Philippians 3:12-21


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SESSION 4

GROWING WITH JOY

The Point Day by day, I can become more and more like Jesus.

The Passage Philippians 3:12-21

The Bible Meets Life Running a marathon is a grueling task in any year. But the 36,000+ runners who competed in the 2014 Boston Marathon carried something extra: the emotion of running that historic event the year after it was marred by tragedy in 2013, when two terrorists’ bombs killed three people and injured 260 others. Meb Keflezighi was one of those competitors in 2014. As he ran, he had the names of the previous year’s victims written on his bib. Incredibly, Keflezighi not only finished the race—he won. In fact, he became the first American to win in 29 years. And at 38, he was the oldest person to win in over 80 years. As he crossed the finish line, people in the crowd chanted “U.S.A.” Keflezighi lifted his hands upward with joy and triumph. His hard work and endurance paid off. In Philippians 3, Paul used the analogy of running a race to capture his passionate, all-consuming desire to pursue Christ. The apostle’s desire to run hard after his Savior is a great example of how we can strive to become more and more like Jesus.

The Setting Although chained to a Roman guard and awaiting trial before Caesar, Paul found joy in focusing his attention on the prize of complete spiritual maturity in Christ. He warned the Philippian believers about false teachers with worldly desires, and he exhorted them as citizens of heaven to imitate him in forgetting the past and pursuing together the goal of Christlikeness until they received the reward of glorious transformation in the presence of Christ.

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What does the Bible say?

Philippians 3:12-21 Citizenship (v. 20)—The people of Philippi were official Roman citizens, rather than conquered vassals (such as the people of Jerusalem). This was an honor and a source of pride, but Paul reminded his audience that there true citizenship was in God’s kingdom.

Not that I have already reached the goal or am already fully mature, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I also have been taken hold of by Christ Jesus. 12

Brothers, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, 13

I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus.

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Therefore, all who are mature should think this way. And if you think differently about anything, God will reveal this also to you. 15

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In any case, we should live up to whatever truth we have attained.

Join in imitating me, brothers, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us. 17

For I have often told you, and now say again with tears, that many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.

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Their end is destruction; their god is their stomach; their glory is in their shame. They are focused on earthly things,

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but our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. 20

He will transform the body of our humble condition into the likeness of His glorious body, by the power that enables Him to subject everything to Himself. 21

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THE POINT

Day by day, I can become more and more like Jesus.

GET INTO THE STUDY

10 minutes

DISCUSS: Question #1 on page 105

Notes

of the PSG: “When have you been thankful you didn’t quit?” GUIDE: Direct group members to “The Bible Meets Life” on page 106 of the PSG. Introduce the theme of becoming more and more like Christ by reading or summarizing the text—or by encouraging group members to read on their own. ACTIVITY (OPTIONAL): Connect with the racing theme of “The Bible Meets Life” by leading your group members in a brief round of light calisthenics. Ask everyone to stand up and walk in place for 30 seconds as a warm up. Then lead three or four additional exercises that are appropriate for your group members’ physical condition and attire—jumping jacks, stretches, shadow boxing, lunges, jogging in place, push ups, sit ups, and so on. If you have the space, you could even allow your more competitive members to run a brief race. Note: In addition to choosing exercises that are appropriate for your group members, verbally express that any person is excused from any or all of the exercises for any reason. No one is forced to participate. GUIDE: Call attention to “The Point” at the top of page 106 of the PSG: “Day by day, I can become more and more like Jesus.” LEADER PACK: Ask group members to consider Pack Item 12, “Union with Christ.” Encourage them to verbalize what they hope to learn or experience during this session. PRAY: Transition into the study by asking the Holy Spirit to bless your group as you work together to engage the Scriptures.

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15 minutes

STUDY THE BIBLE Philippians 3:12-14

Notes

Not that I have already reached the goal or am already fully mature, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I also have been taken hold of by Christ Jesus. 13 Brothers, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, 14 I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus.

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READ: Philippians 3:12-14 on page 107 of the PSG. Read the text out loud or ask a volunteer to do so. DISCUSS: Question #2 on page 107 of the PSG: “What experiences or encounters have helped you grow spiritually?” DISCUSS: Question #3 on page 107 of the PSG: “What principles in these verses can help us pursue the goal of Christlikeness?” Note: The PSG text provides several possible answers to this question. ALTERNATE QUESTION: What have you always wanted to know about spiritual growth?

