What is Your Goal? Philippians 3 (22 min)

In my last post, I asked: Do you understand who Jesus Christ is from Father God’s view? The Father’s revelation of Christ is within God’s Word. It is important not to have someone else’s interpretation of who He is! What does God expect you to do with His Christ beyond believing in His message? Paul wrote: “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14).

So then, what are you reaching for? Can you have many goals? How do you prioritize them?

This is the third blog post of a 4-post series (1 for each Chapter of Philippians). It is based on a recent presentation I gave to a local church. Let’s get started!

The big idea for Philippians 3 stated in the most direct and least complex way is:

• The true Christian is increasing in sanctification: Christ is the goal.

The discipline to apply is:

• Choose to change your attitude & goals because of Christ in you and your future in Him.

No matter what happens in this life, the Lord will complete His will in (and through) a child of God. Your attitude will determine your experience as you trod this earthly adventure.

Chapter 3 Study Notes Outline

Please prayerfully read Philippians 3 and then consider the following segmentation or my outline:

• Warning About Confidence in Flesh (verses 1-3)
• Record of Past Thinking (verses 4 – 6)
• New Thinking Because of Christ (verses 7 – 11)
• New Goal for a Heavenly Future Union with Christ (verses 12 – 16)
• Follow Those Who Have a Heavenly Goal (verses 17 – 21)

As you read the observation highlights below, ask the Holy Spirit (your Teacher) to minister to your heart through His inspired Word. The purpose of this blog is to motivate you to read the Scriptures in context using your Bible to think deeply; so ask your questions! Please do not accept what I have typed without searching it out for yourself prayerfully!

Warning About Confidence in Flesh (verses 1-3)

So far in the book of Philippians, the concept of rejoicing has been mentioned several times:

• “rejoice” six times in four verses (1:18; 2:16-18 & 28)
• “joy” three times in three verses (1:4, 25; 2:2).

By the end of the book, joy or rejoicing appears 16 times.

At this point in Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he re-emphasized the importance of joy for the believer’s walk of faith by repeating the command to rejoice.

Remember, these believers were under persecution like Paul in varying degrees. They were confronted with opposing ideologies that threatened their well-being (not only from outside the church but also from within). In this chapter, Paul introduced the risk from those who held legalistic views. The Apostles called anyone who claimed to worship Jesus Christ but held to the Old Testament ceremonial Laws for righteousness the false circumcision (Judaizers).

Circumcision was an act of human obedience that signified the covenant God made to Abraham; it was not the covenant. The bᵉrîyth (divine ordinance with signs or pledges) God made was that He would be the God of Abraham’s descendants as stated in Genesis 17:7. He made it when Abraham was asleep years before circumcision was established (Genesis 15:1, 12-13, 17-18). Over 430 years later, Moses told Abraham’s descendants:

• “Therefore circumcise the foreskin of your heart, and be stiff-necked no longer. For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality nor takes a bribe.” (Deuteronomy 10:16-17)

In Ezekiel, the Lord said circumcision of the heart included repentance actions (turning away from) that break God’s righteous ways:

• “Cast away from you all the transgressions which you have committed, and get yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. For why should you die, O house of Israel?” (Ezekiel 18:31)

Our Lord also explained that those who would be God’s people would worship Him in honesty from the heart without the pretense of dead works. Notice that Jesus also taught avoiding anything that tends to make us sin. Jesus said:

• “But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” (John 4:23-24)
• “If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed, rather than having two hands, to go to hell, into the fire that shall never be quenched” (Mark 9:43)

Friends, if our hearts are not intentionally directed to Christ, our affections will be clouded by the distractions and pressures of this life. If we make little of our sins, we continue in them. If we claim to love the Father and the Son, our desire for Him should translate into actions and time (in sincerity and without religious rules). If we think we serve Him through our works, we fool ourselves. If we love and fear Him, we will carry out His desires that flow from His Spirit within us. The distinction is the Source of initiation.

Paul wrote to the believers in Rome saying:

• For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; (Romans 2:28)
• And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while still uncircumcised, that he might be the father of all those who believe, though they are uncircumcised, that righteousness might be imputed to them also, and the father of circumcision to those who not only are of the circumcision, but who also walk in the steps of the faith which our father Abraham had while still uncircumcised. (Romans 4:11-12)

By verse 3 we read:

• for we [who are born-again have been reborn from above – spiritually transformed, renewed, set apart for His purpose and] are the true circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God and glory and take pride and exult in Christ Jesus and place no confidence [in what we have or who we are] in the flesh (Philippians 3:3 AMP)

Reflection Questions:

1. Why was Paul warning the Philippians about “dogs, evil workers, the mutilation” (verse 2) which he contrasted with those who “rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh” (verse 3)?
2. What things or attitudes in your life are works of the law (Galatians 2:16)? What are the things that lead you to sin (Jeremiah 4:4)?
3. Which people or what things do you think about more than Christ? How can you maintain healthy relationships with them while magnifying Christ above all?

