Citizens of Heaven

Title: "Citizens of Heaven: Living with Our Eyes on Christ"

Key Verse: Colossians 3:2 — "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."

I. Introduction: Where Is Your Citizenship?

A. Story: Imagine someone living in a foreign country but always talking about their true home.

My wife and I have had the privilege of hosting two foreign exchange students this year. One from Azerbaijan and one from Turkmenistan. They’ve shared so much about their home countries — their culture, their traditions, their food. Even though they’re living here, their hearts are still connected to their homeland. They speak of their families, their customs, and their life back home with such love and affection. And while they’re adjusting to life here, they never forget where they come from and where at the end of the year that will go back to.

B. Transition: Paul reminds us of our true citizenship — it’s not of this world.

Paul reminds us of our true citizenship — it’s not of this world. Just like our exchange students carry their home in their hearts, we, too, are called to live with our hearts set on our true home — heaven.

II. Imitate Christlike Examples (Philippians 3:17)

Philippians 3:17 ESV

Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us.

What does Paul mean when he says "Join together in following my example."

Following Paul’s Pursuit of Christ (Philippians 3:8–14) Paul isn’t asking people to imitate his personality or preferences — he’s asking them to imitate his pursuit of Jesus. Earlier in the chapter, Paul talks about counting everything as loss compared to knowing Christ and pressing on toward the goal. Following his example means making Christ the center of our lives, above status, comfort, and personal ambition.

1 Corinthians 11:1 ESV

Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.

Living Out a Gospel-Centered Life 1 Corinthians 11:1 Paul echoes this same idea when he says, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” The invitation is to live a life shaped by the gospel — one of humility, grace, obedience, and love for God and others. Paul’s life, though imperfect, consistently reflected these values.

Walking in Maturity and Spiritual Growth (Philippians 3:15) In the verses just before, Paul talks about mature believers having this mindset — the mindset of forgetting what lies behind and striving for what’s ahead. He invites the Philippians to join him in that same mature walk, growing in faith, perseverance, and spiritual discipline.

Hebrews 13:7 ESV

Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.

Seeking Godly Role Models (Hebrews 13:7) Paul not only points to his own life but also to others who “walk according to the pattern” of faithful living. This reminds us that it’s valuable to have spiritual mentors — people who model faith, love, and perseverance — and to become those kinds of examples for others.

and finally

Imitating Sacrifice and Service (Philippians 2:3–8) Paul’s life was marked by sacrificial service for the sake of others and the gospel — following his example means adopting that same servant-hearted attitude, just as Christ did when He humbled Himself.

Transition to Philippians 3:18–20: Paul calls the Philippians to follow his example because not everyone walks this same path. As he continues in verses 18–20, Paul shifts from encouraging godly imitation to warning against the danger of following the wrong examples. He speaks with tears about those who live as “enemies of the cross of Christ” — people who are focused on earthly things rather than heavenly ones. And this contrast brings us to an important question: What kind of mindset shapes our lives?

III. Avoid Earthly-Minded Living (Philippians 3:18-19)

Philippians 3:18 ESV

For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ.

Philippians 3:19 ESV

Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.

What does it mean to have an earthly mindset?

Defining an Earthly Mindset: Paul describes these individuals as those whose “god is their belly” and whose “mind is set on earthly things.” Earthly-minded living is a life driven by temporary pleasures, material gain, and self-indulgence. It’s a life focused on satisfying immediate desires rather than pursuing eternal purpose (Romans 8:5–8).

The Tragedy of Living as Enemies of the Cross: Paul’s heart breaks for those who reject the message of the cross. The cross represents self-denial, sacrifice, and the hope of resurrection — and those who live for worldly gain reject that call. Their lives show no evidence of transformation and no desire for Christ’s lordship (Luke 9:23).

The End of Earthly-Mindedness: Paul says their “end is destruction.” Earthly-minded living may seem satisfying in the moment, but it ultimately leads to separation from God. Jesus warns of this same danger in Matthew 7:13–14 — the wide road of self-centeredness and worldly living leads to ruin.

Signs of an Earthly Mindset:

Glorifying Shameful Things: People who take pride in behaviors and values that contradict God’s Word (Isaiah 5:20).

Living for Immediate Gratification: Prioritizing comfort, pleasure, and success over faithfulness and obedience (James 4:4).

Neglecting Eternal Perspective: Focusing only on what we can gain here and now, forgetting that this life is temporary (Luke 12:16–21).

After warning against the danger of earthly-minded living, Paul shifts our focus to something far greater — our true identity and hope. While those who live for this world face destruction, believers have a different destination and a different perspective. In verses 20–21, Paul reminds us that we are not ultimately citizens of this earth — we belong to heaven. And because of that, our hope and our future are secure in Christ.

IV. Live as Citizens of Heaven (Philippians 3:20-21)

Philippians 3:20–21 ESV

But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.

Our True Citizenship (v. 20)

We are reminded again that our citizenship is not in this world, not of this country, nor of any other worldly country.