Therefore, ask Question #3 at the beginning of your group’s engagement with verses 12-14, and then lead group members through the PSG material (including the directives below) as a supplement to your discussion. SUMMARIZE: Help group members work through the major points from pages 107-108 of the PSG.

>> “Paul, the great apostle, knew he wasn’t perfect. He had progressed in his walk with Christ, but he wasn’t content to stay there.”

>> “Notice Paul’s use of both ‘forgetting’ and ‘reaching forward.’ We can let go of the past when it’s forgiven in Christ.”

>> “What about the future? How do we reach forward and pursue God’s prize? Hear the simplicity of Paul’s words: ‘one thing I do.’”

>> “Paul never lost the wonder of the gospel; nor should we. All our spiritual growth comes from the outflow of our union with Christ.”

TRANSITION: We’ll find more practical suggestions for growth in verses 15-19.

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THE POINT

Day by day, I can become more and more like Jesus.

Philippians 3:12-14 Commentary [Verse 12] Although no real believer would have labeled Paul as immature, he himself realized he was not fully mature. Indeed, he had not yet reached this goal. The same Greek root occurs three times in this verse (“reached,” “take hold of,” “taken hold of”). Paul’s great desire was to know Christ and His resurrection (see vv. 10‑11). The perfection he would have at the resurrection was not yet his. Realizing he had not yet reached his goal, he made every effort to do so. The phrase brings to mind a runner straining toward the finish line. Here again he strived to take hold of (active form) this elusive goal for which he willingly spent his life. He did so because Jesus had taken hold of him (passive form). In the last two instances, this phrase has a sense of catch and force down, as a football player pursues the ball carrier to catch him and force him to the ground. The Son of God chose Paul and grabbed hold of his life on the Damascus road (see Acts 9). Paul wanted to catch and make his own the same gospel of Jesus that had already caught Paul and made him Christ’s own. [Verse 13] Again Paul reiterated that he did not consider himself fully mature. The word implies reviewing a process and reaching a conclusion. Paul’s deliberation led him to the conclusions of verse 12. Having done so, as a runner in a race hopes to win the prize, he strained every muscle to achieve and maintain forward motion. Two all-important phrases explain Paul’s dedicated pursuit. Forgetting what is behind would include all the points of pride of Philippians 3:5‑6: all he had done as Saul the persecutor, all the pain he had endured for Christ, all the headaches of immature church members and false teachers. Looking back can draw us back (see Luke 9:62). Let us forget great accomplishments that can make us proud or indifferent and failures that can cause guilt or shame. In contrast, reaching forward to what is ahead is to exert with all one’s being in pursuit of a goal. These terms were often used of a runner, blanking out every other distraction and straining with every sinew, reaching and grasping for the finish line. [Verse 14] It was with such determination and focus Paul continued to pursue the goal. This word is used in both hunting (relentless pursuit of game) and athletics (diligent pursuit of victory). Such pursuit requires both discipline and determination. At stake is the prize promised at God’s call upon Paul’s life. Paul wanted to hear God call his name and summon him to the victory stand where he would meet Jesus face to face and know Him in perfect intimacy for faithful service. Rather than slack off toward the end of the race, Paul was motivated by the calling of God on his life to strain harder in purity and service. He wanted to get to know every dimension of Christ, through every means. The joy of experiencing progress kept him going, but the ultimate joy would be the completion of God’s plan for his life.

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5 minutes

STUDY THE BIBLE Philippians 3:15-19

Notes

Therefore, all who are mature should think this way. And if you think differently about anything, God will reveal this also to you. 16 In any case, we should live up to whatever truth we have attained. 17 Join in imitating me, brothers, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us. 18 For I have often told you, and now say again with tears, that many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction; their god is their stomach; their glory is in their shame. They are focused on earthly things … 5

READ: Philippians 3:15-19 on page 108 of the PSG. GUIDE: This passage contains language that may be confusing to some. Therefore, ask group members to identify words or phrases they don’t understand. Use the Commentary on page 135 of this Leader Guide to explain those words and phrases whenever possible. SUMMARIZE: Help group members work through the major points from pages ALTERNATE QUESTION: What attributes should we seek out in those we allow to influence us?

108 and 109 of the PSG.

