Philippians 3:17-21

English Standard Version (Chapter 3)

17 Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. 18 For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 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.

1. Imitation

Paul was their mentor, but we can be mentors to others. The idea of “imitating” a teacher had precedent in Paul’s Jewish heritage, where a pupil learned not simply by receiving instruction but by “putting into practice” the example of the teacher; the one who “imitates” thus internalizes and lives out the model presented by the teacher. This language occurs in two kinds of contexts in Paul: suffering for the sake of Christ and the gospel, and behavior that conforms to the gospel.

Illustration of my mentorship with Robyn.

Kobe copied everything…not only his moves but everything

Who has been a mentor in your life? what are ways you can be a mentor to other?

2. Persevere, let the haters hate.

8 For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 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.

truth will always resurrect. Jesus is the example

An Exegetical Summary of Philippians (3:18)

The phrase ἡμῶν τὸ πολίτευμα ὑπάρχει ‘our citizenship/homeland is’ is translated ‘we have our citizenship’ [NAB]. The present tense indicates that they are now citizens of heaven [ICC]. It stresses the idea of real existence [Bg, EGT, El, MNTC, Pl]; it means that it exists already [GNC, Lt, Mou, WC].

Paul shed tears because he knows that anytime we stand for God, the haters come out in full force. We act out of our true calling and step in faith, the haters are always there.

Have you felt this before?