Philippians 3

Hendriksen

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-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 22 2 8 0 0 CHAPTER III) Summary of Chapter 3) Paul, the Indefatigable Idealist) warning against evil workers (the concision) who by placing confidence in flesh seek to establish their own righteousness and perfection; as contrasted with God s true servants (the circumcision); for example, with Paul, who could boast of many external prerogatives, but has rejected them all and relies completely on the righteousness of Christ, in whom he is pressing on to perfection; exhorting the Philippians to imitate him, to honor the friends and beware of the enemies of the cross, sensualists, who set their minds on things of earth, while believers know that their home-land is in heaven.) 3:1 3 Warning against Judaizers.) 3:4 16 Paul s Example as an Argument against the Judaizers.) 3:4 6 I, Paul, the Jew, had the following advantages (these are enumerated)) 3:7 8a I repudiated these advantages as basis of my righteousness before God.) 3:8b 11 I now rely on another righteousness.) 3:12 16 In Christ I press on to perfection (Paul, the runner).) 3:17 21 Warning against Sensualists. The Home-land in Heaven.) ) 3:1 3) I. Warning against Judaizers) 3 1 For the rest, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me, and for you it is a safeguard. 2 Beware of those dogs, beware of those evil-workers, beware of the concision. 3 For, it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, and glory in Christ Jesus, and put no confidence in flesh.) ) 1. Paul, the joyful servant of Jesus Christ, the optimistic prisoner, the humble cross-bearer, the thoughtful administrator, is also the indefatigable idealist, and in that sense, perfectionist. He seeks perfection in Christ, in whom his soul rejoices.

His creed is, Nothing in myself I bring, only to thy cross I cling. Redemption in Christ is all-sufficient. When the apostle hears that the church of Philippi is being harassed by false teachers who deny this all-sufficiency and trust in ceremonial rites to supplement divine grace, he is deeply disturbed, and writes: For the rest,��124�� my brothers, members of the same spiritual family (see on 1:12 and on 2:25 rejoice. This is by no means the first time Paul has touched on the exalted theme of joy (see also 1:4; 2:17, 18; 2:28, 29), but this time he specifically adds in the Lord, that is, only in union with him, and then solely in the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ, not in anything that man might wish to contribute. This naturally leads the apostle to refer once more to a theme on which he has dwelt repeatedly; namely, that believers should acknowledge their oneness in Christ, and should not permit this unity to be undermined by enemies. It is entirely natural that before returning to this subject he states: To write the same things to you is no trouble to me, and for you it is a safeguard.) It is the duty of militant unity in a world of unbelief and hostility that Paul has set before the church of Philippi previously; first, no doubt, orally, while he was present among them, later in writing.

In this selfsame letter to the Philippians he had already written:) Only continue to exercise your citizenship in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one soul striving side by side for the faith of the gospel and not frightened in anything by the adversaries & make full my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, with souls united setting your minds on unity, doing nothing from selfish ambition or from empty conceit, but in humble-mindedness each counting the other better than himself; each looking not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.& that you may become blameless and guileless, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you are shining as stars in the universe, holding forth the word of life & (1:27, 28; 2:2 4; 2:14 16).) Thus he had clearly warned against the adversaries and had just as clearly summoned the members of the church unitedly to be on their guard against these enemies and to combat them with the only effective weapon, namely, the word of life. But in view of the fact that these opponents are very shrewd, numerous, and determined, and that he, Paul, is filled with love for the Philippians, he writes that to him it is no trouble, no irksome task, to repeat previous warnings, and that for them this is a precaution for their spiritual safety.��125��) And so the adversaries of 1:27, 28 appear once more here in Chapter 3, but now explicitly; first the Judaists (3:2); then the sensualists (3:18, 19).) 2. With respect to the Judaists or Judaizers Paul writes, Beware of those dogs, beware of those evil-workers, beware of the concision. Note the threefold re-iteration, Beware & beware & beware! This can be very effective; for example,) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.3|AUTODETECT|” Holy, holy, holy is Jehovah of hosts 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 6:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 );) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.7.4|AUTODETECT|” The temple of Jehovah, the temple of Jehovah, the temple of Jehovah, is this 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.7.4|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 7:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 );) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Alleluiah! Alleluiah! Alleluiah! Amen (in the refrain of Hark! Ten Thousand Harps and Voices);) Goodnight! Goodnight! Goodnight! (in The Christian s Goodnight);) all the more effective when, as in Beware & beware & beware! they occur in the form of terse commands or exhortations; compare:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.29|AUTODETECT|” O land, land, land, hear the word of Jehovah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.29|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 22:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); or) 1 5 2 8 0 0 Break, break, break (Tennyson, giving expression, in a beautiful little poem, to the burdensome sense of loss on the death of a beloved one).) Here in Philippians also, the three words are, as it were, blows of the gavel, signaling for attention, in order that the church of Philippi by giving heed may be safeguarded against spiritual and moral loss.) It is clear that the apostle had become profoundly disturbed by continued news from Philippi. It was a wonderful congregation, to be sure (4:1), but danger was threatening. It is entirely possible that just now fresh tidings of a renewed onslaught against the very essence of the gospel of salvation through Christ alone had reached him. At any rate, Paul uses vigorous language to guard against the evil. He speaks of dogs, evil-workers, the concision.) It has been said that his language undergoes a sudden change here; that unexpectedly it turns from tenderly loving address to sharp rebuke and denunciation; and that for this reason the present section must belong to another letter. With this judgment I cannot agree.

To be sure, there is here something bordering on fiery vehemence. But an incisive caution against a dangerous foe is not necessarily a sign of lovelessness. On the contrary, the warmer a father s affection for his son, the deeper will be his distress when that son s life is being persistently threatened by shrewd enemies, and the more earnest will be his warnings. So it is also in the present instance. What Paul writes here in verse 2 is in complete harmony with the tender appellation in verse 1, where he addresses the members of the Philippian church as my brothers. ) Now when Paul describes the opponents as those dogs, those evil-workers, the concision, he has in mind one kind of enemy, not three different types. This is clear from the context, which in the present paragraph concerns itself with one foe only: the concision over against the circumcision (see 3a).

Besides, also in 3b a threefold description is given of one type of people, namely, God s true worshipers.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.13.50|AUTODETECT|” But when Paul speaks about the enemy, whom precisely does he have in mind? That he is thinking of Jews is clear from the use of the term the concision and from the entire argument in verses 2 6. But is he thinking of those Jews who persisted in their sullen rejection of the Christ? Or of those Jews who had indeed confessed Jesus but insisted that in order to attain salvation at least complete salvation it was necessary for all, Gentile as well as Jew, to keep the law of Moses, with special emphasis on circumcision? To save space, I shall from this point on call the first group Jews, the second, Judaizers. As I see it, it was the latter group he had in mind.

The words here used form a striking parallel to Paul s denunciation of Judaizing teachers in Galatians (1:6 9; 3:1; 5:1 12, note especially verse 12 there; 6:12 15) and II Corinthians (11:13, cf. deceitful workers there with evil workers here). To be sure, the Jews had followed Paul on his missionary journeys, in order to contradict his message 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.50|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.2|AUTODETECT|” 14:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.14.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.5|AUTODETECT|” 17:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.17.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.18.12|AUTODETECT|” 18:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.1|AUTODETECT|” ; etc.), but so to some extent had the Judaizers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 15:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.6-44.15.29|AUTODETECT|” ). The theory that this latter opposition ceased completely after the council of Jerusalem 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.6-44.15.29|AUTODETECT|” Acts 15:6 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) cannot be substantiated. Rather the opposite. Else why would it have been necessary for Paul to write Galatians? And is it not true that even the Pastoral Epistles (later than Philippians) combat a heresy consisting of the error of the Judaizers mixed with ingredients of other sinister falsehoods? (See N.T.C. on the Pastoral Epistles.)) 1 1 2 8 0 0 When Paul reflects on the fact that the Judaizers are attacking the doctrine of salvation by grace alone and are striving to substitute for it a mixture of divine favor and human merit, with emphasis on the latter, he flings at them the derisive epithet which the Jews were always applying to the Gentiles. Dogs he calls them. He is thinking not of pets but of pariahs, large, savage, and ugly. One could see them almost everywhere, prowling about the garbage and the rubbish thrown into the streets. In comparing the Judaizers with these loathsome scavengers Paul has in mind all, or more likely some, of the following items; certainly item (1).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.26.11|AUTODETECT|” Are these dogs (1) unclean and filthy 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.26.11|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 26:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.2.22|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=61.2.22|AUTODETECT|” II Peter 2:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.6|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.15|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 22:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.59.6|AUTODETECT|” )? So are also the Judaizers as to their motives. Do these (2) howl and snarl 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.59.6|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 59:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.56.11|AUTODETECT|” )? So do also those, uttering loud and angry words against the true doctrine. Are these (3) greedy and shameless 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.56.11|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 56:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.9.8|AUTODETECT|” )? So are also those, for they would devour the church. Are the former (4) contemptible 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.9.8|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 9:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.16.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.16.9|AUTODETECT|” 16:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.8.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.8.13|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 8:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )? So are also the latter. Other characteristics common to both dogs and Judaizers might be added; such as, (5) insolent, (6) cunning, and (7) roaming. The metaphor was apt.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.37|AUTODETECT|” Workers Paul also calls these men. Yes, church-workers are they. Right inside the church they themselves, as church-members, recognized as such somewhere, are carrying on their work. Missionaries are they, propagandizers! Was there not and is there not always a crying need for workers? Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.37|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 9:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.38|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.9.38|AUTODETECT|” 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.13|AUTODETECT|” . But note the modifier: evil workers. These men are wicked laborers, malicious toilers. Cf. deceitful workers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.13|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.27|AUTODETECT|” ) and workers of iniquity 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.27|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). By no means are they workers of righteousness. Instead of helping the good cause, they actually harm it. They draw the attention away from Christ and his accomplished redemption, and fix it upon an outworn ritual, and upon human worth and attainment in insisting upon its perpetuation and application. Here is Satan s demolition crew. It is working very hard to demolish God s beautiful palace of grace and peace.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The scorching parody continues as Paul adds: The concision, that is, the mutilation-party, a name here scornfully given to those who insisted on the cutting away of the foreskin of the body only, not also of the heart. The apostle contrasts concision with circumcision.��126��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.28|AUTODETECT|” What he means when he thus castigates the Judaizers with their emphasis on the outward rite of circumcision, as if the mere rite apart from the inner consecration of the heart were of any value, is set forth by himself in these words: For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision which is outward in flesh; but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; whose circumcision is that of the heart, in spirit, not in (the) letter; whose praise is not of men but of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.28|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.26.41|AUTODETECT|” ). For circumcision of heart cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.26.41|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 26:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.10.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.10.16|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 10:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.30.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.30.6|AUTODETECT|” 30:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.4.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.44.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.44.7|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 44:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.6.10|AUTODETECT|” ; of ear, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.6.10|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 6:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.6.12|AUTODETECT|” ; and of lips, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.6.12|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 6:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.6.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.6.30|AUTODETECT|” 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.11|AUTODETECT|” . This is Christian circumcision 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ). On the other hand, the circumcision merely of the body, especially when this is performed and insisted upon by those who profess to believe in Jesus as Savior, is worse than useless. It is actually mutilation, cutting away, spiritual destruction, for if anyone receives this kind of circumcision, Christ will profit him not at all 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.6-48.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.6-48.1.8|AUTODETECT|” 1:6 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He will be farther removed from Christ than he ever was before!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.24|AUTODETECT|” 3. Beware of such leaders, says Paul, for it is not they but we who are the circumcision. We Christians out of Jews and Gentiles 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 9:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.9|AUTODETECT|” ) are the truly circumcized ones. The Jew is no better than the Gentile 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.9|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.24|AUTODETECT|” ). There is no distinction; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.16|AUTODETECT|” ). This Jew-Gentile church, the church in which neither circumcision nor uncircumcision amounts to anything, is the Israel of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.16|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.9|AUTODETECT|” ). All those who belong to this church have Abraham as their father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.9|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ). The middle wall of partition, separating Jew and Gentile, has been completely broken down, never to be rebuilt. Through Christ both have their access in one Spirit unto the Father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.16|AUTODETECT|” Language could not be clearer. The notion that God even today recognizes two favored groups on the one hand the church and on the other the Jews is thoroughly unscriptural. What Paul teaches here is, moreover, entirely in harmony with what is taught elsewhere. Jesus said, I also have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. Them also I must lead, and they will listen to my voice, and become one flock, one shepherd 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.16|AUTODETECT|” John 10:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ). And Peter applies to the church of the New Testament period the very terms which in the old dispensation pertain to the people of Israel. He writes, But you are an elect race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for (God s) own possession 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.9|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.19-43.4.24|AUTODETECT|” A threefold description is now given of the truly circumcized. Yet, although in this description there are three grammatically parallel elements, items two and three describe essentially the same mark, first positively, then negatively. Hence, there are just two distinctive marks. The first one is: we who worship by the Spirit of God.��127�� Their religious worship��128�� is Spirit-guided. It proceeds from personalities renewed and energized by the Holy Spirit. Hence, it is wholly from the heart, and is not hampered by physical considerations.

