Philippians 3:12-4:1

Read through Philippians 3:12-4:1. As you read, jot down any questions you have or any details that stand out.

A Closer Look:
Observation #1: Paul writes about “forgetting the past.” What does he mean?

• To us, forgetting means that we don’t remember something; we forget to feed the dog, or we forget to grab our homework on the way to school.
• Paul uses forgetting in the sense that he refuses to let the past dictate his behavior. Have you ever done something you’ve regretted? Paul shows us that what is in the past, is in the past. Instead of focusing on everything we’ve done wrong and feeling bad about it, Paul encourages us to look forward to our future with Christ.

Observation #2: It sounds like Paul is saying that we must earn our salvation, by “working toward that day when I will finally be all that Christ Jesus saved me for and wants me to be.” What’s going on?

• This letter to the Philippians is all about living as a citizen of heaven. Paul made it clear in the last portion of the letter that we are not saved by our efforts, but only by the grace of God.
• Paul is saying, however, that our behaviors need to change once we accept Christ. Remember that the Philippians had been arguing with each other and were being selfish and proud. Instead, they needed to live in unity, be humble, and serve each other.

Observation #3: Paul pleads with the Philippians to “stay true to the Lord.” Why?

• Because “there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ” (v. 18).
• Because the Judaizers were trying to convince the Philippians to earn their salvation instead of relying on Christ.
• It’s tough to follow Christ when people are trying to steer you down the wrong path. So Paul writes to his friends – to Lydia, to the jailer – and encourages them to stay focused on Christ. As the Message puts it, “Don’t waver. Stay on track, steady in God.”

Read through Philippians 3:12-4:1 again.

Questions:

1. Read Acts 22:3-21, where Paul shares his story with a crowd of people in Jerusalem. What was Paul’s past? What might he have been trying to forget?
2. Why is our behavior so important?
3. Who is trying to steer you down the wrong path? Where have you been “wavering”?
4. What can we learn about God from this passage?

Challenge: Memorize Proverbs 4:25-27 this week. But don’t just memorize it; think about what it says. You can also check out Hebrews 12:12-13; Proverbs 2:20; and Proverbs 3:5-6.