Philippians·Chapter 3

How to Apply

Take a moment this week to write down something from your past that you feel is holding you back. Then, think about your goals moving forward. What’s one small step you can take towards those goals? Maybe it’s signing up for a class, reaching out to someone for support, or even just starting a new hobby. Focus on that step and let it propel you forward! Remember, it’s about the journey ahead, not the road behind you.

Chapter Context

This verse is a part of a larger conversation where the writer, Paul, shares his journey and what it means to truly pursue a meaningful life. Before this moment, Paul has been reflecting on his past achievements and experiences, realizing they don’t define him. He’s urging everyone to forget those past successes or failures and press on toward future possibilities. After this verse, he dives deeper into what it means to live with purpose and how that impacts the community around you. It’s like a pivotal moment in a story where the character decides to embrace change and move forward with courage, setting the stage for what’s to come!

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• brothers - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• not - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• consider - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• i - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• made - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• own - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• but - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• one - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• thing - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• forgetting - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What’s one thing from your past that you need to let go of in order to embrace your future more fully?

Related Verses

• Isaiah 43:18 - This verse encourages forgetting the past because God is doing something new, which ties beautifully into the idea of moving forward.
• 2 Corinthians 5:17 - Here, it talks about being made new, highlighting that when you embrace the future, you can become a new person.
• Hebrews 12:1 - This verse emphasizes running with endurance, suggesting that we should shed the weight of the past to pursue what’s ahead.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Philippians 3:13. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Rejoicing in Christ, Warning against false teachings, Value of knowing Christ, Faith over flesh, Pressing toward maturity, Heavenly citizenship, Imitating godly examples

Key Verses

Philippians 3:8, Philippians 3:10, Philippians 3:12-14, Philippians 3:20

Historical Context

Philippians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul during his imprisonment in Rome around 60-62 AD. The Philippian church, one of Paul's beloved congregations, had sent him financial support, prompting this letter of gratitude and encouragement. Chapter 3 addresses the growing influence of Judaizers who were teaching that adherence to Jewish laws, particularly circumcision, was necessary for salvation. Paul counters this by asserting that true righteousness comes through faith in Christ alone, emphasizing the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus over legalistic practices.