It does not ask, Is the flesh of the worshipers circumcized or not circumcized? Is the place of worship a beautiful cathedral or a simple home? Must we worship on Mt. Gerizim or in Jerusalem? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.19-43.4.24|AUTODETECT|” John 4:19 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.26|AUTODETECT|” The second distinctive mark is expressed positively as follows: and glory in Christ Jesus. Paul is fond of this word glorying, boasting, or exulting. He uses it about 35 times 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.26|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.19|AUTODETECT|” ), mostly in I and II Corinthians. In all the rest of the New Testament it occurs only twice 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.19|AUTODETECT|” James 1:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.4.16|AUTODETECT|” 4:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.9.23|AUTODETECT|” ). The apostle loves the beautiful Jeremiah passage 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.9.23|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 9:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.9.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.9.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.31|AUTODETECT|” ), and in abbreviated form quotes it both in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.31|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.10.17|AUTODETECT|” and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.10.17|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 10:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.2|AUTODETECT|” . Those whose hearts hence also lips and ears have been circumcized make their boast in the Lord, in him alone. Such boasters rely entirely on Christ Jesus, the Anointed Savior; on his person and work. They glory in his cross, that is, in his atonement, as the only basis for their salvation. His presence is their consolation. His power provides them with energy to endure persecution and to raise and carry forward into battle the banner of the cross. On his unfailing, sovereign grace they rest for time and for eternity. Let the apostle be his own interpreter: For I determined not to know anything among you but Jesus Christ, and him crucified 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.2|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.14|AUTODETECT|” ). But far be it for me to glory, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world was crucified to me, and I to the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.6.14|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 35 2 8 0 0 My hope is built on nothing less) Than Jesus blood and righteousness;) I dare not trust the sweetest frame,) But wholly lean on Jesus name.) On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand;) All other ground is sinking sand. ) (Edward Mote)) Negatively, this is expressed as follows: and put no confidence in flesh. It stands to reason that if a person is constantly making his boast in Christ Jesus, he will put no confidence in flesh, for what is flesh? In broad terms, flesh is anything apart from Christ on which one bases his hope for salvation. In the present context it refers to merely human advantages and attainments, ceremonial, hereditary, legal, and moral in character (note Paul s own explanation in verses 4 6). It is the merely carnal self, viewed as a ground of eternal security.��129�� It was on this self that the Judaizers relied. They boasted in mere flesh.

In fact the term fitted them not only in the broader sense, as explained, but even in a more restricted sense, for they insisted on the circumcision of the literal, physical flesh.) Now the truly circumcized place confidence not in flesh but in Christ alone.) Paul had been saying, For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, and glory in Christ Jesus, and put no confidence in flesh. Turning now from we to I he continues:) ) 3:4 16) II. Paul s Example as an Argument against the Judaizers) 4 though I myself have reason for confidence even in flesh. If anyone else imagines that he has reason for confidence in flesh, I (have) more: 5 circumcized on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews, as to law a Pharisee, 6 as to zeal persecuting the church, as to legal righteousness having become blameless. 7 Nevertheless, such things as once were gains to me these have I counted loss for Christ. 8 Yes, what is more, I certainly do count all things to be sheer loss because of the all-surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I suffered the loss of all these things, and I am still counting them refuse, in order that I may gain Christ, 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own, legal righteousness, but that (which is) through faith in Christ, the righteousness (which is) from God (and rests) on faith; 10 that I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and (the) fellowship of his sufferings, becoming increasingly conformed to his death, 11 if only I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.) 12 Not that I have already gotten hold or have already been made perfect, but I am pressing on (to see) if I can also take hold of that for which I was laid hold on by Christ Jesus. 13 Brothers, I do not count myself yet to have laid hold, but one thing (I do), forgetting what lies behind (me) and eagerly straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I am pressing on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Accordingly, let us, as many as are mature, continue to set our mind on this, and if on some minor point you are differently minded, that, too God will make plain to you. 16 Only, let our conduct be consistent with the level we have attained.) ) A. I, Paul, the Jew, Had the Following Advantages ) (1) I, not They (at least not in the same degree)) (2) What My Parents Gave Me) a. Circumcision) circumcized on the eighth day ) b, c, d.

Noble Birth) of the people of Israel ) of the tribe of Benjamin ) a Hebrew of Hebrews ) (3) What I, Through My Own Efforts Attained) e. Recognition as a Pharisee) as to law a Pharisee ) f. Zeal) as to zeal persecuting the church ) g. Legal Rectitude) as to legal righteousness having become blameless ) 3:4 6) A. I, Paul, the Jew, Had the Following Advantages ) 1. I, not They (at least not in the same degree)) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.17|AUTODETECT|” 4. By means of a telling argument, taken from his own experience, the apostle now presents himself as being, by God s grace, an example 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) of God s true servants, as contrasted with those who were putting confidence in flesh. He writes, though I myself have reason for confidence��130�� even in flesh. He emphasizes I myself (even more than the Judaizers). He cannot very well say, We ourselves, for though the trusting in Christ alone is true of all God s genuine servants, yet the particular experience which the apostle is about to relate (in verses 4 7) pertained to himself alone, not literally to all Christians or to all the members of the church at Philippi, in Rome, or anywhere else. When he now writes that he himself has reason for confidence even in flesh, he does not mean that, after all, he does regard ceremonial and hereditary advantages and personal attainments to have saving value. On the contrary, he means that if this were actually the case, then he himself, even more than the Judaizers, would be entitled to such a ground of trust.

This is in line with his own explanation, namely, If anyone else he has the Judaizer in mind, of course imagines that he has reason for confidence in flesh, I (have) more. The question might be asked, But if Paul does not attach any merit for eternity to these Jewish distinctions, why then does he give us this list of special privileges which he, as a Jew, had enjoyed? Two reasons immediately present themselves. He does this:) 1 3 2 8 0 0 a. To answer the possible charge, Paul is decrying privileges to which he himself cannot lay claim. He minimizes them because he never had them and cannot get them. The grapes are sour. This possible charge is answered in verses 5 and 6.) b. To refute the argument of the Judaizers that there is saving value in these distinctions.

The apostle is going to show, from his own experience, that what he had considered gain turned out to be loss. This he does in verses 7 11.) As to a., the apostle shows that if the Judaizers present their list of special advantages, and Paul places his own list next to theirs, he, adopting for the sake of argument their foolish line of reasoning, emerges as a winner in this competition. On that basis the apostle has a right to speak, being in every sense an authentic Jew.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.22-47.11.33|AUTODETECT|” It is in that sense that the apostle now presents his credentials. In particulars the list here is on the whole substantially different from that in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.22-47.11.33|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:22 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.21|AUTODETECT|” . Yet the argument is the same, namely, If there must be boasting, I, too, can indulge in it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.21|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.5|AUTODETECT|” ). And so we come to Paul s list here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , with its seven items.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 2. What My Parents Gave Me) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.17.12|AUTODETECT|” 5, 6. circumcized on the eighth day. The reason why the apostle mentions circumcision before giving any details with respect to his ancestry is probably that it was this very rite for which the Judaizers contended most of all. With respect to circumcision I am an eighth-day-er, ��131�� writes Paul. This was in strict accordance with the law 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.17.12|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 17:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.12.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.12.3|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 12:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.21.4|AUTODETECT|” ). Isaac was circumcized when he was eight days old 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.21.4|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 21:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.21|AUTODETECT|” );��132�� so was Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But the same thing could probably not be said for every Judaizer. In all likelihood some of these were proselytes from the Gentile world, and as a result had been circumcized not on the eighth day but as adults. In this respect, therefore, Paul excelled them, that is, if circumcision according to law was an advantage.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.32.28|AUTODETECT|” of the people of Israel. His parents did not belong to a mixed stock, like so many people who were living in Palestine at that time, nor had they been grafted into Israel. He was a direct descendant not only of Abraham (the Ishmaelites were also Abraham s offspring), nor only of Abraham and Isaac (the Edomites could claim as much), but of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It was to Jacob, after his wrestling with God, that God himself had given the new and significant name Israel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.32.28|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 32:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.19.5|AUTODETECT|” ). Of this very Israel Paul was a descendant. He belonged therefore to the chosen people, the people of the covenant, the specially privileged people 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.19.5|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 19:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.19.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.19.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.23.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.23.9|AUTODETECT|” Num. 23:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.147.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.147.19|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 147:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.147.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.147.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Amos 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.4|AUTODETECT|” 9:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Were the Judaizers able truthfully to claim such purity of descent for every one of their party?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.5.14|AUTODETECT|” of the tribe of Benjamin. Why does Paul mention this? According to several commentators, for reasons such as the following: the Benjamites were Israel s �lite, its highest aristocracy. Did not the tribe always have the place of honor in Israel s line of battle? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.5.14|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 5:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.5.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Hos. 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.20.16|AUTODETECT|” ) This tribe, moreover, produced seven hundred picked men lefthanded; every one could sling stones at a hairbreadth, and not miss 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.20.16|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 20:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.8.40|AUTODETECT|” ); also mighty men of valor, archers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.8.40|AUTODETECT|” I Chron. 8:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.9.1|AUTODETECT|” ). These interpreters add that Israel s first king was a Benjamite 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.9.1|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 9:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.9.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.9.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.21|AUTODETECT|” ). According to J. B. Lightfoot, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.21|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 it is with marked emphasis that Paul himself refers to King Saul. Had not the apostle received his Hebrew name from this very king?��133�� It is also said that the tribe of Benjamin was unique among all the tribes of Israel in always remaining loyal to the Davidic dynasty. A very noble, a most illustrious tribe, this tribe of Benjamin!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.5.14|AUTODETECT|” I fear, however, that this oft displayed picture is somewhat off balance, that this representation suffers from lack of careful exegesis. Is it correct to say that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.5.14|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 5:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.5.8|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Hos. 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.3.15|AUTODETECT|” , in their respective contexts, prove that this tribe always held the place of honor in Israel s line of battle? It is doubtful, to say the least, whether Paul, in referring with pride to his descent from Benjamin, was thinking of Ehud and the other southpaws 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 3:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.20.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.20.16|AUTODETECT|” 20:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.15.10|AUTODETECT|” ); or of the archers, for that matter. As to Israel s first king, he was hardly a person of whom a deeply religious Jew could be particularly proud 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.15.10|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 15:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.15.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.15.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.15.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.15.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.28.15-9.28.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.28.15-9.28.19|AUTODETECT|” 28:15 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.21|AUTODETECT|” ).��134�� I believe that Lightfoot is wrong in his interpretation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.21|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.2.0|AUTODETECT|” , and that Lenski is right when he states that no motive of pride actuated Paul in making mention of King Saul. And finally, as to this tribe s unswerving loyalty to David, fact is that after Saul s death Benjamin yielded rather reluctantly to David 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.2.0|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.32|AUTODETECT|” and 3). And at the disruption of the kingdom it was indeed the one tribe of Judah but by no means the entire tribe of Benjamin that followed the house of David 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.32|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 11:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.12.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.12.20|AUTODETECT|” 12:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.19.22-7.19.26|AUTODETECT|” Not only is the lavish praise bestowed on Benjamin somewhat out of line with history and exegesis, but other well-established and recorded facts with reference to this tribe are being conveniently ignored. Left unmentioned, for example, is the fact that it was precisely in this very tribe of Benjamin that a great atrocity had been committed, described in some detail 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.19.22-7.19.26|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 19:22 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.20.35|AUTODETECT|” ). When the other tribes demanded punishment for the wrongdoers, this was refused, with, as result, dire retribution for the guilty tribe 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.20.35|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 20:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.21.20|AUTODETECT|” ). Then there was the rape at Shiloh! 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.21.20|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 21:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.21.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.21.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.16.5-10.16.14|AUTODETECT|” ). Surely, there must be a more honorable solution to the wife-shortage problem than the horrible expedient adopted by the tribe of Benjamin, upon the advice let this be added in the interest of complete objectivity of the other tribes. Finally, there was Shimei, who cursed and threw stones at God s anointed, David. This profane fellow, too, was a Benjamite 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.16.5-10.16.14|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 16:5 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.19.16-10.19.20|AUTODETECT|” ). He repented, at least outwardly 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.19.16-10.19.20|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 19:16 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.2.36-11.2.46|AUTODETECT|” ). Subsequently, however, he failed to keep his oath to Jehovah, and was slain 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.2.36-11.2.46|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 2:36 46) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.1|AUTODETECT|” Since then it is a fact that the tribe of Benjamin presents such a mixture of light and shadow, virtue and vice, with the latter frequently predominating, why did Paul, in his pre-Christian state to which he here refers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), take such pride in being a Benjamite? The probable answer is as follows: Israel, as a theocratic people, was the recipient of God s special promises. Hence, the more convincingly Paul would be able to prove the proposition, I am, indeed, an Israelite, the more inescapable would be the conclusion, Therefore I am a specially privileged person. Now of all the tribes none was more Israelitish than Benjamin.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.16-1.35.20|AUTODETECT|” Whether or not the circumstance that Benjamin was the only son of Israel who was born in the land of promise 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.16-1.35.20|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 35:16 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.17|AUTODETECT|” ) has any particular bearing here would be hard to establish. But the following facts surely are significant. First, in common with Joseph but in distinction from the other patriarchs, Benjamin was not only a son of Israel but also of Israel s most beloved wife, Rachel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.17|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 35:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.12.21|AUTODETECT|” ). And secondly, of these two favored sons (Joseph and Benjamin) it was Benjamin alone (be it only part of his tribe) who, together with Judah, after the disruption formed Israel Reconstituted 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.12.21|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 12:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ); after the return from the captivity, Israel Restored 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.4.14|AUTODETECT|” );��135�� and who in connection with the plot of Haman, was God s chief agent in bringing forth Israel Delivered (see Book of Esther). Moreover, in thinking of the tribe of Benjamin it would be unfair to mention Shimei and then to leave out that other Benjamite, Mordecai. It was he who encouraged Esther to perform a great deed of faith and courage, and who gave us that marvelous saying, For if you keep altogether silent at such a time as this, then relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another quarter, but you and your father s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.4.14|AUTODETECT|” Esther 4:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 The conclusion then is this: if indeed there were saving value, merit for eternity, in the special distinction of being an Israelite, then Paul was entitled to it, for, being a Benjamite, he surely was a most authentic Israelite. Could the Judaizers make an equally strong case for themselves? Yes, Paul was of the tribe of Benjamin, and therefore:) a Hebrew of Hebrews. Paul was, indeed, a Hebrew, that is, an Israelite.��136�� He was in fact a Hebrew of Hebrews, that is, purest of the pure. The idiom stresses at least��137�� the purity of his lineage: Hebrew son of Hebrew parents; hence, definitely a Hebrew, a Hebrew if there ever was one! In this way he emphasizes what was already implied in the preceding.

