READING: Philippians 3
Turning to the problem of legalistic influences, Paul refutes the attempt to attain righteousness through keeping the law, using his own life as an example of the futility of works-based righteousness (3:1–9). Having found true righteousness through faith in Christ, he presses on toward the goal of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (3:10–16). He warns about those who set their mind on earthly things and contrasts this with his passion for heavenly things (3:17–21).
Because of its informality, Philippians does not follow an outline, but quickly moves through a variety of topics. The words “joy” and “rejoice” appear sixteen times, and these words capture the spirit of this epistle; Paul learned the secret of being content in any and every situation (4:12), and his single-minded pursuit of the personal knowledge of Christ (3:10) and understanding that to live is Christ and to die is gain (1:21) were at the core of his being.
Prayer
Lord, I lay hold of the righteousness which comes through faith in Christ Jesus. May I know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings.
Meditation passage: verses 3, 8–14, 20–21
