Philippians 3:7 - Printer Friendly

ESV: But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ.

NIV: But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.

NASB: But whatever things were gain to me, these things I have counted as loss because of Christ.

CSB: But everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ.

NLT: I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done.

KJV: But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

NKJV: But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ.

Paul's words in this powerful verse include two important phrases. Paul had just mentioned seven important characteristics of his Jewish faith. He adhered to the highest standards of his religion, claiming to have more confidence in the flesh than his opponents (Philippians 3:4). This would be something like a major religious leader today saying "No matter how many degrees I have or accomplishments I have achieved." His human accomplishments had been many, but were considered unimportant in comparison to his relationship with Christ.

The second phrase notes this priority. The contrast between "gain" and "loss" is clear. Paul's human accomplishments, even in the area of religion, were of no value compared to the greatness of knowing Jesus. In fact, he would have gladly traded those for more time, fellowship, and discipleship with Christ. Paul specifically notes the "sake of Christ." He uses this phrase in Philippians 1:29 as well as in 2 Corinthians 12:10 and Philemon 1:6.

Philippians 3:1–11 warns Christians about the influence of false teachers, particularly those who add legalism on top of the gospel. Paul describes his impressive credentials, showing that he has the right to consider himself ''justified'' according to the traditional Jewish view. And yet, knowing what he does of Christ, Paul sees all of those accomplishments as garbage. Faith alone saves, and fellowship with Christ is all that truly matters.

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 5/6/2024 7:10:08 PM