He is proving this one point.) 3. What I, Through My Own Efforts, Attained) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.6|AUTODETECT|” as to law a Pharisee. With reference to the law of Moses Paul had chosen to become a Pharisee. Was he not a son of Pharisees 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.23.6|AUTODETECT|” Acts 23:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.14|AUTODETECT|” )?��138�� And here he reflects how in his pre-Christian period he prided himself in this fact, namely, in his position and honor as a Pharisee. He had advanced in the religion of the Jews beyond many of his own age among his countrymen and had been exceedingly zealous for the traditions of his ancestors 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.5|AUTODETECT|” ). After the strictest sect of our religion I lived, a Pharisee, he himself declared 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.5|AUTODETECT|” Acts 26:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.2|AUTODETECT|” But how could a Jew ever take pride in being a Pharisee? Did not Jesus describe the Pharisees in language which plainly states or else implies that they were snobs and peacocks 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.2|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.5-40.23.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.5-40.23.7|AUTODETECT|” 23:5 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.16-40.23.22|AUTODETECT|” ), hair-splitters and fools 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.16-40.23.22|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 23:16 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.33|AUTODETECT|” ), serpents and the offspring of vipers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.33|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 23:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.3|AUTODETECT|” ), cheats and hypocrites 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.3|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 23:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.27|AUTODETECT|” 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.18|AUTODETECT|” )? Did they not make one think of green-eyed monsters 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.18|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.7.13|AUTODETECT|” All this is true, but not all Pharisees were equally bad. Pharisaism, moreover, in its origin was not nearly as bad as it became later on. This religious party originated during the inter-testamentary period as a reaction to the excesses of those careless and indifferent Jews who had imbibed the Hellenistic spirit in its unsavory aspects. So the Pharisees or Separatists had withdrawn themselves from these worldly persons. They abstained also from politics and placed great stress on religious purity. They accepted the entire Torah, the doctrines of the immortality of the soul, the resurrection of the body, and the existence of angels.

They were neither chauvinists like the Zealots, nor radicals like the Sadducees, nor politicians like the Herodians. Their high regard for the law of God deserves admiration. It explains Paul s pre-Christian pride expressed in the words as to law a Pharisee. They made their great mistake when they began to attach high value to the entire system of legalistic interpretations which the scribes superimposed upon the law, burying the law itself under the load of their traditions 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.7.13|AUTODETECT|” Mark 7:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.49|AUTODETECT|” ), and when they began to think that by means of their own strict adherence to the law, so interpreted, they could bring about the coming of the Messiah and secure for themselves entrance into the kingdom of heaven. Of course, the attempt to achieve all this was far too great a strain on human nature. Hence, it is no wonder that many of them became hypocrites, some worse than others; also self-righteous, looking down with disdain upon the mere riffraff, this rabble that does not know the law 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.49|AUTODETECT|” John 7:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.9|AUTODETECT|” ). Now Paul must have been one of the better Pharisees 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.9|AUTODETECT|” Acts 26:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), but deluded nevertheless.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.23|AUTODETECT|” as to zeal persecuting the church. Paul had been one of the most bitter haters of the early Christians. In his zeal for the law, as misinterpreted by the scribes and Pharisees 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 23:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.1|AUTODETECT|” ), he had breathed threatening and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, that is, the Church in its ecumenical sense, carrying out his program of molestation even to foreign cities, putting in chains and committing to prisons both men and women 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.1-44.22.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.1-44.22.5|AUTODETECT|” 22:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.9-44.26.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.9-44.26.15|AUTODETECT|” 26:9 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.9|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). If persecuting zeal could ever have opened the gates of heaven, Paul would have walked right in! Here, too, his advantage over the Judaizers was great. They merely proselyted. He had been a persecutor even unto the death. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.15|AUTODETECT|” as to legal righteousness having become blameless. So strict had Paul been in his outward observance of the Old Testament law, as interpreted by the Jewish religious leaders, that in the pursuit of this legal rectitude he had become blameless 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.15|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.3|AUTODETECT|” ), that is, in human judgment. His outward conduct had been irreproachable. Could the Judaists claim the same with respect to themselves? Or was ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.3|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 23:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.23.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 also applicable, to some extent, to them?) 1 5 2 8 0 0 3:7, 8a) B. I Repudiated These Advantages As Basis of My Righteousness before God) 7, 8a. In the two preceding verses Paul has enumerated his superior advantages as a genuine Israelite, of noble birth, orthodox in his belief, and scrupulous in his conduct. By means of these advantages the apostle, in his pre-conversion period, had been bleeding to climb to God. But had it not been a case of) Gaining a foothold bit by bit) Then slipping back and losing it ?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.1-44.9.31|AUTODETECT|” Worse even, for never at all had there been any real progress, no matter how hard he, Paul the Pharisee, had labored to establish his own righteousness. But on the way to Damascus to persecute Christians the great event occurred which changed his entire life. Christ, as it were, came down the stairs to him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.1-44.9.31|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:1 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.1-44.22.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.1-44.22.21|AUTODETECT|” 22:1 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.1-44.26.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.1-44.26.23|AUTODETECT|” 26:1 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ). In a moment Paul saw himself as he really was, a deluded, self-righteous, damnable sinner. Then and there he embraced the One whom until now he had been persecuting with might and main. He became a new creature. In his mind and heart he experienced a complete turn-about, a sudden and dramatic reversal of all values. The cause which with every means at his disposal and with all the zeal of heart and will he had been trying to wipe out now became very dear to him.

And also, those things which to Paul, the Pharisee, had seemed very precious became at this moment and ever after remained useless to Paul, the sinner, saved by grace; and not merely useless but definitely harmful. Writes Paul, Nevertheless, such things as once were gains to me these have I counted loss. Not that any of these things which he enumerated in verses 5 and 6, and other things like them, were bad in themselves. Quite the contrary. To receive the sign of the covenant is not bad in itself. It is, in fact, a blessing.

And was it not a blessing to belong to that people to which the oracles of God had been entrusted? Orthodoxy, too, is in itself a good thing. So is zeal, and so certainly also is irreproachable conduct. Paul himself elsewhere informs us that he considers such things as these to be blessings 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.1-45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.1-45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” 9:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.1|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.1|AUTODETECT|” 11:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.26|AUTODETECT|” ). They are blessings because they can be of inestimable value if properly used, namely, as a preparation for the reception of the gospel. But when these same privileges begin to be viewed as a basis for self-satisfaction and self-glorification, when they are regarded as a ticket to heaven, they are changed into their opposites. All these separate gains become one huge loss. This is Paul s deliberate, considered judgment. He considered the gains, and counted��139�� them loss.

And in that judgment he persisted, as is implied in the tense of the Greek verb. On his balance-sheet those things which once were included, one by one, in the column of assets have now been transferred to the column of liabilities, and have been entered as one gigantic liability. Note that the plusses have not become a zero (0), but have become even less than zero, that is, one colossal MINUS (-). For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.36|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.36|AUTODETECT|” Mark 8:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.0|AUTODETECT|” The word loss which Paul uses here in verses 7 and 8, and nowhere else in his epistles, occurs in only one other New Testament chapter, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.0|AUTODETECT|” Acts 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.27.38|AUTODETECT|” (verses 10 and 21), in the story of The Voyage Dangerous. And it is exactly that same chapter which also indicates how gain may become loss. The cargo on that ship bound for Italy represented potential gain for the merchants, for the owner of the ship, and for hungry people. Yet, had not this wheat been thrown into the sea 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.27.38|AUTODETECT|” Acts 27:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), loss, not only of the ship but even of all those on board, might well have been the result. Thus also, the advantage of being born in a Christian home and having received a wonderful Christian home-training, becomes a disadvantage when it is viewed as a basis upon which to build one s hope for eternity. The same holds with respect to money, the charming look, a college education, physical strength, etc. All such helps may become hindrances. The stepping-stones will be turned into stumbling blocks, if wrongly used.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 When the question is asked, Why was it that, in Paul s considered judgment, these gains had become a loss? the answer is for Christ, that is, for the sake of Christ; for, had Paul been unwilling to renounce his former estimate of these privileges and achievements, they would have deprived him of Christ, the one real gain (see verse 8).) Paul continues, in a sentence that is almost untranslatable,��140�� Yes, what is more, I certainly do count all things to be sheer loss because of the all-surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.) In verse 8 Paul strengthens his previous statement, and this in two ways. First, he underscores what was implied in the preceding, namely, that what he counted loss at the moment of his conversion he is still counting to be loss. It is as if he were saying, On this subject no Judaizer will ever be able to change my mind. Secondly, he now affirms that he considers not only the things mentioned in verses 5 and 6 to be a liability, a detriment, but also all other things that could stand in the way of fully accepting Christ and his righteousness. We may think of such matters as making too much of earthly possessions, delight in intimate fellowship with former anti-Christian friends, anticipation centered on even more brilliant prospects as a Pharisee, etc. All such matters and many more are nothing but sheer loss, and this because of hence also in comparison with the all-surpassingness,��141�� that is, the all-surpassing excellence or value, of knowing Christ Jesus��142�� & Lord.

On the way to Damascus Paul had learned to know Jesus. Although there had been ample preparation for this knowledge such as, Paul s acquaintance with the Old Testament, the testimonies he had heard from the lips of the martyrs, their behavior under fire , when it broke in upon the soul, the experience was sudden and dramatic. Prophecy and testimony began to take on meaning now. It was an unforgettable experience, that meeting with the exalted Christ, while, a moment before, the apostle had still been breathing threatening and slaughter against Christ s Church, hence against this very Christ himself! Yes, he now saw and heard the actual Jesus, about whom he had been told so much. And he saw and heard him now as Christ Jesus & Lord, the name above every name (see on 2:9 11).

And at the same time he here and now began to understand something of the condescending pity and tenderness of Christ s great and merciful heart, a love poured out upon him, even upon Paul, the bitter persecutor!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.21|AUTODETECT|” All this had occurred about thirty years ago. And during the period that intervened between the Great Experience and the writing of the present epistle to the Philippians, the joy of knowing, with a knowledge of both mind and heart (see on verse 10), Christ Jesus & Lord had been growing constantly, so that it outshone everything in beauty and desirability. Hence, Paul inserts a little word which makes that beautiful name, that wonderful name, that matchless name of Jesus even more adorable. He says Christ Jesus my Lord. What this appropriating my implies is better explained by Paul himself. Read ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.13|AUTODETECT|” 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.8-47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.8-47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 12:8 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.15|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.20|AUTODETECT|” 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.14|AUTODETECT|” 6:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1-51.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1-51.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:1 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.5|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.12|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . According to these passages Christ Jesus is much more than Paul s Example and Friend. He is his Life, Lover, Strength, Boast, Rock, Rewarder, and especially as here, his Anointed Savior and Sovereign.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.25|AUTODETECT|” As before the rising sun the stars fade out, and as in the presence of the pearl of great price all other gems lose their luster, so fellowship with Christ Jesus my Lord eclipses all else. And it is Christ himself of whom Paul is thinking, not this or that matter about Christ. Paul is in complete agreement with the poet who said, (not What but) Whom have I in heaven but thee? And there is none on earth that I desire besides thee 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.25|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 73:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The apostle continues, for whom I suffered the loss of all these things.��143�� It was for the sake of his Lord and Savior that Paul had lost whatever was at one time very dear to him: pride of tradition, of ancestry, of orthodoxy, of outward conformity with the law, and of whatever else there had been on which he had formerly depended as gateways to the heavenly city. Moreover his attitude of having willingly suffered this loss has not changed at all. So he continues, and I am still counting them refuse. What the Judaizers prize so very highly, the apostle considers to be nothing but refuse, something that is fit only to be thrown to the dogs.��144�� The apostle is very consistent. Had he not, just a moment ago (see 3:2), called these dangerous enemies dogs? Paul, then, considers all these inherited privileges and human attainments, considered as merits, to be something that must be discarded as worthless leavings, abominable trash.) 1 8 2 8 0 0 3:8b 11) C. I Now Rely on Another Righteousness) (1) It is Christ s) (2) It is not merited by works performed by man, law-works) (3) It is appropriated by faith) (4) It comes from God) (5) It results in a striving after spiritual perfection) 1. It is Christ s) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.1|AUTODETECT|” 8b, 9a. I am still counting them refuse, says Paul, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him.��145�� Paul wishes to make Christ more and more fully his own. As long as one keeps clinging, even in the slightest degree, to his own righteousness, he cannot fully enjoy Christ s. The two simply do not go together. The one must be fully given up before the other can be fully appropriated. It is Paul s great aim that in the observation of all his fellow-believers he may be found to be completely in him, that is, in union with Christ. For the meaning of in Christ see also on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.0|AUTODETECT|” . Here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.0|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.31|AUTODETECT|” this in him relationship is described as to its forensic side in verse 9, and as to its practical side in verse 10. The in him relationship means that Christ s righteousness is imputed to the sinner, so that it is reckoned as his own. This implies redemption from the claims of Satan 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.31|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.33|AUTODETECT|” 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.18-47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ), reconciliation with God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.18-47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:18 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ), forgiveness of sins 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.1-45.8.4|AUTODETECT|” ), hence, the state of being in conformity with the law of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.1-45.8.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.36|AUTODETECT|” Now when Paul states that he is counting everything to be refuse in order that he may gain Christ and may be found in him, this sacrifice with the purpose of capturing the one, real prize must not be interpreted in a selfish, mercenary sense. It must, of course, be interpreted in the light of such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.36|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.31|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 10:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.10.21|AUTODETECT|” . It is the glory of God that Paul has in mind, not just his own selfish benefit. To be sure, he is not forgetting himself. His is, in fact, seeking to promote his own welfare, which is altogether right and proper. But this ideal is never separated from the highest possible objective. The two go together.