>> “Paul knew that who we choose to follow is important. He told the Corinthians to follow his example, just as he followed Jesus (see 1 Cor. 11:1).”

>> “First, Paul encouraged Christians to adopt his outlook and values. He included himself in the phrase, ‘we should live up to whatever truth we have attained.’ Second, Paul instructed the Philippians to ‘observe those who live according to the example you have in us.’”

>> “In Philippians 3:18-19, Paul offered several examples we should avoid following. He called them ‘enemies of the cross of Christ.’”

DISCUSS: Question #4 on page 109 of the PSG: “How can we intentionally position ourselves to benefit from the example of others?” TRANSITION: We are all experiencing spiritual growth here on earth. But verses 20-21 remind us of the wonderful truth that our transformation will be fully complete when we see Christ in heaven.

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THE POINT

Day by day, I can become more and more like Jesus.

Philippians 3:15-19 Commentary [Verse 15] Paul used the adjective for mature eight times in his writings, but only twice describing a maturity that has been reached (here and 1 Cor. 2:6). Elsewhere, maturity is the goal (see 1 Cor. 14:20; Eph. 4:13; Col. 1:28). Those with spiritual maturity would think this way: they would value the truths regarding life and continuing maturity as Paul himself did (see Phil. 3:7‑14). Paul left those who think differently to God for correction. Human arguments cannot convince others of the need for spiritual maturity, nor cause it to happen. It’s a work of God. Perhaps some Philippian believers thought they needed no further spiritual development. A teachable attitude is a mature attitude. [Verses 16-17] To live up to has overtones of all traveling to the same destination or living by the same standard. Followers of Christ are responsible to live out what we learn. This produces joy. We are not perfect, but we must live what we know. Just as we are to imitate Christ (see Phil. 2:5‑11), we should also seek godly human role models. This statement is not egotism, as Paul also exhorted believers to seek other role models. He recognized he was not the only one capable of being imitated. They were to imitate others who were like-minded. The sense is of keeping your eyes on the goal, or at least on one who can see the goal. The first believers had Jesus. But after His departure, believers still needed a physical example. We are to live after the example Paul and others have set. [Verses 18-19] The strong emotion here is the only time Scripture records that Paul cried. Enemies describes those who opposed Christ and the practices of gracious humility. But notice they were enemies of the cross of Christ, not of Paul himself. Four statements explain the theology and practice of these enemies. Paul highlighted their desperate end by starting with it. Their result is placed first in this long sentence and is destruction, a fixed doom of eternal damnation. Next, their god is their stomach means the enemies of the cross set their goal on physical desires. They were driven by sensual appetites—for Jews, ritual purity, preserving their self-styled holiness; for Greeks, satisfying physical appetites. Their glory is in their shame. They prided themselves in shameful things. For Greeks it would have meant pagan rituals involving sexual practices and prostitution; for Jews, circumcision of the “shameful” body parts as a requirement for rightness with God. Finally, they are focused on earthly things. Jews focused on rules, regulations, and rituals they imagined would please God. Greeks focused on what would bring power or pleasure. Paul described enemies of the cross as destined for hopelessness, driven by sensual appetites, and dedicated to material things. They choose pride, self-achievement, and self-declared perfection. In contrast to these foolish men are those who joyfully pursue spiritual growth in the humility of Christ. His way is the cross. It is a way of suffering and serving in the present, but also looking ahead to future glory and satisfaction.

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10 minutes

STUDY THE BIBLE Philippians 3:20-21

Notes

… but our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. 21 He will transform the body of our humble condition into the likeness of His glorious body, by the power that enables Him to subject everything to Himself.

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READ: Philippians 3:20-21 on page 110 of the PSG. DISCUSS: Question #5 on page 110 of the PSG: “What makes these verses challenging? What makes them encouraging?” Note: “These verses” can refer to verses 20-21, or to the entire Scripture focus for this session, which includes verses 12-21. DO: Direct group members to complete the activity “Heavenly Identification” on page 111 of the PSG. As time allows, encourage volunteers to share their responses. Instead of a Driver’s License, use the template below to create a “Heavenly ID.” Fill in ALTERNATE QUESTION: Christians are currently citizens of heaven. How should that reality influence your life this week?

the blanks with characteristics that represent your citizenship in God’s kingdom. Name: ________________________________________________ PHOTO

Date of Birth: ___________________________________________ Date Born Again: _________________________________________

Spiritual Gifts: __________________________________________________________ Mission: _______________________________________________________________

RECAP: Challenge your group members by reading aloud the final paragraph from page 110 of the PSG: Each day is a chance to become more like Jesus, and each is another day closer to His return. So keep going. Keep running the race until you see Him face-to-face. GUIDE: Refer back to “The Point” for this session: “Day by day, I can become more and more like Jesus.” Encourage group members to share any final thoughts and questions.