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Record of Past Thinking (verses 4 – 6)

Having warned the Philippians about those among them who preach a “works” based righteousness/salvation, Paul glanced back at his past to a time before his encounter with Jesus Christ.

In this segment, Paul listed 6 things he incorrectly placed his confidence in:

•  3 from works – (1) an esteemed educated member of the exclusive, separatist Pharisean religious sect, (2) zealously fighting for the preservation of his religion, (3) faultless observance or practice of the Law.

• 3 from his heritage – (1) circumcised on the 8th day, (2) born into the covenant nation of Israel, (3) born into the tribe of Benjamin who carried the blessing of Moses who said of this tribe: “The beloved of the LORD shall dwell in safety by Him“

Despite his pedigree and devoted efforts, Paul likened his pursuit of righteousness to works of the flesh (much like those “dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the mutilation” in verse 2).

Do we think our education, background, associations, genealogy, observance of religious traditions, and good deeds earn us entitlement that grants us extra grace from God or others? Paul stated that he had every human reason to place confidence in these things, and yet, we know that he had to repent, come to the end of his efforts, and start following Jesus Christ.

Paul also wrote:

• But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. (Galatians 6:14)
• For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Reflection Questions:

1. What are the things that you do for God? What motivates you to do the things that you do?
2. What is the difference between obedience and works of the law?
3. What things do you boast about?
4. What accomplishments are beneficial for you?

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New Thinking Because of Christ (verses 7 – 11)

After reflecting on his past, Paul affirmed his new values. After being transformed by Christ and having grown in his understanding through supernatural means, Paul considered the highest worth is the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus, his Lord and Saviour. He discarded every claim to achievement and commendation to gain everlasting, face-to-face fellowship with the One who made Himself of no reputation and died on the cross to reconcile lost people to God.

Here is how the New Living Translation states this:

• … I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith. I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that one way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead! (Philippians 3:9-11 NLT)

When Paul said he wanted to share in Christ’s death, we know it was not a morbid desire because he expressed that he felt it was more important for him to remain with the Philippians (for their growth and joy) within the same letter. Refer to Philippians 1:21-26. He knew he had things to do on earth. He also knew it would be better to be with Christ.

Paul indicated that he wanted to know Christ in His fullness. He already had personal supernatural interactions with Christ, and he experienced Christ’s love, grace, mercy, strength and His presence in the middle of darkness, loneliness, and persecution. Paul wanted to share a perfect union with Christ in such a way that he would (1) experience the same commitment and passion as Christ had to endure suffering and shame for love, and (2) be raised by Divine power in a glorified state where there would be no more evil.

Paul knew Jesus experienced joy in His obedience to the Father. He understood Christ’s joy that is imparted by the Holy Spirit would be manifest in those who willingly and lovingly obey the Father (John 15:11; John 17:13). One day, believers who endure whatever the Lord permits into their lives will experience the unity of mind in Christ and a glorified body. He explained it this way in Romans:

• … heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together (Romans 8:17).

Reflection Questions:

1. What is fellowship with Christ in this earthly realm? In what way do you know Christ?
2. How did Paul change his mind about the priority Christ had in his life?
3. Reflecting on your thought life, how much of your mind-share does Christ occupy?

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New Goal for a Heavenly Future Union with Christ (verses 12 – 16)

• If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. (Colossians 3:1)

In verses 12-16, Paul encouraged the Philippians to press towards the goal of knowing Christ regardless of what stage of maturity his readers are at. Paul’s regenerated way of thinking prioritizes reaching his new destination with Christ where he will worship Him in a new glorified body under the reign of Jesus Christ.

Have you noticed how many individuals who profess Christ are stagnating in their faith; merely content with having received saving faith? At one point in my life, this was me. I rejoiced in knowing Christ purchased my salvation and my destiny was in heaven. While I still celebrate this, I praise God that His Spirit has helped me press on to becoming an overcomer in Christ. This began when I started spending time with the Lord in His Word and giving it space in my mind.

Throughout Philippians, the concept of the thought-life is presented at least 35 times (in the NKJV)

MIND(ED)	THINK	CONSIDER(ED)	COUNT(ED)	KNOW(ING/LEDGE)
11	2	4	4	14

Paul did not think that his knowledge of and fellowship with Christ was complete or perfected; this indicates that every believer has room to grow here.

We grow by planting God’s truths in our minds; His truths are in His Word. Our shortfalls are not to become discouraging for us; they are to show us that we are to continue to reach toward the finish line where Christ (our Champion) awaits us at the finish line!

• Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding fast to the Head, from whom all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God. (Colossians 2:18-19)

• For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)
• I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing. (2 Timothy 4:7-8)
• Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

Please note that there are different degrees of knowing someone. Paul longed for complete intimacy and union with Christ (beyond the earthly newness of life) to be realized in only glory. He accepted Christ’s plan for his life and understood his days were appointed to him. For this reason, Paul’s goals were (1) to use whatever time the Lord had granted him to labour for Him and those He came to save and (2) to be received into that blessed union in heaven in the Lord’s sovereign timing.