Hence, Paul is not like a man who sells an article in order to make a huge profit for himself, to be used entirely on himself. He is not like a fisherman using bait in order to catch a big fish, to be proudly displayed. Nor even like a chess-player who sacrifices Knight and Queen in order to checkmate his opponent s King, for the simple pleasure of winning the game. No, the apostle is more like a sea-captain who in time of war, for patriotic reasons jettisons his cargo, thereby lightening his ship so that it will have the speed needed to overtake and capture the enemy s vessel that contains a far more precious treasure. Even better, he is like a young man, heir to a going concern, who cheerfully gives up this inheritance in order that he may prepare himself for the ideal of his life: that of rendering service to the Lord in the work of the ministry, whether at home or abroad. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.21|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 2. It is not merited by works performed by man, law-works) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.23|AUTODETECT|” 9b. Says Paul, not having a righteousness of my own, legal righteousness (or: a righteousness proceeding from law). The apostle s meaning is: not in any sense can the righteousness that counts before God be regarded as based on my own accomplishments in conformity with the Old Testament law. Sin earns wages 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.23|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.5|AUTODETECT|” ). This return is paid to those who deserve it. But God s righteousness is given to the undeserving. God justifies the ungodly. Christ died for the ungodly 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.5|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 4:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.6|AUTODETECT|” 5:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Titus 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 3. It is appropriated by faith) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Not righteousness proceeding from law, says Paul, but that (which is) through faith in Christ. Faith is the appropriating agent, the hand extended to receive God s free gift. Since the only righteousness that has any value before God is Christ s righteousness imputed to the sinner as God s free gift to the undeserving, it stands to reason that the only possible way to obtain this righteousness is to accept it (one accepts, one does not earn, a gift!) by simple faith, that is, by appropriating confidence in the Giver; hence also in his word. God s Anointed is himself the object of this childlike trust 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.21|AUTODETECT|” 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.20|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.22|AUTODETECT|” 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=35.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=35.2.4|AUTODETECT|” Hab. 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 4. It comes from God) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.24|AUTODETECT|” The faith-appropriation is repeated for the sake of emphasis, but first one more element is added: the divine origin of this righteousness. Hence, the righteousness (which is) from God (and rests) on faith. This righteousness is provided by God and avails before God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.3|AUTODETECT|” 8:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.19|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ). Its possession and enjoyment rests on, is conditioned on, faith, faith possessed and exercised by man, to be sure 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ), and for which man is fully responsible, but given, nurtured, and rewarded by God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 12 2 8 0 0 5. It results in a striving after spiritual perfection) 10. Paul continues, that I may know him. Here he resumes the thought of verse 8 , but also links his words to the immediately preceding idea of the righteousness (which is) from God (and rests) on faith. The progress of thought here is altogether natural. The experience of every person who has been brought out of the darkness into God s marvelous light, and has felt in his heart the glory of Christ s pardoning love is that he will sing:) More about Jesus would I know,) More of his grace to others show;) More of his saving fulness see,) More of his love who died for me.) More, more about Jesus,) More, more about Jesus,) More of his saving fulness see,) More of his love who died for me. ) (E.

E. Hewitt)) Thus the faith-appropriation of the righteousness (which is) from God and contemplation upon this fact implies, calls forth, the ardent yearning, that I may get to know Christ better and better.��146�� And, considering the matter from God s side, we can say that when God justifies his child he also sends forth his sanctifying Spirit into the heart. Hence, from the divine side the link between righteousness imputed and righteousness imparted is the Holy Spirit; from the human side ever dependent upon the divine the link is the gratitude of faith.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.3|AUTODETECT|” Now that I may know him refers to a knowledge not only of the mind but also of the heart. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.3|AUTODETECT|” John 17:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.9|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.18|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.17|AUTODETECT|” .) Though the first should never be excluded, the emphasis here is on the second. See N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.17|AUTODETECT|” John 7:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.25|AUTODETECT|” , for details on the inter-relation of the various elements of Christian experience. The apostle, being an indefatigable idealist, and in that sense perfectionist, wants to gain as full an understanding of Christ s person and love as possible. He is not satisfied with anything short of perfection. When he expresses his yearning to know Christ, he has in mind not only or even mainly the learning of certain facts about Christ but also and especially the sharing of certain experiences with him, as is clearly indicated by the rest of verse 10 and by verse 11. He wishes to become entirely wrapped up in Christ, so that Jesus will be all the world to him.��147�� One gains such experiential knowledge by wide-awake attendance at public worship and proper use of the sacraments 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.25|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 10:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.20|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.19|AUTODETECT|” 28:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.14-42.22.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.14-42.22.20|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:14 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.17-46.11.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.17-46.11.24|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 11:17 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.12-51.3.17|AUTODETECT|” ); by showing kindness to all, practising the forgiving spirit, above all love; by learning to be thankful; by studying the Word of Christ both devotionally and exegetically so that it dwells in the heart; by singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to the glory of God, and continuing steadfastly in prayer; and thus by redeeming the time as a witness of Christ to all men 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.12-51.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:12 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.2-51.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.2-51.4.6|AUTODETECT|” 4:2 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.25|AUTODETECT|” To show what this knowledge of Christ implies Paul continues: and the power of his resurrection. He longs for an ever-increasing supply of the power that proceeds from the risen and exalted Savior. That resurrected Savior, by dint of his very resurrection, assures Paul, through the Spirit, of justification 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 4:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.1|AUTODETECT|” 8:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.17|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ); for when the Father raised the Son he thereby proved that he had accepted the ransom paid by Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.18|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) as full satisfaction for Paul s sin.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.19|AUTODETECT|” It was that same resurrected Christ who sent his Spirit into Paul s heart for the purpose of sanctification. Christ s life in heaven is ever the cause of Paul s new life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.19|AUTODETECT|” John 14:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Paul desires a growing supply of this cleansing power, this dynamite that destroys sin and makes room for personal holiness and for effective witness-bearing!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Finally, this resurrected Christ also seals Paul s glorification and this with respect not only to the soul but also to the body, and not only for one person separately but for Paul together with all the saints. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.0|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.24|AUTODETECT|” Now when the life of the risen Christ has entered into the heart of the believer and makes itself more and more manifest in his entire conduct, the inevitable result will be a sharing in Christ s sufferings. Hence, the apostle continues, and (the) fellowship of his sufferings. Paul yearns to participate more and more fully in the reproaches and afflictions of his Lord and Savior. He wants to fill up whatever is lacking in the sufferings of Christ for his body, the Church 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.24|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.14|AUTODETECT|” ). Not as if Christ s atonement were incomplete 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.14|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 10:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ). But though the atonement left nothing to be desired, suffering for the sake of Christ and his cause 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.24-47.11.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.24-47.11.28|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:24 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.10|AUTODETECT|” 12:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.29|AUTODETECT|” ) continues. Such suffering is a privilege 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.29|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.15|AUTODETECT|” ). It implies beatings, stonings, hunger, thirst, cold, nakedness, etc., endured in the work or being a witness for Christ to all men 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.15|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.15|AUTODETECT|” 22:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.9-45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” ). It includes also the experience of the hatefulness and hurt of one s own sins, the sins that caused the Savior to suffer such indescribable agonies 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.9-45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:9 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4-45.6.11|AUTODETECT|” ). Hence, the desire to participate in the sufferings of Christ is part of the intense longing and striving for complete holiness, as is clear also from the words which follow immediately: becoming increasingly conformed to his death. This, as the apostle himself explains in a closely parallel passage 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4-45.6.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:4 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), means to become dead to sin. It implies death to selfishness; hence, eagerness to be a blessing to others, as was Christ in his death. Thus a person becomes conformed to Christ s death.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Union with Christ implies that all of Christ s redemptive experiences are duplicated unredemptively in the believer. The Christian, accordingly, suffered with Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.6|AUTODETECT|” ), was crucified with him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.6|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.8|AUTODETECT|” ), died with him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.8|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.11|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4|AUTODETECT|” ), was buried with him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ), made alive with him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.13|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ), raised with him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1|AUTODETECT|” 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ), made joint-heirs with him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ), is glorified with him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ), enthroned with him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.4|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ), and reigns with him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.12|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.4|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4-45.6.11|AUTODETECT|” 11. However, one should be careful to avoid the conclusion that these experiences are all literally reflected in the life and death of believers. Failure to note this important point has given rise to errors in exegesis both here and in connection with verse 11. Thus, when the apostle yearns to become increasingly conformed to Christ s death, this has been interpreted to mean that he longed for death by crucifixion or at least for death as a martyr. But why not allow the apostle himself to clarify the meaning? When with a believing heart the Christian appropriates the saving value of Christ s death, he dies to sin, for the guilt of his sin is removed, and its power over him is gradually reduced and at death completely annihilated by the work of the Holy Spirit. Rejecting sin and selfishness he throws himself into the work of being a means in God s hand to open men s eyes, that they may turn from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4-45.6.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:4 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.18|AUTODETECT|” Acts 26:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It is in that sense that the believer experiences fellowship with Christ s sufferings and becomes conformed to his death.��148��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Similarly, when it is stated that the believer was crucified with Christ or was buried with him or raised with him, these expressions cannot be taken literally to mean that Christ s followers suffered physical death by crucifixion, that their bodies were interred, or that they have already been physically raised. The immediate context and parallel passages must be permitted to explain the meaning. And this also holds with respect to the next statement, in which Paul expresses his intense longing thus: if only I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. What is meant by this out-resurrection out of the dead (thus literally)? In the light both of the preceding and following contexts, these words give expression to Paul s intense longing and striving to be raised completely above sin and selfishness, so that he can be a most effective agent for the salvation of men to the glory of God. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” 7:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.22-46.9.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.22-46.9.24|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:22 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.50-46.15.58|AUTODETECT|” . This is his aim even now. However, absolute, spiritual perfection for the entire person will not be fully attained until Christ s brilliant Return, when in both soul and body Paul will glorify God in Christ forevermore, and will delight in all the blessings of fellowship with him and with all the saints in the new heaven and earth. This will be the gracious reward, the prize, given to all who aim for perfection even now. Such is the apostle s teaching not only here but everywhere 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.50-46.15.58|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:50 58) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.11-52.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.11-52.3.13|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 3:11 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.23|AUTODETECT|” 5:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.12|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.13|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .��149��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.5|AUTODETECT|” When Paul, with reference to this out-resurrection out of the dead writes, If only I may attain, he is not expressing distrust in the power or love of God nor doubt as to his own salvation. Paul often rejoices in assurance of salvation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.5|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” 7:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.16|AUTODETECT|” 8:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.35-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.35-45.8.39|AUTODETECT|” 35 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.15-54.1.17|AUTODETECT|” . In this assurance he was strengthened as the years went by 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.15-54.1.17|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:15 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.12|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ). But he wrote it in the spirit of deep humility and commendable distrust in self. The words also imply earnest striving. They show us Paul, the Idealist, who applies to himself the rule that he imposes on others 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 12 2 8 0 0 It is in this same humble spirit that in verses 12 14 Paul enlarges on the theme, In Christ I press on to perfection. ) 3:12 16) D. In Christ I Press on to Perfection) Paul, the Runner) His) (1) Frame of Mind) (2) Exertion) (3) Goal) (4) Reward) 1. Frame of Mind) 12. Paul s intense yearning and striving for spiritual perfection is expressed now under the symbolism of the familiar foot-race.��150�� In order to grasp the apostle s meaning the underlying figure must be borne in mind at every point. Picture then the ancient Greek stadium with its course for foot-races and tiers of seats for the spectators. At Athens the length of the course was one-eighth of an old Roman mile; hence, about 607 feet in our measurement.

The one at Ephesus was somewhat longer. The purpose of the race was to reach the goal opposite the entrance, or to run up and back, and this once or even twice. Near the entrance the contestants, stripped for the race, have been assigned their places on a stone threshold. In fact, several of the old stadia show what is left of rows of stone blocks at either end of the track. These blocks contain grooves to give the sprinter s feet a firm hold for a quick take-off. Here the contestants stand, body bent forward, one hand lightly touching the threshold, awaiting the signal: the letting down of a cord that has been stretched in front of them.

At the signal they leap forward.) When the question is asked, Will this contestant succeed? the answer is, Much will depend on his frame of mind. If he tells himself, I m a sure winner, no matter what I do, he will probably undergo the experience of the hare, in the fable, The Hare and the Tortoise. While the tortoise was plodding steadily on, the hare took a nap, and on awakening discovered, too late, that his opponent had already reached the goal!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” The same holds in the spiritual race. Here, too, much depends on the frame of mind. Paul completely rejects the idea that even now the race is as good as won. Says he, Not that��151�� I have already gotten hold or have already been made perfect. Paul was a firm believer in the doctrine of election before the foundation of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=19.51.1-19.51.5|AUTODETECT|” ), and accordingly also, as has been pointed out, in the possibility of assurance of salvation. But not in election apart from human responsibility, in salvation apart from human effort, or in assurance without constant recourse to the promises. Even though he had already sacrificed everything in his service for the Lord, he is certain of one thing, namely, that he has not yet completely gotten hold of the spiritual and moral resurrection that lifts one out from among those who are dead in sin; in other words, he is sure that he has not yet been made perfect. In principle, yes! But in full measure, no! Far from it!