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THE POINT

Day by day, I can become more and more like Jesus.

Philippians 3:20-21 Commentary [Verse 20] Paul contrasted the enemies of the cross (v. 19) with those who have embraced the cross. He declared that the latter’s citizenship is in heaven. The people of Philippi, as a Roman colony with many Roman citizens, thought in terms of citizenship. The stability and security of citizenship were highly valued. Just as the conquering Roman emperor came from Rome, our transforming King will come from heaven. We eagerly wait for the Lord Jesus in His capacity of Savior. “Eagerly wait” is the same Greek term used in Romans 8:19 for creation’s eager anticipation and yearning for its transformation at Christ’s return. Because He is the Lord now exalted above every name (see Phil. 2:9‑11), we are assured our expectation is not in vain. [Verse 21] What a day that will be! When Christ returns, He will transform our bodies, said here to be in humble condition (vile, humiliation; of low estate). This refers to the body in its present state, subject to infirmities, diseases, and death. This body is sadly different from what it was when man was created, and from what it will be in the future. The word translated “transform” speaks of a change brought about from outside that brings about an outward change. Our mortal bodies become immortal. Paul emphatically taught that a part of the Christian hope and expectation that these bodies of ours will be gloriously changed. Our new bodies will be in the likeness of Christ’s own glorious resurrection body. The Greek phrase is literally “the body of His glory.” That would be the body He now has since He has been glorified. We see a small sample of it in the transfiguration (see Matt. 17) and in Jesus’ post-resurrection ministry (see Matt. 28:9‑10; Mark 16:12,19; Luke 24:13‑51; John 20:14‑27; 21:4‑19). However, there is no way we in our present state can know or understand completely the change Christ’s body underwent when He was resurrected. Christ’s heavenly body is of the same nature that believers’ bodies will be in the resurrection (see 1 Cor. 15:44-57). Our body is destined for eternity. Our spirit is already experiencing resurrection with Christ, but our bodies must await this wonderful change. Such an incredible transformation will be accomplished by the power (energeia, see our English “energy”) only Christ possesses. This word is only used of super-human power beyond our realm of operation. This other-worldly power enables Christ to subject everything to Himself. “Subject” is a military term used to describe a general marshaling of forces under authority and direction. Such is Christ’s absolute authority and power to transform, rule, and reign over all of creation. Joy in knowing Christ includes a growing experience with the Son of God. A life-long process, God uses every decision, temptation, and event of our lives as opportunities to further develop His plan in and through us. This vital relationship is superior to the empty promises of false teaching, pride, and reckless living. It unequivocally promises an eternity living in perfect joy in the presence of Jesus Christ. “Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!” (Rev. 22:20).

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5 minutes

LIVE IT OUT GUIDE: Direct group members to page 112 of the PSG. Ask them to consider these suggestions for

Notes

pressing forward in their spiritual growth.

>> Forget what is past. Do you have

something in your past that you need to “forget” in order to run forward? Ask God to impress on you the richness of His grace and to give you strength to run today.

>> See others as Jesus does. As you look at people in our culture who are not following Jesus, do you respond to them with anger? Indifference? Or, do you weep? Pray daily for God to deepen your concern for those who are enemies of the cross.

>> Eliminate sinful habits. Evaluate your life for any sinful habits that restrict you from maturing spiritually. Confess the sin and be aggressive in removing this habit from your life.

Wrap It Up TRANSITION: Read or restate the Conclusion from page 112 of the PSG: You may not be able to run a marathon, let alone win one. But you can run the daily race as a disciple of Jesus. All you need to do is forget the past, focus on Christ, and keep moving forward until the day your transformation is complete. PRAY: Conclude by asking the Holy Spirit to continue your spiritual transformation. Express your desire to strain toward that goal each and every day.

Get expert insights on weekly studies through the Ministry Grid. MinistryGrid.com/web/BibleStudiesForLife 138

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