Philippians 3:17 - Printer Friendly

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

NIV: Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.

NASB: Brothers and sisters, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us.

CSB: Join in imitating me, brothers and sisters, and pay careful attention to those who live according to the example you have in us.

NLT: Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example.

KJV: Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.

NKJV: Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern.

The goal of a Christian is to become more like Christ (Philippians 3:11–16). Since his focus is entirely on this goal, and he considers all other pursuits "rubbish," Paul teaches his readers to mimic his approach. Paul's best teaching tool is more than a letter—it is his life. Paul can appeal to his own example as a model for his readers because his focus is on Christ. This shows clearly in his words, actions, and attitudes.

Paul's suggestion is not coming from a sense of arrogance. He has already noted his own imperfection (Philippians 3:12). Paul also teaches the Philippians to look to the example of other godly people. In a time before the completed New Testament, a living example was especially important. Even today, the lives of godly people—seen in person or in a biography—can inspire us to deeper spiritual growth. Jesus also used the tool of personal example when teaching His followers (John 13:15). Hebrews 11 offers the examples of other godly people given as inspiration to believers.

Philippians 3:12—4:1 explains the proper attitude Christians ought to have on the process of ''sanctification.'' This is the gradual, lifelong path of becoming more and more like Jesus. Our place in eternity is secure from the moment we trust in Christ, but it takes time to see our actions and attitudes change to be like His. Paul notes that he is not perfect, but encourages Christians to mimic his singular focus on pursuing Jesus. Paul also weeps for those who reject the gospel, a choice that will result in their destruction.

Paul details his impressive Jewish resume. None of his critics or challengers could boast the pedigree carried by Paul. He mentions this only to emphasize how little such things mean, next to faith in Christ. Paul's language here is sharp and to the point. He then explains how a Christian's focus ought to be purely on Christ, just as a runner concentrates on their goal in order to run effectively. Rather than looking to the past, or to ourselves, we ought to look forward, to an eternity with the Lord.

In chapters 1 and 2, Paul explained how Christians should respond to hardships. Since Christ was willing to obey God, even to the point of death, we should do the same. Complaining and worry have no place in the life of a saved believer. Chapter 3 makes a bold contrast. Paul's credentials, according to Jewish tradition, were impeccable. And yet, for him, none of those accomplishments are worth anything next to fellowship with Christ. For this reason, Christ is to be the sole focus of the believer. This sets up Paul's final greetings and instructions in chapter 4.

Philippians is Paul's discussion of living the Christian life. In this letter to the church of Philippi, Paul highlights themes such as joy and glory. He also puts great emphasis on how a Christian's thinking—their attitude—affects the way they live out their faith. Paul is very thankful for the support of the Philippian church, but is also concerned about the influence of various false teachers. This letter is less theological than most of his other writings, and more practical.

Accessed 5/3/2024 1:08:11 PM