What does Philippians 3:15 mean?

In verses 12–14, Paul discussed how his life is a work in progress. Paul is not perfect, and he knows it. Rather than dwell on the past, he is committed to the future. Like a runner focused on the road ahead, Paul serves God intently focused on his ultimate goal, which is an eternity with Christ. Here, he transitions to the application of those teachings.

This perspective is the result of wisdom, maturity, and experience. Paul expects his readers to join him in pursuing Christ above all else. He believes so strongly that this is the correct approach that he leaves no room for excuses. Though Paul elsewhere speaks of room for disagreement among Christian believers (Romans 14), this is one point on which there is no room for alternate views. If anyone did not agree, Paul's hope was that God would change his or her mind.

These words are important for one primary reason. The goal of becoming more Christ-like does not apply only to Christian leaders. This is not a call only for "super-Christians," it is to be the goal of every believer. The path Paul provided was the expectation for every Christian, in the church at Philippi, as well as our own congregations today. As believers, we are taught to consider everything in life worthless in comparison with knowing Christ and becoming more like Him. There are a variety of gifts and callings, but there is only one attitude to have when it comes to growing spiritually: pursue Christ above all else.