Christ has already gone before us, marked out the path we are to take, and achieved the reward that He wants to share with us. He not only purchased our salvation, He triumphed over all that wars against humanity! We have a vast number of forerunners who have successfully navigated the path. Forget past achievements or spiritual milestones; look ahead to where Christ is.

• … Jesus said…, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:62)

Our resurrected Lord revealed to John who He was in glory. John wrote:

• And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts. He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son. “But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” (Revelation 21:3-8)

Paul also told those who are mature in Christ to have his attitude of pursuing spiritual perfection for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. We have so much to gain! What a wonderful Saviour; what a holy, loving, gracious and merciful Lord!

Regardless of our spiritual maturity level, let us keep the unity of the Spirit of God. God will make clear to those who do not share this perspective that they need to grow. In the meantime, hold fast to whatever degree of revelation has been attained without looking to the past life and without strife with our younger siblings.

• One thing I have desired of the LORD, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD, And to inquire in His temple. (Psalm 27:4)
• being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ; (Philippians 1:6)

Reflection Questions:

1. What should the highest goal of every Christian be?
2. What is the cost of achieving this goal? What is the value of reaching this goal?
3. How do you plan on achieving your goals?

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Follow Those Who Have a Heavenly Goal (verses 17 – 21)

Earlier in the letter, Paul warned about various adversaries: (1)the legalist Judiazers (Philippians 3:2-3) and (2) those who pridefully took liberality in lifestyle (Philippians 1:27-28). He also mentioned the Day of Christ three times (Philippians 1:6, 10; Philippians 2:16). Paul was building the case that there would be some within church circles who do not live focused on the heavenly goal.

In verses 17 – 21, we read that Paul was concerned about the proclaiming followers of Christ who “live as enemies of the cross of Christ” and he wept about it. This is an alarming thing for believers. There can be individuals who do not live for Christ in our local fellowships, and although we must love them, we can not be ignorant about this reality.

• In Chapter 2 Paul stated that we were to have the mind of Christ; He is our example. Then Paul commended Timothy and Epaphroditus as examples of fellow sojourners who follow the Lord and His cause.
• In Chapter 3 (verses 4-6) Paul recalled he was self-righteous until he was transformed by Christ into His devoted bondservant.

Paul exhorted the Philippians to live their faith with genuine followers of Christ (like the new Paul, Timothy and Epaphroditus) because he understood the power of influence. (1 Corinthians 15:33-34)   

Regenerated children of God have their minds set on Christ. Therefore, they walk in unity with (1) Christ, (2) other sincere believers, and (3) the Word of God. These have one Spirit.

In verse 19, Paul stated that the enemies of the cross of Christ think about the here and now, things concerning earthly things and existence as their chief focus. This is a stark contrast from citizens of heaven who eagerly await the return of the Lord Jesus Christ. In other letters, Paul said:

• “For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet. The last enemy that will be destroyed is death. For He has put all things under His feet.” But when He says “all things are put under Him,” it is evident that He who put all things under Him is excepted. “(1 Corinthians 15:25-27)
• “When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory. “(Colossians 3:4)

Jesus said,

• “Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live. For as the Father has life in Himself, so He has granted the Son to have life in Himself, and has given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of Man. Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come forth – those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.” (John 5:25-29)
• … “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25-26)
• “I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” (Revelation 1:18)

In the letter to the Philippians, Paul disentangled religious systems and thinking and pointed to the Cause of salvation – Jesus Christ. Paul encouraged believers to have the mind of Christ; and when challenged by society to adjust their thinking, remember how Paul and others (who were confronted by the same pressures) followed Christ at all costs. They were a pattern. Christ was their highest priority because they kept in their minds their future heavenly existence; they were not primarily concerned with comfort or earthly survival.

They did not allow this life to distract them from their upward call of God in Christ Jesus. They did not give up their mind-share to other ”things’, gods’, or ‘lords’,

• “...at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. ” (Philippians 2:10-11)

• “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.” (Philippians 3:20-21)

Family of God, we serve an everlasting God who foreknows all our days and has a good plan for our perfection with our physical and spiritual union with Christ. So when the joy of the Lord and early tragedy collide, remember that (1) our earthly existence is merely a vapour that appears for a little time and then vanishes, (2) our future is in Christ for eternity, and (3) the way to achieve this heavenly goal is to love and obey Christ’s teachings which are in the Word of God.

• “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)

Reflection Questions:

1. After evaluating your current pattern of life, how would you describe your fellowship with Christ?
2. How do you reconcile this life’s trials, your sins, and God’s upward call in Christ?
3. What are your goals? How are they prioritized? What does God’s Word teach about them?

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If you have not placed your faith in Jesus Christ as your personal Redeemer and you sense a tugging at your heart, it’s probably the Holy Spirit beckoning you to meet Him, to see Christ for who He is (Saviour, Redeemer, Lord of all creation, eternal God, Son of God and the God-Man). You can use your own words to tell the LORD you believe and ask Him to fill your heart with the knowledge of Him and the power to choose freedom over sin.

All Scripture in this blog is from the New King James Version unless otherwise specified.