The struggle against sin, fear, and doubt is not yet over. The fact, moreover, that believers do not attain this perfection in the present life is the teaching of Scripture throughout 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.1-19.51.5|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 51:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.13|AUTODETECT|” ; 23:75; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.13|AUTODETECT|” Luke 18:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.14-45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.14-45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:14 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.3.2|AUTODETECT|” James 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.1.8|AUTODETECT|” I John 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.1-44.9.19|AUTODETECT|” ). Paul continues, placing the positive over against the negative, as he often does, but I am pressing on (to see) if I can also lay hold on that for which��152�� I was laid hold on by Christ Jesus. Paul is pursuing with the purpose of overtaking and laying hold on.��153�� Has he not been laid hold on by Christ Jesus? When Paul was on his way to Damascus had not the exalted Lord and Savior commissioned him to a definite task? See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.9.1-44.9.19|AUTODETECT|” Acts 9:1 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” , especially verse 15; also 22:15, 21; 26:15 18. Encouraged and enabled by this very fact, namely, that it was Christ Jesus who has laid a firm hold on him, so as to possess him completely, the apostle is now pressing on in hot pursuit of the objective assigned to him. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.13|AUTODETECT|” 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=53.2.13|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . He continues,) 1 12 2 8 0 0 13. Brothers, I do not count myself yet to have laid hold. This is no superfluous repetition of a confession of imperfection. On the contrary, something is added now. The very word that introduces the sentence namely, brothers, a word of endearment and also in this case of deep concern (see on 1:12) shows that the apostle is deeply moved. Far more clearly than before, he is now intimating that the church at Philippi is being vexed by people who imagine that they have laid hold on perfection.

These errorists probably based this claim on the fact that, as they saw it, they had not only accepted Jesus as their Savior but were also scrupulous in their adherence to Judaistic rites (see above, on verses 1 3). The apostle summarily rejects their claims by saying, as it were, Such has not been my experience. Legal rectitude, slavery to outworn ordinances, hindered me instead of helping me. Moreover, as a believer in Christ alone, I for one am still far removed from the goal of spiritual perfection. Whatever any one else may claim, I have not yet laid hold on it. ) This, however, does not mean that Paul is indolent or despairing. On the contrary, he refuses to acquiesce in sin.

As a runner in the race he stresses his exertion.) 2. Exertion) Paul writes, But one thing (I do). The runner in the race practises persistent concentration on one, and only one, objective, namely, to press on toward the goal for the prize. He permits nothing to divert him from his course. His aim is definite, well-defined.) So it is also with Paul. On reading his epistles one is amazed by this unity of purpose which characterizes the apostle s entire life after conversion.

Paul aimed at gaining Christ and perfection in him, a perfection not only of uninterruptible assurance but also of loving consecration: Teach me to love thee as thy angels love, one holy passion filling all my frame. ) Lord Jesus, I long to be perfectly whole;) I want thee forever to live in my soul,) Break down every idol, cast out every foe,) Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.) Whiter than snow, yes, whiter than snow;) Now wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. ) (J. Nicholson)) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Such concentration is absolutely necessary. In everyday life distractions are often disastrous. Excitement about an impending trip to Asia distracts a motorist. The result: a serious accident. Similarly, in the spiritual realm worldly cares, the false glamor of wealth, and all kinds of evil desires enter in to choke the word of the gospel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.86.11|AUTODETECT|” ). Over-emphasis on sports, clothes, physical charm, etc., prevents the runner from reaching the spiritual goal. Real, undivided concentration is a matter of ceaseless effort on man s part. It is at the same time the product of the operation of grace in the heart. It is the answer to the prayer, Unite my heart to fear thy name 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.86.11|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 86:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Such concentration presents its requirements. The first is mental obliteration of that part of the course which the runner has already covered. Paul says, forgetting what lies behind (me). The runner does not look back. He knows that if he does, he will lose his speed, his direction, and finally the race itself. Looking back while running ahead is always very dangerous.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.32|AUTODETECT|” So it is also spiritually. Here too looking back is forbidden. Remember Lot s wife 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.32|AUTODETECT|” Luke 17:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Now when Paul says that he forgets what lies behind, he refers to a type of forgetting which is no mere, passive oblivion. It is active obliteration, so that when any thought of merits, piled up in the past, would occur to Paul, he immediately banished it from his mind. This is not Nirvana. It is not the state resulting from drinking the waters of Lethe. It is a constant, deliberate discarding of any thought of past attainments.��154��) 1 2 2 8 0 0 The second indispensable requisite of effective concentration is unwavering progression. Hence, Paul continues, and eagerly straining forward to what lies ahead. The verb used in the original is very graphic. It pictures the runner straining every nerve and muscle as he keeps on running with all his might toward the goal, his hand stretched out as if to grasp it.) No less necessary is unwavering progression in the spiritual sphere. But if it be true that Paul on this side of the grave never reaches ethical-spiritual perfection the perfection of condition, that is, holy living, and of constant, never-interrupted, full assurance of his state , then why strive so eagerly for it? Is not the apostle foolish when he strives with such constancy and ardor to reach a goal which he knows he cannot fully attain in this life? The answer is twofold:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.28|AUTODETECT|” a. Although a person cannot actually reach this objective here and now, he can, indeed, make progress toward it. This matter of ethical-spiritual perfection is by no means an all-or-nothing proposition. As Paul himself teaches everywhere, there is such a thing as making progress in sanctification. The line of progress may indeed be zig-zag, but this does not rule out the possibility of real progress. In fact, such advancement, such gradual development when the seed of true religion has been implanted in the heart, must be considered normal 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.4.28|AUTODETECT|” Mark 4:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.17|AUTODETECT|” 4:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.12|AUTODETECT|” ; then ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.9-51.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.9-51.1.11|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:9 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.3|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.15|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.1|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” b. Such spiritual perfection in Christ, considered as God s gracious gift, is actually granted only to those who strive for it! The prize is given to those who press on toward the goal 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Concentration, obliteration, progression, accordingly, are the key-words of that spiritual exertion which results in perfection. It is by these means that one presses on toward the goal.) 3. Goal) 14. So Paul continues, I am pressing on toward the goal. By derivation, the word translated goal is that on which one fixes his eyes. Throughout the race the sight of that pillar at the end of the track encouraged the contestant to redouble his exertions. He was ever running goal-ward, that is, in accordance with��155�� the line from his eyes to the goal.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.8|AUTODETECT|” In the spiritual race that goal is Christ, that is, ethical-spiritual perfection in him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.15|AUTODETECT|” ). With all his heart the apostle desired to be completely raised above sin. He sought eagerly to promote the glory of God by every tool at his disposal, particularly by being a witness to all men 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.15|AUTODETECT|” Acts 22:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.16-44.26.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.26.16-44.26.18|AUTODETECT|” 26:16 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.22|AUTODETECT|” ), that he might by all means save some 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.22|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 4. Reward) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.24|AUTODETECT|” Never does the runner forget the prize 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.24|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Hence, Paul continues, for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. At the end of the race the successful runner was summoned from the floor of the stadium to the judge s seat to receive the prize. This prize was a wreath of leaves. At Athens after the time of Solon the Olympic victor also received the sum of 500 drachmai. Moreover, he was allowed to eat at public expense, and was given a front-row seat at the theater.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.11|AUTODETECT|” Probably some of these facts were in the background of Paul s thinking when he stated that he was pressing on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. However, underlying figure and spiritual meaning do not completely correspond here do they ever? , for though the prize in both cases is awarded at the end of the race, the upward call of which the apostle is here speaking was issued already at his conversion, hence not only at the end of the race. Here as elsewhere in Paul there is the effective gospel call. It is the heavenward call, the holy calling, a calling to holiness of life. Thus God is summoning Paul upward continually. See N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.11|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.9|AUTODETECT|” , p. 162, footnote 162 there; also N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.9|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.17|AUTODETECT|” . Nevertheless, the prize which corresponds to this call, and is given to those in whom this call has performed its work, is awarded when the race is over and has been won. Then Paul, too, together with all the saints, is called upward to meet the Lord in the air and to remain forever with him in the new heaven and earth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.17|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It is only in Christ Jesus that this upward call, this holy calling, is possible. Without him it could neither have been given nor obeyed. Apart from his atoning sacrifice the glorious prize to which the call leads the way could never be awarded.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Is there a real difference between goal and prize? In a sense they are the same. Both indicate Christ, perfection in him. Nevertheless, goal and prize represent different aspects of the same perfection; as follows,) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” a. When this perfection is called goal, it is viewed as the object of human striving. When it is called prize it is viewed as the gift of God s sovereign grace. God imparts everlasting life to those who accept Christ by living faith 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He imparts perfection to those who strive to attain it. Though it is true that this believing and this striving are from start to finish completely dependent on God s grace, nevertheless it is we who must embrace Christ and salvation in him. It is we who must strive to enter in. God does not do this believing and striving for us!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” b. The goal rivets the attention on the race that is being run or was run; the prize upon the glory that will begin in the new heaven and earth. Thus, bringing sinners to Christ, and doing this with perfect devotion, pertains to the goal. Perfect fellowship with these saved ones on and after the day of the great consummation pertains to the prize. Hence, it is correct to distinguish between goal and prize, as Paul also does both here and, by implication, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 With this glorious prize in mind namely, the blessings of everlasting life; such as perfect wisdom, joy, holiness, peace, fellowship, all enjoyed to the glory of God, in a marvelously restored universe, and in the company of Christ and of all the saints Paul is pressing on toward the goal.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.25|AUTODETECT|” 15, 16. Now, in the earthly race the prize is perishable; in the heavenly, imperishable 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.25|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.24|AUTODETECT|” ). In the former only one could win 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.24|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ); in the latter all who love Christ s appearing win 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). They win the prize by being minded as is Paul, and by conduct in harmony with this disposition. Hence, Paul continues, Accordingly, let us, as many as are mature, continue to set our mind on this. Do we, the Philippians along with ourselves, desire the prize? Then let us note tactful use of us here! set our mind on the objective as just described; that is, fully realizing that we are still far from the goal of ultimate moral-spiritual perfection, let us earnestly and continually endeavor to reach this goal. Are we not mature?��156�� Let us then leave behind any childish notions of reaching perfection by means of rigid law-observance, and let it be our disposition in Christ to seek ever higher ground:) 1 9 2 8 0 0 I m pressing on the upward way,) New heights I m gaining every day;) Still praying as I onward bound,) Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.) Lord, lift me up and let me stand,) By faith, on heaven s table-land,) A higher plane than I have found;) Lord, plant my feet on higher ground. ) (J. Oatman)) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.25.14|AUTODETECT|” But while this rule is excellent and necessary, its exact application to all phases of life is not always immediately clear. Hence, Paul continues, and if on some minor point you are differently minded, that, too, God will make plain to you. If the Philippians will adhere to the rule as laid down, then if with respect to this or that minor point of application their views should be defective, God, through his Spirit, will unveil to their hearts and minds the truth also regarding such a matter. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.25.14|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 25:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.7|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 7:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.26|AUTODETECT|” Luke 19:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.17|AUTODETECT|” John 7:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.13|AUTODETECT|” 16:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Emphasizing this same thought, the apostle continues, Only, let our conduct be consistent with the level we have attained. Or, more literally, Only, to what we have attained, with the same let us keep in line. The rule��157�� has been established. The principle namely, We are still far from perfect, but in Christ we should strive to become perfect has been enunciated and exemplified. Let our lives be regulated by the consistent application of this principle. It must never be surrendered.��158��) 1 10 2 8 0 0 True religion, then, is a matter not of precept upon precept but of basic principles. These are few but very important. If by the light of God s special revelation these principles are consistently applied, then all the rest will follow. God will not refuse to give further light to him who walks by the light already given.) ) 3:17 21) III. Warning against Sensualists. The Homeland in Heaven) 17 Brothers, join in being imitators of me, and watch closely those who are walking according to the example that we have set you. 18 For many are pursuing a walk of life, of whom I told you often and now tell you even weeping (that they are) the enemies of the cross of Christ; 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their mind on earthly things. 20 For our homeland is in heaven, from which we also are eagerly awaiting, as Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will refashion our lowly body so that it will have a form like his own glorious body, (and who will do this) by the exertion of that power which enables him to subject even all things to himself.) ) A new paragraph begins here.

