven by envy and rivalry. They saw the authoritative position Paul enjoyed, and that painful awareness drove them to desire the same advantage. They were striving to equal or excel Paul’s position. Christian leaders today can fall for this same temptation: to gain leverage over another or to compete for status or position. God gives us what we really need, so Christian leaders must learn to be content with what God has given (see 4:11). Our eternal life in Christ is our greatest asset, so we should not compete against or strive with others.

1:16 The latter do so in love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel.NIV Those who preached Christ “out of goodwill” (1:15) did so in love, spreading the Good News of Christ with pure motives. They knew Paul was in prison, not because of any criminal act, but simply for his defense of the gospel (see also 1:7). Paul had landed in prison because of his devotion to Christ and his zeal to spread the gospel. Yet his fellow believers in Rome, some of whom may have been his spiritual children, fearlessly picked up where he left off, continuing and expanding his ministry.

 LIFE APPLICATION – FOR A PURPOSE
Paul could have become depressed, discouraged, or disillusioned. He could have wallowed in self-pity and despair. Instead, he regarded his imprisonment as being appointed or destined. He considered, “I am put here to fulfill God’s greater purpose.” God had used Paul’s imprisonment in Rome to bring the gospel to the Roman emperor. Do you have difficulty accepting your station in life? Do you resent where God has placed you? Although education and focused effort may enable us to take a new role or get a new job, often God puts us in a place to serve. Whether it is an actual prison or a place that feels like one, God wants you to serve him faithfully and joyfully.

1:17 The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains.NIV Those who were preaching Christ “out of envy and rivalry” (1:15) were doing so because of their own selfish ambition, making their motives less than pure. These preachers were not so much interested in their message as they were in their reputation. Apparently their doctrine was sound—these were not false teachers—Paul never tolerated any kind of false teaching (see 2 Corinthians 11:4; Galatians 1:6-9). The error was in motive, not in content. These self-seeking opportunists hoped that Paul would be angered at the notoriety of new and powerful preachers who took his place while he was in prison. Little did these men understand Paul’s sincere love for God and his single-minded focus on spreading the gospel.

1:18-19 But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.NIV Paul had an amazingly selfless attitude. He knew that some were preaching to build their own reputations, taking advantage of Paul’s imprisonment to try to make a name for themselves. Regardless of the motives of these preachers, Paul rejoiced that whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. Some Christians serve for the wrong reasons. Paul wouldn’t condone,

nor does God excuse, their motives, but we should be glad if God uses their message, regardless of their motives. Paul had no concern for his own reputation or success; he had dedicated his life to glorifying God. He understood that God was being glorified even as he sat in chains; thus, Paul could rejoice. That is the way it is in the church. It never lives by its deeds, not even by its deeds of love. Rather it lives by what it cannot see and yet believes. It sees affliction and believes deliverance.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

 

Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.NIV Paul had been able to rejoice during his two years in prison, could rejoice that good results could come from preachers with bad motives, and would continue to rejoice no matter how long he would remain in prison or how long he would live. Paul knew that all that had happened (resulting in his imprisonment, see also 1:12) would end in his deliverance.

 LIFE APPLICATION – DELIVERANCE
Paul, the prisoner, expected to be delivered, but not by a daring raid. In fact, the means of his escape are downright curious: prayer and the help of the Holy Spirit. What kind of talk is this?
Prayer—his own, no doubt, and the prayers of many Christians. Paul counts them as part of his life’s treasure.
The help of the Holy Spirit—the calm assurance that God is present and potent.
Paul may never escape detention; his shackles may never be loosened. So what? He is delivered.
Today, try prayer, and whatever your circumstances, accept the help of the Holy Spirit, the key to real freedom.

What kind of deliverance did Paul envision? While most scholars agree that Paul was quoting from Job 13:16, “Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance” (NIV), they disagree on what Paul meant. Some scholars argue that Paul was referring to his upcoming trial, believing that he would be acquitted and freed (which did happen). However, this is unlikely because of Paul’s words in the next verse that reveal his uncertainty about the outcome of his trial. Others believe that, like Job, Paul was focusing on his relationship with God—that whether he lived or died, his stand for Christ would be vindicated. Still others think Paul was referring to his apostleship in the face of the envious preachers. As Job sought to prove his integrity, so Paul was seeking to vindicate his standing, despite his chains. A final option, and most likely, is that Paul was referring to his ultimate deliverance in salvation. That is, whether or not he would be delivered by the Roman court, he would be delivered from God’s judgment.

Paul’s confidence came from two sources: human and divine. Paul knew that the Philippians’ constant prayers had sustained him. As Paul consistently prayed for the churches (1:4-5), so he petitioned their prayers on his behalf (Romans 15:30; 2 Corinthians 1:11; Colossians 4:3; 1 Thessalonians 5:25; 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2). In addition, Paul depended upon the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ. The word “help” (epichoregias) carries the meaning of “support.” The “Spirit of Jesus Christ” refers to the Holy Spirit, who makes Christ’s presence real in true believers. The prayers of the church and the support of the Holy Spirit sustained Paul through a difficult trial and, in the end, no matter what the outcome, Paul would ultimately be “delivered.”