Heavenly Identity: Paul declares that “our citizenship is in heaven.” This would’ve been a powerful image for the Philippians, who were proud of their Roman citizenship — a privileged status in the ancient world. But Paul reminds them (and us) that a far greater allegiance shapes our lives. As believers, we belong to God’s kingdom (Ephesians 2:19), and our values, priorities, and lifestyle should reflect that heavenly identity.

Living as Ambassadors: If our true home is in heaven, then our time on earth is like living abroad. We are called to represent our King well (2 Corinthians 5:20), living in a way that reflects the grace, truth, and love of Christ.

Eagerly Awaiting Christ’s Return: Paul says we “await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” This shows our posture of hope and expectation. Our ultimate hope is not in the systems or successes of this world, but in the return of Jesus, who will make all things new (Titus 2:13)

The Promise of Transformation (v. 21)

Bringing it all together then we know once we recognize that our citizenship is not of this world, that it changes our whole perspective.

Our Lowly Bodies: Paul speaks of our current physical state as weak and broken. We experience sickness, aging, and the limitations of our humanity. But this won’t last forever — our current struggles point us toward the hope of what’s coming (Romans 8:23).

A Glorious Transformation: Jesus will “transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body.” This echoes the promise of resurrection — when Christ returns, believers will receive glorified bodies like His, free from sin, pain, and death (1 Corinthians 15:42–44).

The Power of Christ: Paul reminds us that this transformation will happen “by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.” Jesus’ authority over creation guarantees His ability to fulfill this promise (Colossians 1:16–17). This power isn’t just for the future — it’s active now, sustaining us and shaping us into His likeness.

Live with an Eternal Perspective: If our citizenship is in heaven, we should invest in eternal things — loving others, sharing the gospel, and growing in holiness (Matthew 6:19–21).

Hold Loosely to Earthly Things: Knowing that our true home is with Christ frees us from clinging too tightly to material possessions, status, or comfort.

Find Hope in the Promise of Transformation: Whatever struggles we face now — physical, emotional, or spiritual — they are temporary. We can endure with joy, knowing that Christ will one day make all things right (2 Corinthians 4:16–18).

After painting this beautiful picture of our heavenly citizenship and the hope of our transformation in Christ, Paul brings this section to a heartfelt and practical conclusion. In Philippians 4:1, we see his deep love for the believers in Philippi and his urgent call to stand firm. Because of our identity and future in Christ, how we live right now truly matters. This verse serves as a bridge between the powerful theological truths we just explored and the practical encouragement Paul is about to give in chapter 4.

V. Stand Firm in the Lord (Philippians 4:1)

Philippians 4:1 ESV

Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.

Paul’s Deep Affection:

Paul calls the Philippians his “brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown.” This isn’t just formal language — it’s personal and warm. Paul had a deep relationship with this church, and his words reflect the bond they shared in Christ.

“My joy and crown” suggests that the faithfulness and growth of these believers were a source of Paul’s spiritual joy and a sign of his faithful ministry (1 Thessalonians 2:19–20). It reminds us of the joy that comes from seeing others thrive in their faith.

The Call to Stand Firm:

“Stand firm thus in the Lord” is a call to perseverance. In light of everything Paul has just said — the warning against earthly-mindedness and the hope of our heavenly citizenship — believers are urged to remain steadfast in their faith.

This echoes other calls to stand firm in Scripture, like Ephesians 6:13, where we’re told to stand against the schemes of the enemy, and 1 Corinthians 15:58, where we’re called to be immovable in the work of the Lord.

“In the Lord” reminds us that we don’t stand firm in our own strength, but through the power and grace of Christ (Philippians 4:13).

Practical Application:

Stand Firm in Faith: When doubts, fears, or trials arise, hold tightly to the truth of the gospel and the promises of God (Hebrews 10:23).

Stand Firm in Hope: Keep your eyes fixed on the reality of your heavenly citizenship, letting that hope shape your daily life (Colossians 3:1–2).

Stand Firm in Unity: As Paul moves into chapter 4, he’ll address the importance of peace and unity within the church. Standing firm also means striving for harmony with fellow believers (Philippians 4:2–3).

VI. Conclusion: Eyes on Eternity

A. Story: A marathon runner focused on the finish line.

It would be easy to finish here talking about how we are to run the race then set before us, to have a heavenly mindset, to follow godly examples and to even stand firm. All good things in deed, but not of themselves, for we often find ourselves lacking much in every way. When we try and do it ourselves. that is the problem our sin nature wants to make it all about something we do, some way we can earn, even in Paul’s call to stand firm. Except that his call to stand firm is in the Lord, taking away our merit, our achievements and making it what it really is good-news for when we boast in our weakness, we can boast that much more in Christ Jesus who saved us by dying and rising again.

That is the gospel of Jesus Christ is that through His death and resurrection, we have been given a new identity and a future hope. This is the foundation on which we stand firm — not in our own efforts, but in His finished work. May our lives reflect the grace and truth of the gospel as we eagerly await our Savior’s return.