Warnings continue, but now against a foe described in terms that differ from those used in verse 2 above. Not about dogs, evil workers, the concision does Paul speak now but about men whom he considers as the enemies of the cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, whose glory is in their shame, who set their mind on earthly things. It is well before entering upon a detailed exegesis to answer the question, Who are these dangerous errorists? ) In harmony with very many interpreters��159�� I am firmly convinced that they are sensualists, men who catered to the flesh, gluttonous, grossly immoral people, all this though they pretended to be Christians. Reasons for accepting this view:) (1) This would seem to be the most natural explanation of the term whose god is their belly. It is the interpretation that immediately occurs to the mind.��160�� Only the most compelling reason should be permitted to cause one to surrender it. No such reason has been given.) (2) This view is strengthened by some of the other descriptive phrases that occur here; especially, whose glory is in their shame, who set their mind on earthly things. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.8|AUTODETECT|” (3) This explanation is also in harmony with Pauline language elsewhere. In Romans the apostle warns against those who said, Let us do evil that good may come 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.1|AUTODETECT|” ), and Let us continue in sin that grace may abound 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.18|AUTODETECT|” ). It can hardly be doubted that these were the very individuals who in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.19|AUTODETECT|” are described as serving not our Lord Christ but their belly, language very similar to that found here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.2|AUTODETECT|” (4) The transition from a warning against legalists 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ) to one against libertines (verses 17 21) is, after all, rather natural. We find it also in Galatians 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 with 5:13). Sinful human nature is prone to jump from one extreme into another. Hardly has it become clear to a person that he should not be entangled again in the yoke of (Judaistic) bondage when he begins to use his new-found freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.19|AUTODETECT|” (5) In a parallel passage Peter warns against similar loose individuals, men who forget that the believers homeland is in heaven, and that, acccordingly, the followers of Jesus are sojourners and pilgrims here below 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.11|AUTODETECT|” with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.11|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Peter clearly implies that these seducers indulge in fleshly lusts which war against the soul. There is, therefore, every reason to interpret the passage in Philippians similarly.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Other views as to the identity of the errorists against whom Paul warns here are discussed in a footnote.��161��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.7-50.3.14|AUTODETECT|” 17. Deeply moved by what he is about to write, Paul addresses the Philippians with the endearing word Brothers (see on 1:12; cf. 1:14; 3:1, 13; 4:1, 8, 21). He continues, join in being imitators of me. Should not brothers show that they belong to the same spiritual family, and are, therefore, really brothers? Should not their attitude of heart, speech, and conduct remind one of the same model? Let me be that model, says Paul, as it were, and this in self-renunciation over against self-complacency; in humble, Christ-centered trust instead of arrogant self-esteem; in idealism versus indolence 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.7-50.3.14|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:7 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); and thus also in spirituality as contrasted with sensuality, that is, in heavenly-mindedness as opposed to worldly-mindedness (verses 18 21).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 But is selection of himself as an example consistent with Christian humility? Answer:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.5-50.2.8|AUTODETECT|” (1) Before pointing to himself as an example, the apostle had reminded the Philippians of Christ as the chief example 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.5-50.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:5 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.1|AUTODETECT|” ). Accordingly, they knew that what Paul meant was simply this, Be imitators of me, as I also am of Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.1|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 11:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 (2) The apostle was not placing himself on a pedestal, as if he were perfect, but, quite the contrary, was urging his friends to strive after perfection, in the full realization that they were still far removed from the ideal, as was he himself.) (3) Surrounded by immorality on the part both of pagans and of nominal Christians (see verses 18 and 19), these Philippians needed a concrete example of Christian devotion, a picture-lesson. The apostle had every right to point to himself as such an example.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.19-50.2.24|AUTODETECT|” (4) The justifiable character of his exhortation becomes even more clearly evident when it is seen in the light of what immediately follows, showing that when Paul urged the Philippians to imitate him, he was not thinking of himself alone but of himself in company with others, such as Timothy 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.19-50.2.24|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:19 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ) and Epaphroditus (2:25 30). Note the pronoun we instead of I in the continuation: and watch closely those who are walking according to the example that we have set you. Instead of fixing your attention upon individuals who have confused Christian liberty with license, focus it upon those who are safe guides of Christian conduct. Let them be your example 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.7|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.1|AUTODETECT|” 18, 19. The apostle supports his urgent appeal by continuing, deeply moved, For many are pursuing a walk of life, of whom I told you often and now tell you even weeping (that they are) the enemies of the cross of Christ. The wicked life of these persons who wished to be regarded as Christians belied the confession of their lips. They deceived themselves, exerted a most sinister influence upon those who listened to them, kept unbelievers from becoming truly converted, and dishonored God. They may have been traveling missionaries. They were numerous note the word many , from which, however, it does not follow that they constituted a considerable proportion of the membership of the Philippian church. If that had been the case, the apostle could not have praised this church in such glowing terms 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ). Nevertheless, they were a real menace. Paul, while present among the Philippians, had often warned against this class of deceivers. He considers them not just enemies but the (note the definite article here) enemies of the cross of Christ. If the friends of the cross are those who show in their lives that they have caught the spirit of the cross, namely, that of self-denial 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.23|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.3|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.5-50.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.5-50.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:5 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.14|AUTODETECT|” ), then surely the enemies of the cross are those who manifest the very opposite attitude, namely, that of self-indulgence. The friends of the cross do not love the world. In fact, the world is crucified to them, and they to the world, and this because they glory in the cross 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.14|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.24|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.24|AUTODETECT|” 5:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.15|AUTODETECT|” ). The enemies of the cross love the world and the things that are in the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.2.15|AUTODETECT|” I John 2:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.19|AUTODETECT|” ). They set their minds on earthly things 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.31|AUTODETECT|” Because of his great love for the Philippians the apostle actually weeps when he reflects on the fact that these enemies of the cross are trying to seduce the members of the first church established in Europe. He weeps as did Mary of Bethany because of her brother s death 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.31|AUTODETECT|” John 11:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.33|AUTODETECT|” 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.35|AUTODETECT|” ; see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.35|AUTODETECT|” John 11:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.11|AUTODETECT|” ), and as did Mary Magdalene on the morning of Christ s resurrection 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.11|AUTODETECT|” John 20:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). One of the secrets of Paul s success as a missionary was his genuine, personal interest in those whom the Lord had committed to his spiritual care. Because his love for them was so real and tender, his heart was stirred to its very depths when danger threatened them. Besides, the apostle was not only a man of penetrating insight and rugged determination but also of profound, surging emotion.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Paul s Deeply Emotional Nature) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.9|AUTODETECT|” Various phases of the apostle s intensely emotional personality are exhibited in the book of Acts and in the epistles. Here was a truly great soul! What he did he did with all his might, never in a merely detached manner. Having formerly persecuted the followers of Jesus, after his conversion Sorrow, hearty and profound, walked with him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.9|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.15|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ). That to such a bitter persecutor Christ had revealed himself as a loving Savior baffled him. He just could not get over it 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.16|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” ). It caused his heart to overflow with lasting, humble gratitude! For this and for other reasons his epistles are full of magnificent doxologies 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 9:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.36|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.36|AUTODETECT|” 11:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.27|AUTODETECT|” 16:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.20|AUTODETECT|” 3:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.20|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.17|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.15|AUTODETECT|” 6:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.4.18|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ) which are the spontaneous utterances of the man who wrote, For the love of Christ constrains us 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.14|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.22|AUTODETECT|” ). Having been laid hold on by Christ, the apostle in turn was eager to burn himself out for the salvation of others 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.22|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.10.33|AUTODETECT|” 10:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.15|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 12:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.1-45.9.3|AUTODETECT|” ). His heart ached intensely because so many of his own people (Israelites) were not saved 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.1-45.9.3|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 9:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.10.1|AUTODETECT|” 10:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.28|AUTODETECT|” ). Anxiety for all his churches pressed upon him daily 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.28|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.14-49.3.19|AUTODETECT|” ). How fervent and touching were his prayers for them 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.14-49.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:14 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.9-52.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.9-52.3.13|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 3:9 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ). How he loved them, so that he could write, We were gentle in the midst of you as a nurse cherishes her own children. So, being affectionately desirous of you, we gladly shared with you not only the gospel of God but also our own souls & For now we really live if you stand fast in the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.7|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.3.8|AUTODETECT|” 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.20|AUTODETECT|” ). How earnest were his pleadings 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.20|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.4.1|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.6-48.1.9|AUTODETECT|” ), and how tactful! Though for their own good he was able to rebuke the wayward very sharply 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.1.6-48.1.9|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 1:6 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.1-48.3.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.1-48.3.4|AUTODETECT|” 3:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.19|AUTODETECT|” ), even this was a manifestation of the love of his great, throbbing heart. Is it any wonder that, when occasion demanded it, out of the eyes of a man with such an ebullient spirit and loving heart there welled forth fountains of tears 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.19|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.31|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.31|AUTODETECT|” 31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.18|AUTODETECT|” ), so that not only here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.4|AUTODETECT|” but also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.4|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.13|AUTODETECT|” these are mentioned? And is it at all surprising that, on the other hand, on one occasion the tears of his friends, because of his imminent departure and the afflictions in store for him, well-nigh broke his heart 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.13|AUTODETECT|” Acts 21:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )? Truly Paul s weeping when he writes about the enemies of the cross of Christ is as glorious as is the joy, joy, joy that sings its way through this marvelous epistle!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.15|AUTODETECT|” Speaking about these enemies of the cross of Christ Paul continues, whose end is destruction. This is their appointed destiny, for God has ordained that their end shall be according to their works 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.15|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.21|AUTODETECT|” ). This end is the fruit of their wicked lives 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.21|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.23|AUTODETECT|” ). It is the wages earned by their sin 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.23|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 6:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.46|AUTODETECT|” ). Destruction, however, is by no means the same as annihilation. It does not mean that they will cease to exist. On the contrary, it means everlasting punishment 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.25.46|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 25:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.9|AUTODETECT|” ), for this destruction is an everlasting destruction 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.9|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.18|AUTODETECT|” ).��162�� This destruction begins even in the present life, but is climaxed after death. Paul continues, whose god is their belly 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.16.18|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 16:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.13|AUTODETECT|” ). Instead of striving to keep their physical appetites under control 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.13|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.9.27|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 9:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.19|AUTODETECT|” ), realizing that our bodies are the Holy Spirit s temple, in which God should be glorified 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.19|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 6:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ), these people surrendered themselves to gluttony and licentiousness. They worshipped their sensual nature. In this they were prompted, no doubt, by causes such as the following: immoral background 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.18|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.3|AUTODETECT|” ), wicked pagan surroundings, licentious incipient gnosticism 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.4.3|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 4:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ), perversion of the doctrine of grace 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.6.1|AUTODETECT|” 6:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ), and, last but not least, evil lusts within the heart 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.1.14|AUTODETECT|” James 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.5|AUTODETECT|” ). The apostle further characterizes them as those whose glory is in their shame: Their pride was in that of which they should have been ashamed. Not only did they carry out their wicked designs, but they even boasted about them. They were the persons who set their minds on earthly things. Being carnal, after the flesh, they pondered the things of the flesh 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.5|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.7|AUTODETECT|” ). Now the mind of the flesh is enmity against God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.7|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ), and these people were the enemies of the cross of Christ. In a parallel passage the apostle shows us what these earthly things were on which these people set their minds, namely, immorality, indecency, lust, evil desire, greed, evil temper, furious rage, malice, cursing, filthy talk 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|” 20, 21. Such conduct would certainly be ill-fitting for the citizens of the kingdom of heaven, Paul implies, as he continues, For��163�� our��164�� homeland is in heaven. Do citizens of Philippi think of Rome as their native land to which they belong, in whose tribal records they are enrolled, whose dress they wear, whose language they speak, by whose laws they are governed, whose protection they enjoy, and whose emperor they worship as their Savior? In a sense far more sublime and real these Christians dwelling in Philippi must realize that their homeland or commonwealth��165�� has its fixed location in heaven. It was heaven that gave them birth, for they are born from above. Their names are inscribed on heaven s register.

Their lives are being governed from heaven and in accordance with heavenly standards. Their rights are secured in heaven. Their interests are being promoted there. To heaven their thoughts and prayers ascend and their hopes aspire. Many of their friends, members of the fellowship, are there even now, and they themselves, the citizens of the heavenly kingdom who are still on earth, will follow shortly. Yes, in heaven their inheritance awaits them.