1:20 It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be put to shame in any way, but that by my speaking with all boldness, Christ will be exalted now as always in my body, whether by life or by death.NRSV The Greek word apokaradokia, translated “eager expectation,” pictures a person straining his neck to see what is ahead. In Romans 8:19, Paul used the same word as he described looking forward to the revelation of God’s children, as God had planned from the beginning of creation. Hope and expectation are linked together. Paul looked forward to the final fulfillment. He was not concerned about the verdict of his trial, but for the testimony he would leave. Paul hoped and expected to not be put to shame in any way. He was not worried about his own humiliation, but he prayed for courage to present the gospel. When standing trial, Paul wanted to speak God’s truth courageously and not be timid or ashamed. The word “boldness” means with “sufficient courage” (NIV). Paul wanted to have openness and fearlessness when he spoke out for Christ. Whether by life or by death, he wanted only to exalt Christ. “Exalt” means to raise in status, to give dignity and honor. Paul did not say, “I will exalt Christ”; instead, he said, “Christ will be exalted.” Paul did not rely on his own boldness, but rather on the help of the Holy Spirit to produce that exaltation of Christ through Paul. Paul wanted his witness to heighten the effect of God’s power and plan. Early Christians would remember the death of Stephen (a death Paul

himself witnessed), the first martyr for the faith, who died bravely, and whose death glorified Christ and resulted in an incredible spread of the gospel (Acts 7:1-8:1). Perish all things, so that Christ be magnified.

Lord Shaftesbury

 

This was not Paul’s final imprisonment in Rome, but he didn’t know that. Awaiting trial, Paul knew that he could either be released or executed; however, he trusted Christ to work it out for his deliverance. If the verdict were to go against him, Christ would be glorified in Paul’s martyrdom. If Paul was to be released, he would welcome the opportunity to continue serving the Lord. As it turned out, Paul was released from this imprisonment but arrested again two or three years later. Only faith in Christ could sustain Paul in such adversity.

1:21 For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.NKJV To those who don’t believe in God, life on earth is all there is, and so it is natural for them to strive for this world’s values—money, popularity, power, pleasure, and prestige. For Paul, however, to live meant to develop eternal values and to tell others about Christ, who alone could help them see life from an eternal perspective. For to me indicates Paul’s firm resolve and unshaken faith. Paul used the present tense when he said to live is Christ, thus emphasizing the process of living. For Paul, the essence of life was Christ and having a vital spiritual union with him. Everything Paul desired or attempted was inspired by his devotion for Christ. The meaning is not quite the same as Colossians 1:27: “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (niv), or Galatians 2:20: “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me” (niv). Paul wrote not so much of the indwelling Christ here as of Christ being the motive and goal for living and doing worthwhile work for the benefit of others.

Paul’s whole purpose in life was to speak out boldly for Christ and to become more like him. Those who wished to “stir up trouble” for Paul (1:17 NIV) might have thought that his anticipation of death would bring shame and fear. Instead, Paul knew that both his living and dying were the decision of God’s sovereign will. To die would not be a tragedy but, instead, a realization of Paul’s hope and expectation (1:20). On one hand, death would be a release from the toils and troubles of this life; on the other, death was the gateway to Christ’s presence. To live would continue Paul’s ministry of spreading the gospel; to die would be gain because Paul’s martyrdom would glorify Christ and bring him face-to-face with the Savior. Paul’s faithful and fearless witness even unto death would enhance the reputation of the gospel. Christ would be magnified as much as in Paul’s death as he had been in Paul’s life. In addition, Paul could confidently say that dying would be even better than living because he would be with God whom he had served and loved (1 John 3:2-3).

 LIFE APPLICATION – A LIFE-AND-DEATH SITUATION
Some people hold tightly to this life. Afraid to lose or let go, they in effect become slaves to their mortality. In contrast, those who do not fear death, seeing it as merely the door to eternal life, are free to live with purpose, meaning, and commitment to a cause. Because Paul was ready to die, he was ready to live. He belonged to Christ and was confident of his eternal destination, so he could donate his life on earth to living for Christ. Where is your hope—is it in this life or in the next? Until you are ready to die, you won’t be ready to live.

 

 LIFE APPLICATION – MAKING THE MOST
Paul knew that heaven would be better than this life, and he looked forward to it. Yet in obedience to Christ, Paul would work and serve as Christ saw fit. We must avoid two errors: (1) to work and lose sight of our ultimate home with Christ and (2) to desire only to be with Christ and neglect the work he has called us to do. So we must work hard now, live at our peak, serve and love those around us, help the church grow, heal someone’s wounds, write a good poem, clean up our yard, do our best at school, but we always know there’s a better day coming!
Always with one eye toward heaven, Paul made the most of each day. So should we.

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