Pressing On
Some mistakenly think, “now that I have come to the knowledge of Jesus as my Savior it’s all over.” What’s the error in that thinking?
That type of thinking is really a sign of “nothing’s changed.” So much so that we in our human way continue in a sinful state of mind rather than being conformed. Being conformed is important for two reasons. First, it is indicative of the faith that has come into our lives through the Holy Spirit. Second, by our new life’s walk we are able to show Jesus to those who may not know Jesus as their Savior from sin.
Paul’s exhortation to the church at Philippi (and to us) is particularly important here. The section that begins at 3:12ff reminds us that while we have received the righteousness of faith, we need to press on every day of our God-given lives.
Read Philippians 3:12-4:1
- Verse twelve can be confusing since the words “this” and “that” refer to the previous section in chapter three. Let’s define the words below:
- Not that I have already obtained all (this) ____________________
- But I press on to take hold of (that) ________________________
Remember Lot’s wife looked back to see where she came from. And what happened? Her life evaporated. As Christians we have nothing of any value that we left behind prior to our new relationship with Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior who made us right with the Father.
- In verse thirteen, Paul even admits that he had not totally grasped the concept that he has been made perfect in faith. That admission is so important to you and me today. Yes, all of us need to remember that in God’s eyes we are just as perfect as His Son, Jesus! That’s worth repeating, we are just as perfect in God’s eye as His Son Jesus. True?
- The Greek word for “press” is dioko. It means to pursue, follow after, or to press toward. The word is very closely related to another Greek word diakonos that refers to one who runs errands or an attendant. The word is frequently used to refer to pastors, teachers, and deacons(esses). What is the prize that Paul is seeking here in this verse? Go to Hebrews 12:1-2 to compare similar language.
- The next section refers back to our original statement at the beginning of this lesson. Read verses 15-16. How does verse sixteen confirm the false thinking outlined in the first statement?
- Paul reminds us that some who watch are doing so to work against us. The phrase “many live as enemies of the cross of Christ,” is important for us to remember. How does this confirm the need for each of us to remain faithful?
- Our pastors have reminded us that the Philippians 3:20-21 are the most important verses in the Bible. Why? Let’s reread them again. Describe this section in your own words and how it adds meaning to your faith walk. (NOTE: My former pastor and mentor, The Reverend W. E Lauterbach taught me these most important verses)
- Chapter four begins with that key word therefore, meaning watch out here it comes! What is the key lesson here?
Standing Firm
- Standing firm in the fact that daily I sin much and deserve nothing but punishment, yet in faith, I can go to God’s throne of grace seeking forgiveness knowing that in Christ I have already been forgiven.
- Standing firm in the fact that life is not always fair. Sickness, death, trials and much more attempt to taint our lives and seek to pull us away from our pressing on, yet in faith, I can be assured that my citizenship is in heaven.
- Standing firm in the fact that my life can be a magnet to the cross of Jesus for others, and that even though I make mistakes, my pursuit (dioko) of the goal shows that I can quickly get back on track.
Help me Lord Jesus in my weakness.