Their heavenly mansions are being prepared. See such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|” John 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.1-43.14.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.1-43.14.4|AUTODETECT|” 14:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.17|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.6|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1-51.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.1-51.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.14-58.4.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.14-58.4.16|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 4:14 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.19|AUTODETECT|” 6:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.6.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.7.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.7.25|AUTODETECT|” 7:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.22-58.12.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.22-58.12.24|AUTODETECT|” 12:22 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.9-66.7.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.9-66.7.17|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 7:9 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.26|AUTODETECT|” . Yes, Jerusalem that is above is their mother 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.26|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ). They are fellow-citizens with the saints and of the household of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.19|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.13|AUTODETECT|” ). On this earth they are strangers, sojourners, and pilgrims 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.13|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.11|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.16|AUTODETECT|” ). They desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.16|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Above all, in heaven dwells their Head, and they are the Body; so infinitely close is their relation to heaven! And this Head is, indeed, Savior. In fact, he is the only, the real Savior, who is coming again to deliver them from all their enemies and to draw them as closely as possible to his own bosom. Hence, Paul continues, from which��166�� we also are eagerly awaiting as Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.3|AUTODETECT|” The hope of Christ s Return has sanctifying power: every one who has this hope set on him purifies himself even as he is pure 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.3|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). If a person makes a god of his belly and sets his mind on earthly things, how can he ever expect to be welcomed by the spotlessly holy and infinitely glorious Christ at his brilliant advent? This surely is the reason at least one of the chief reasons why the coming of Christ is here mentioned.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.14-66.3.22|AUTODETECT|” Believers are eagerly awaiting��167�� their Lord. Theirs is not the attitude of the men of Laodicea, that of lukewarmness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.14-66.3.22|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 3:14 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.1|AUTODETECT|” ); nor the attitude of some people in Thessalonica, that of nervousness 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.1|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.8-66.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ); but rather the attitude of the Smyrniots, that of faithfulness. The latter, while looking forward to the crown of life, remained faithful unto death 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.8-66.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:8 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ). The citizens of the kingdom of heaven, looking away from all sinful pleasures, eagerly yearn to welcome their Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. They await his manifestation in glory 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.7|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.4|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.5|AUTODETECT|” ). It is a waiting in faith 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.5|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.25|AUTODETECT|” ), with patient endurance 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.25|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.28|AUTODETECT|” ), and unto salvation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.28|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 9:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.21|AUTODETECT|” ). In a sense, the entire creation is eagerly looking forward for this great event, when from its present corruption and futility it shall be delivered, being transferred into the sphere of the glorious liberty of the children of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.21|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.10|AUTODETECT|” Note that believers are yearning for the Lord Jesus Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.10|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.23|AUTODETECT|” ) in his capacity as Savior. Even as Judge he will still be their Savior. The word Savior is also applied to Christ in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.23|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.1.10|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 1:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Titus 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.13|AUTODETECT|” 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.6|AUTODETECT|” 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.13|AUTODETECT|” . In fact, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.13|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 Jesus is called our great God and Savior. Not this or that heathen deity nor the Roman emperor but the Lord Jesus Christ is the real Savior whom believers are eagerly expecting. As their Savior he will deliver them from the final results of sin, will completely vindicate them and their cause, and will bestow upon them the glorious inheritance of the saints in the light, in a marvelously rejuvenated universe.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Though the glories of the intermediate state, that is, the happiness that will be the believer s portion during the interval between death and bodily resurrection, are not absent from the mind of the apostle 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), nevertheless, he does not fall into the error into which we are so prone to become ensnared, namely, that of emphasizing the intermediate state at the expense of the Lord s advent! Will not the latter glory in which all the saints of all the ages will take part, and in which Christ will be vindicated before all the world be even greater than the former?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.19|AUTODETECT|” Paul continues, who will refashion our lowly body so that it will have a form like his own glorious body. By many Greek pagans the body was viewed as a prison from which at death the soul will be delivered. The body was intrinsically vile. To Paul, however, that body was a temple, even the sanctuary of the Holy Spirit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.19|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 6:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ). To be sure, right now, as a result of the entrance of sin, it is the body of our humiliation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” , he humbled himself ). As such it is exposed to sin s curse in the form of weakness, suffering, sickness, ugliness, futility, death, but at his coming the Savior who is a complete Savior will refashion it in such a manner that this new outward fashion or appearance will truly reflect the new and lasting inner form,��168�� for it will have a form like the glorious body of the ascended Lord. We shall be conformed to the image of his (the Father s) Son 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.49|AUTODETECT|” ). We shall bear the image of the heavenly 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.49|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:49) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ). When he will be manifested, we shall be like him, for we shall see him even as he Isaiah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.3.2|AUTODETECT|” I John 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.42-46.15.44|AUTODETECT|” ). The nature of this great change is detailed in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.42-46.15.44|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:42 44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.50-46.15.58|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.50-46.15.58|AUTODETECT|” 50 58) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.8.6|AUTODETECT|” The question occurs, however, But how will this be possible? What about those martyrs who were devoured by lions? What about those who were burned alive? Yes, what about millions of others, particles of whose dead and decaying bodies, through various stages of disintegration, finally enter into other living bodies? An answer that would be completely satisfying to the mind of man the mind darkened by sin! is not available. One outstanding fact remains, however.

That fact is the almighty power of One who could not be held even by death. Hence, the apostle concludes this exalted paragraph by saying (and who will do this) by the exertion or exercise of that power which enables him to subject even all things to himself. Marvelous is the energy of Christ s dynamite, that is, of his power. This energy is his power in action, the exercise of his power. Surely, if that energy enables him to do the greater, how would it not enable him to do the lesser? If he can subject even all things, the totality of all the powers of the universe, unto himself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.8.6|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 8:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.27|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.5-58.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.2.5-58.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 2:5 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), will he not be able to refashion our lowly body so that it will have a form like his own glorious body?) 1 9 2 8 0 0 Thus, Paul, the Indefatigable Idealist, ends this great chapter. He has reached the highest rung of the ladder. From conversion, with its repudiation of all human merits (verse 7), justification and sanctification, with the goal of perfection always in view (the main parts of verses 8 19), he has reached the great Consummation, when soul and body, the entire person, together with all the saints, will glorify God in Christ in the new heaven and earth, forever and forever. All this, through God s sovereign grace and power, and to his everlasting glory!) Synthesis of Chapter 3) For this see the Summary at the beginning of the chapter.) Seed-thoughts of Chapter 3) (1) Christian joy can be cultivated (verse 1).) (2) Even Paul repeated himself, when necessary (verse 1).) (3) Meekness does not mean weakness. The maxim See no evil is in need of explanation and perhaps qualification (verse 2).) (4) No demerit is so great and harmful as self-merit (verse 3).) (5) The Christian has not truly arrived until he arrives in glory: If only I may attain is the language of the truly saved man. The believer is the enemy of the status quo (verses 4 14).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.27.1|AUTODETECT|” (6) Though justification is a once-for-all affair, the believer desires an ever richer assurance of having obtained this great blessing. Absolute perfection also in this respect is not reached in the here and now. He who spoke the words of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.27.1|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 27:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.27.1|AUTODETECT|” also spoke those of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.27.1|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 27:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.18.36|AUTODETECT|” . He who praised God by those of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.18.36|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 18:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.18.37|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.18.37|AUTODETECT|” 37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.19.4|AUTODETECT|” , also uttered the lamentation found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.19.4|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 19:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.19.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.19.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . And then there is the need of sanctification in all other respects (verses 8b 14).) 1 8 2 8 0 0 (7) Every Christian is a true perfectionist or idealist (verses 8b 14).) (8) We love him because he first loved us. We take hold on him because he first took hold of us (verse 12).) (9) Divine preservation implies human perseverance (verses 12 14).) (10) Not only mulling over past failures but also gloating over past successes is an enemy of spiritual progress (verse 13).) (11) Those who major on minors, forgetting the real goal of the Christian life, are immature (verse 15).) (12) Be consistent (verse 16).) (13) The sensualist is not a Christian (verses 17 19).) (14) Not the intermediate state but the state of final glory in the new heaven and earth, together with all the saints, at Christ s Return, should be most strongly emphasized in preaching and in meditation (verses 20, 21).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.8|AUTODETECT|” 124 The words for the rest or finally are very appropriate when a letter is gradually drawing to a close 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.11|AUTODETECT|” ; also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.11|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 13:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.1|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ). It is not true, however, that this expression proves that Paul was about to end the letter at this very point, for (�x) �� may also simply introduce a new paragraph in which the apostle proceeds to a subject different from the one he has just now been discussing, a subject which he regards as very important and which he now wishes to stress. Besides, if for the rest when there are still forty-four more verses in Philippians disproves the unity of Philippians, would not the same expression followed by forty-six more verses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) disprove the unity of I Thessalonians?) 1 3 2 8 0 0 125) Other explanations of to write the same things to you are:) (1) F. W. Beare and others see here an abrupt break in the course of the letter, a complete lack of connection between this chapter and the remainder of the letter. Answer: the unity of the letter has already been defended. See Introduction, VI.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.18|AUTODETECT|” (2) John Calvin represents those who think that the apostle means, To repeat the same things to you which, while present, I told you. Answer: in view of such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.2.5|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 2:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , a reference to previous oral teaching may indeed be included in the meaning. Written admonitions, and these in this very letter, urging believers to take a courageous, united stand against the adversaries, are clear, as has been shown.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 (3) H. Alford, etc., regard the expression as referring to the immediately preceding exhortation to rejoice in the Lord. Answer: the words, for you it is safe are an indication of danger, which hardly suits the exhortation to rejoice.) (4) J. B. Lightfoot implies that the expression to write the same things is an allusion to admonitions against dissension. He points out that several of these warnings are found in this very letter. Answer: see under the next point (5).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.27-50.1.30|AUTODETECT|” (5) R. C. H. Lenski regards 3:1b to refer to the warning found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.27-50.1.30|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:27 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 to stand firm against opponents. Answer: On the whole I agree with Lightfoot and Lenski, and have combined the two views. Paul, as I see it, refers to his previous exhortations that believers take a united stand against the adversaries. I believe, however, that Lenski has somewhat weakened his case by writing that here in Chapter 3 the apostle has in mind another set of opponents than before. As he sees it, 1:28 refers exclusively to pagan opponents; 3:1b, 2, to the Judaizers. But in that case would Paul have said, To write the same things to you?) 1 1 2 8 0 0 N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.11|AUTODETECT|” 126 He is fond of this kind of pun; cf., for example, not busy workers but busy-bodies 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.11|AUTODETECT|” II Thessalonians 3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). This style-characteristic is found in many languages. Often the real punch of such paronomasia (the use of words similar in sound but different in meaning) is lost in translation. But from the Latin compare the charge of pope against antipope, that the latter was not consecrated but execrated (accursed), and from the German note Luther s letter addressed to the pope, calling him, Your hellishness instead of Your holiness. ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 127 The textual evidence for this reading is stronger than that on which are based the renderings which worship God in the spirit (A.V.) and who worship God in spirit (R.S.V.).) 128 See R. C. Trench, Synonyms of the New Testament xxxv.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.22|AUTODETECT|” 129 For the various meanings of the term flesh as used by Paul see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.22|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.3|AUTODETECT|” , footnote 55. Here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.3|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 meaning g. applies.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.15|AUTODETECT|” 130 ��, acc. -�, not used here in the sense of subjective confidence 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.15|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.12|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ) but as the context clearly shows, ground of confidence. Similarly, in the next line, ��, second perfect active infinitive from ��, means (imagines) to have reason for confidence. Compare the use of �� and �� in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.19|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The use of words like confidence, hope, joy, for the ground of the feeling is found in many languages.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.39|AUTODETECT|” 131 Cf. for the Greek idiom for he is a fourth-day-er , that is, for he (Lazarus) has been dead four days 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.39|AUTODETECT|” John 11:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In such cases the ordinal is used with persons.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.17.25|AUTODETECT|” 132 Ishmael and the Ishmaelites at the age of thirteen 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.17.25|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 17:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 133 For a discussion of the apostle s names see N.T.C. on I and II Thessalonians, pp. 38, 39.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.1.23|AUTODETECT|” 134 David, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.1.23|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 1:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , is being very magnanimous.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 135 Not all of those who returned belonged to Judah and Benjamin, but these two tribes formed the nucleus. See my Bible Survey, pp. 119, 120.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.22|AUTODETECT|” 136 Paul himself uses the terms Hebrews, Israelites, and seed of Abraham synonymously 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.22|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.14.13|AUTODETECT|” ). The Old Testament uses the term Hebrew in a broader and in a more restricted sense. Long before Israel (Jacob) was born, there were Hebrews; e.g., Abraham 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.14.13|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 14:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.40.15|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.40.15|AUTODETECT|” 40:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.43.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.43.32|AUTODETECT|” 43:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.10.21|AUTODETECT|” ). According to some, Abraham was a Hebrew because he was a descendant of Eber 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.10.21|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 10:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.10.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.10.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.10.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.10.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.24.2|AUTODETECT|” ). Others are of the opinion that the noun Hebrew is related to a verb meaning to cross over. On that theory the Hebrews are the people from across the Euphrates 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.24.2|AUTODETECT|” Josh. 24:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.1.15|AUTODETECT|” ). In a more restricted sense the Hebrews are the descendants of Israel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.1.15|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.2.6|AUTODETECT|” 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.2.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.2.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.2.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.2.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.3.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.3.18|AUTODETECT|” 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.21.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.21.2|AUTODETECT|” 21:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.15.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.15.12|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 15:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.4.6|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.4.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.4.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.1|AUTODETECT|” 137 Many are of the opinion that the phrase a Hebrew of Hebrews also calls attention to the fact that the apostle was a Jew not only by race but also by language and customs. They think that the distinction 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.6.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts. 6:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.40|AUTODETECT|” ) between Hellenists (Greek-speaking Jews) and Hebrews (Aramaic-speaking Jews) applies here. Paul, then, is not a Hellenist but a Hebrew as were his parents. He spoke Aramaic fluently 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.40|AUTODETECT|” Acts 21:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.2|AUTODETECT|” 22:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.3|AUTODETECT|” ), was trained by a Hebrew teacher in Jerusalem 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.3|AUTODETECT|” Acts 22:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), often quotes from the Hebrew Old Testament, etc. The possibility that the apostle had this additional idea in mind when he called himself a Hebrew of the Hebrews must be granted. Yet, with the early Greek commentators I believe that the explanation I have given is probably all that is required in the present context. See also H. A. A. Kennedy, The Epistle to the Philippians, in The Expositor s Greek Testament, vol. III, p. 451.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 138 Or, according to another reading, of a Pharisee.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.3|AUTODETECT|” 139 Compare I have counted (perfect tense) here with he did not count (aorist) in 2:6. The verb indicates arriving at a sure judgment based on careful weighing of facts. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.3|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.8|AUTODETECT|” . The similarity between 3:7 and 2:6 is striking. Christ did not count his existence-in-a-manner-equal-to-God something to cling to, but emptied himself. This counting and this emptying is reflected in Paul, who, by having counted things that were gain to him to be loss for Christ, emptied himself of all things 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) that he might gain Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.31|AUTODETECT|” 140 The sentence begins with the piling up of particles: ��p �� v. As in every language, when the heart is deeply stirred and when thoughts crowd the mind, the utterance becomes compressed, and words are left out. See N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.31|AUTODETECT|” John 5:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 with respect to Abbreviated Style. A word for word, literal, rendering, so that the English sentence would start as follows, But, indeed, therefore, at least, even, would make little sense. By inserting a word here and there, an attempt could be made to get into our sentence everything that is in the original; somewhat as follows, But, indeed (that is not all), therefore (I affirm) at least even (this, that) I do count all things to be loss because of the all-surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Not only would this be rather clumsy but perhaps even unwarranted: it is a question whether, for example �� is translatable at all. It could be equivalent (in English) to a tone of voice rather than an actual word. The manner in which I have rendered the sentence is, accordingly, not literal but, I trust, natural.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.3|AUTODETECT|” 141 �x Q��, the neuter of the present participle of Q�� 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.3|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.7|AUTODETECT|” 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.13.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.2.13|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ). For other substantivized neuters in Paul see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.3|AUTODETECT|” 8:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.22|AUTODETECT|” 9:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.25|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.7|AUTODETECT|” . The word super-ness, that is, all-surpassing greatness is one of a list of super-combinations used by the apostle. See N.T.C. on the Pastoral Epistles, p. 75. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.7|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 we have another.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 142 Literally, of the knowledge of Christ Jesus, etc. As is clear from verse 10, that I may know him, the apostle is thinking of Christ Jesus not as the subject but as the object; hence, to avoid ambiguity, the translation knowing Christ Jesus commends itself.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.15|AUTODETECT|” 143 �p �� in the summarizing sense, as in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.15|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; hence, all these things. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.8|AUTODETECT|” 144 This, in fact, may be the very derivation of the word ��, pl. �. By some it is said to be derived from �x �� v �� (what is thrown to the dogs). Others, however, connect it with ��, dung. Though M.M. gives the preference to the meaning dung here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , which may be correct, the connotation refuse is well attested. Cf. Ecclesiasticus 27:4, When a sieve is shaken the refuse remains ; Josephus, Jewish War V. 571, they ate the refuse therefrom; and Philo, The Sacrifice of Abel and Cain 109, The chaff and husk and other refuse are scattered. ) 1 3 2 8 0 0 145 The simplest and most natural construction here would seem to be that which makes �� v �Q�� dependent on the nearest preceding verb, the second !�� of verse 8, present middle indicative. The words �� Q�� then state the purpose or motive of this continued act of counting all these things to be mere refuse, that purpose or motive being that I may gain Christ and be found in Him. Now gaining Christ is indeed a life-long activity. More and more fully does Christ become united with the believer, and the believer with Christ. The fact that the aorist subjunctive is used to indicate this purpose or motive does not in any way cancel the duration of the process. The aorist simply states the fact, without indicating the time-element, whether long or short.

It is simply the flashlight picture. Also, since the aorist is properly indefinite as to time, and the subjunctive is future in relation to the speaker, the interpretation which, along with many others, I give of this passage does not contradict grammar. See Gram.N.T., pp. 848, 849, 1380. Hence, I cannot accept Lenski s reasoning on p. 846 ff. of his Commentary.) 146 The articular second aorist infinitive �� may, therefore, be called an explanatory infinitive, or also an infinitive of contemplated result or purpose. It sets forth what is the result and purpose of embracing the righteousness of Christ, by a living faith, what is implied in this act. My interpretation here differs but slightly from that which would connect the infinitive with the entire thought of verses 8b and 9.

Least satisfactory, as I see it, is the explanation of those who leapfrog the second !�� of verse 8, and, ignoring what lies in between, connect �� with ��, so that the thought would be I suffered the loss of all things & that I might get to know Christ. My objection is this: Paul clearly is here no longer speaking about his experience on the way to Damascus but of his present yearning to get to know Christ better and better right along, in order to reach spiritual perfection in him, as is clear not only from the immediately preceding context but also from verses 11 14.) 147) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.10|AUTODETECT|”
The word used in the original for that I may know is a form of ��. See N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.10|AUTODETECT|”
John 1:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.11|AUTODETECT|”
, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.11|AUTODETECT|”
11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.31|AUTODETECT|”
, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.1.31|AUTODETECT|”
31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.3.11|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.3.11|AUTODETECT|”
3:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.8.28|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.8.28|AUTODETECT|”
8:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.8.55|AUTODETECT|”
, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.8.55|AUTODETECT|”
55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.16.30|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.16.30|AUTODETECT|”
16:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.21.17|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.21.17|AUTODETECT|”
21:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
, for distinction between �� and �6��.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=20.1.7|AUTODETECT|”
Besides, the concept knowledge as referred to by Paul in verses 8 and 10 was probably also influenced by the use of the related word in the Old Testament where to know Jehovah means to revere him, to be consecrated to him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=20.1.7|AUTODETECT|”
Prov. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.11.2|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.11.2|AUTODETECT|”
Isa. 11:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=35.2.14|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=35.2.14|AUTODETECT|”
Hab. 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
). It is a distinctly personal, intimate, practical, religious knowledge that Paul has in mind.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.1.12-50.1.14|AUTODETECT|”
148 Entering into the fellowship of Christ s suffering and becoming conformed to his death by dying unto sin and selfishness and thus becoming, like Christ in his death, a blessing to others, is beautifully illustrated by M. C. Tenney in his book Philippians, The Gospel At Work, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1956, pp. 77, 78. Not for a moment does the apostle forget his great missionary task, his exalted calling, as is evident not only from verses 12 14 of the present chapter, but also from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.1.12-50.1.14|AUTODETECT|”
Phil. 1:12 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.1.18|AUTODETECT|”
, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.1.18|AUTODETECT|”
18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.2.15|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.2.15|AUTODETECT|”
2:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.2.16|AUTODETECT|”
, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.2.16|AUTODETECT|”
16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
.) 1 1 2 8 0 0
149 Because of its length this footnote has been placed at the end of the chapter, page 185.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.4.7|AUTODETECT|”
150 See N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.4.7|AUTODETECT|”
I Tim. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.4.8|AUTODETECT|”
, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.4.8|AUTODETECT|”
8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.4.7|AUTODETECT|”
II Tim. 4:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|”
, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=55.4.8|AUTODETECT|”
8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.9.24|AUTODETECT|”
. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.9.24|AUTODETECT|”
I Cor. 9:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.2.16|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.2.16|AUTODETECT|”
Phil. 2:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.12.1|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.12.1|AUTODETECT|”
Heb. 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.13.25|AUTODETECT|”
. Other references that come in for consideration in this connection are: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.13.25|AUTODETECT|”
Acts 13:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.20.24|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.20.24|AUTODETECT|”
20:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.9.16|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.9.16|AUTODETECT|”
Rom. 9:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.2.2|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.2.2|AUTODETECT|”
Gal. 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.5.7|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.5.7|AUTODETECT|”
5:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=53.3.1|AUTODETECT|”
; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=53.3.1|AUTODETECT|”
II Thess. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.4.11|AUTODETECT|”
151 Rejecting a possible misunderstanding; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.4.11|AUTODETECT|”
Phil. 4:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.4.17|AUTODETECT|”
, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.4.17|AUTODETECT|”
17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.3.5|AUTODETECT|”: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.5|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.7.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.7.9|AUTODETECT|” 7:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.9|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.25|AUTODETECT|” 152 �� either on that for which 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.5.25|AUTODETECT|” Luke 5:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) or for this reason that . The difference is minor. In either case the apostle is saying that had not Christ Jesus laid hold on him, he would never be able to lay hold on Christ Jesus, that is, on perfection in him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.11|AUTODETECT|” 153 For the idea of pressing on or pursuing, keeping up the chase, eagerly seeking or running after see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.11|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.22|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.1|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.1|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 14:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.15.9|AUTODETECT|” . For the combination pursue overtake (or firmly lay hold on, capture) see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.15.9|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 15:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.30|AUTODETECT|” (LXX); ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.30|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 9:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.5|AUTODETECT|” . Interesting in the present connection (pursuing one definite object and not permitting oneself to be sidetracked or distracted) is Ecclesiasticus 11:10, My son, do not busy yourself with many matters. If you pursue, you will not overtake. Cf. also Herodotus IX. 58, They (the enemies) must be pursued until they are overtaken. On the verb see also N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.5|AUTODETECT|” John 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 154 ��, present participle, durative. Just what is Paul forgetting or discarding: his pre-Christian experiences or his previous progress as a Christian? If a choice must be made, the context (see especially verses 7 and 8) would seem to favor the former; logic, consistent application of the figure of the Christian race, the latter. But is it necessary to make a choice? Is it not possible that Paul is simply stating that, in his race for perfection, he refuses to become absorbed in past attainments of whatever kind; in other words, that in order to win the race one should, with eyes fixed on the goal, advance steadily toward it?) 155 Note ��p ��x� ��.) 156) Of all the explanations offered to explain ��, pl. ��, as here used, the one which regards it as meaning mature, full-grown, here with respect to knowledge of the way of salvation, would seem to be the best. The frequency with which the apostle uses the term in that sense is striking. Probable meanings as used by Paul:) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0; perfect (will of God) ) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.2.6|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.1|AUTODETECT|”; the mature, the full-grown, as contrasted with babes 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.3.1|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) ) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.10|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 13:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.13.9|AUTODETECT|”; the total, wholeness, as contrasted with that which is in part 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.13.9|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 13:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) ) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.20|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 14:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0; mature, grown up, of full age: in malice babes, in mind grown-up ) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.4.13|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0; full-grown man, mature manhood ) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=51.1.28|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0; perfect or mature ) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=51.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0; mature, ripe, complete ) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.5.14|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.5.14|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 5:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Solid food is for full-grown men. )) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Meanings a. full-grown and b. spiritually perfect (without any defect and filled with positive goodness) sometimes coincide: the full-grown man is the one who has reached the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. Cf. also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The question whether the use of �� here in verse 15 in connection with the same word implied in the verbal form used in verse 12 presents a play on words cannot be answered definitely. Lenski denies it. Many others are of the opposite opinion to which I also lean. If a play on words rather frequent in Paul is intended, then the full meaning is probably as follows: Judaizers may regard themselves as being �� (perfect), but it is we who are the real �� (mature individuals), for the �� are exactly the ones who in full awareness of their own imperfection reach for the goal.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.16|AUTODETECT|” 157 The better text does not have by that same rule. Nevertheless, that is the idea; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.16|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.15|AUTODETECT|” 158 Note use of present active infinitive �� with imperative connotation, here as also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.15|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 159 Alford, Barclay, Barnes, Braune , Beare, Ellicott, Erdman, Johnstone, Kennedy , Laurin, Lightfoot, Meyer, Michael , Rainy , The Amplified New Testament.) 160 Similar language is used by Eupolis, 5th century b.c. Athenian comic poet; by Athenaeus who wrote Banquet of the Learned; by Euripedes (Cyclops 335); and by Xenophon (Mem. I.vi.8: note how he uses slavery to the belly in close connection with incontinence ).) 161) Such views are as follows:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.17-50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” (1) The people against whom Paul issues his warning here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.17-50.3.21|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:17 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 are the heathen (B. Weiss, A. Rilliet).) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Objection: Would Paul have written, of whom I told you often and now tell you even in tears ; in other words, would he have been so deeply disturbed if he had heard a report that heathen were guilty of the sin here described? The apostle certainly knew that! Is it not far more likely that immorality practised by those who professed to be Christians caused him to weep so profusely?) (2) The persons against whom the warning is issued may have been either Judaistic legalists or Epicurean libertines (Martin, Robertson, Vincent).) Objection: I admire caution in exegesis. However, in the present instance I believe we can be certain, as I have tried to prove.) (3) The Judaizers are meant, just as in verse 2 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.9|AUTODETECT|” Objection: When it is said that the Judaizers made the belly their god by demanding only kosher food, and that their glory was in their shame because they gloried in their circumcized flesh, that is, in their private parts, proof should have been given to show that such interpretations are in line with New Testament usage. The proposition that strictness in the observance of dietary regulations would be tantamount to making a god of one s belly, so that, for example, Paul himself before his conversion was guilty of this sin, is in need of proof. And as to the word �0�� (shame), nowhere else in the New Testament does this word as such refer concretely and specifically to a person s private parts 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.14.9|AUTODETECT|” Luke 14:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.2|AUTODETECT|” disgrace; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.2|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.2|AUTODETECT|” , associated with craftiness; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.13|AUTODETECT|” , disgrace, ignominy; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.13|AUTODETECT|” Jude 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.18|AUTODETECT|” , shameful deeds cast up like seafoam; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , shameful nakedness).) 1 8 2 8 0 0 But does not the description the enemies of the cross of Christ fit the Judaizers? It certainly does, but it is an equally correct characterization of the sensualists!) Surely, far stronger arguments will have to be submitted before the majority of commentators can become convinced that when Paul warned against men whose god was their belly he was referring to Judaizers with their rigorous food laws!) 162 See W. Hendriksen, The Bible on the Life Hereafter, pp. 195 199.) 163 The idea for which the conjunction �p� states the reason must often be inferred from the context. So also in this instance. See L.N.T. (A. and G.) entry ��, under 1, e., p. 151.) 164 Note position of !�� at the very beginning of the sentence.) 165 On the term ��, Gemeinwesen or Heimat (commonwealth or homeland), see Hermann Strathmann s article in Th.W.N.T., Vol. 6, p. 535.) 166 The flexible character of Greek grammar certainly makes it possible for � �W to refer adverbially to �P��, plural. The latter noun, though plural in form, must frequently be regarded as singular in connotation.) 167 See Walter Grundmann s article on �� and cognates in Th.W.N.T., Vol. II, p. 49 ff., especially p. 55.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.5-50.2.8|AUTODETECT|” 168 As to distinction between fashion and form see on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.5-50.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:5 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 )

New Testament Commentary (Baker)

William Hendriksen (1900–1982) was a Dutch-American Reformed theologian and professor at Calvin Theological Seminary. His New Testament Commentary series, later completed by Simon J. Kistemaker, covers the entire New Testament and is one of the most highly regarded Reformed commentary sets of the …

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Old Testament

New Testament

MAT MRK LUK JHN ACT ROM 1CO 2CO GAL EPH PHP COL 1TH 2TH 1TI 2TI TIT PHM HEB JAS 1PE 2PE 1JN 2JN 3JN JUD REV

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