Pressing On to Perfection in Christ: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Philippians 3

Executive Summary ✨

Philippians 3 is a powerful call to spiritual maturity, urging believers to “press on to perfection in Christ.” Paul, writing from prison, warns the Philippians against legalistic “dogs” and “evil workers,” reminding them that true righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not through adherence to the Law. He recounts his own impressive credentials and then declares that he counts everything as loss for the sake of knowing Christ. He longs to share in Christ’s sufferings and resurrection, striving toward the goal of the heavenly prize. This chapter profoundly emphasizes the singular importance of knowing Christ, rejecting earthly pursuits, and pursuing the upward call of God. The core message: true spiritual growth lies in forsaking all else for the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus our Lord, and pressing on, like St. Paul, towards the eternal inheritance prepared for those who love Him. Let us consider this pressing on to perfection in Christ as a way of life.

Philippians 3:1-21 is a profound testament to the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul, with pastoral fervor, guides the Philippian believers toward true spiritual maturity by warning them against false teachers and urging them to prioritize the surpassing worth of knowing Christ above all else. This passage is more than just theological instruction; it’s a deeply personal declaration of Paul’s own spiritual journey and a roadmap for every Christian seeking to follow in his footsteps. This pressing on to perfection in Christ is an essential journey for all believers.

Commentary Sections 📖

Philippians 3:1 – Rejoice in the Lord

Τὸ λοιπόν, ἀδελφοί μου, χαίρετε ἐν Κυρίῳ. τὰ αὐτὰ γράφειν ὑμῖν ἐμοὶ μὲν οὐκ ὀκνηρόν, ὑμῖν δὲ ἀσφαλές. (The remaining, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed [is] not grievous, but for you safe.) (KJV: Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.)

Paul begins with a familiar exhortation: “Rejoice in the Lord!” This isn’t mere Pollyannaish optimism but a deep-seated joy rooted in our relationship with Christ. The repetition signifies the importance of these warnings and teachings. It echoes the Psalms: “Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright” (Psalm 33:1). We must constantly remind ourselves of the joy found in Christ, especially in the face of trials. Like the services offered by DoHost in providing stable and reliable resources, we can find a steadfast foundation in Christ.

Spiritual Application: Cultivate a conscious awareness of God’s presence throughout your day. Remind yourself of His love and grace, and let that fuel your joy. Regularly read Scripture and pray to maintain this connection. A life spent in the joy of the Lord is a life well-lived.

Philippians 3:2-3 – Beware of False Teachers

Βλέπετε τοὺς κύνας, βλέπετε τοὺς κακοὺς ἐργάτας, βλέπετε τὴν κατατομήν. ἡμεῖς γάρ ἐσμεν ἡ περιτομή, οἱ πνεύματι Θεοῦ λατρεύοντες καὶ καυχώμενοι ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ καὶ οὐκ ἐν σαρκὶ πεποιθότες. (Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh.) (KJV: Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision. For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.)

Paul uses strong language – “dogs,” “evil workers,” “the concision” – to denounce false teachers. In that time, “dogs” was a term used to refer to unclean, impure people. These are likely Judaizers, who insisted on adherence to the Mosaic Law, particularly circumcision, for salvation. Paul argues that true circumcision is spiritual, performed by the Holy Spirit, not by the flesh. As St. Cyril of Alexandria said, “Οὐ γὰρ ἡ σωματικὴ περιτομὴ σώζει, ἀλλ’ ἡ πνευματικὴ ἡ διὰ πίστεως ἐν Χριστῷ.” (For it is not the physical circumcision that saves, but the spiritual through faith in Christ.) (Cyril of Alexandria, Commentary on Galatians).

Spiritual Application: Be discerning! Test every teaching against the Word of God and the traditions of the Church. Don’t be swayed by charismatic personalities or appealing arguments that contradict sound doctrine. Trust in the inner witness of the Holy Spirit.

Philippians 3:4-6 – Paul’s Former Zeal

καίπερ ἐγὼ ἔχων πεποίθησιν καὶ ἐν σαρκί. εἴ τις δοκεῖ ἄλλος πεποιθέναι ἐν σαρκί, ἐγὼ μᾶλλον· περιτομῇ ὀκταήμερος, ἐκ γένους Ἰσραήλ, φυλῆς Βενιαμίν, Ἑβραῖος ἐξ Ἑβραίων, κατὰ νόμον Φαρισαῖος, κατὰ ζῆλος διώκων τὴν ἐκκλησίαν, κατὰ δικαιοσύνην τὴν ἐν νόμῳ γενόμενος ἄμεμπτος. (Though I also might have confidence in the flesh. If any other thinks that he has reason to trust in the flesh, I more: circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of the Hebrews; concerning the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; concerning the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.) (KJV: Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.)

Paul lists his impressive Jewish credentials: circumcised on the eighth day (according to the Law), of the tribe of Benjamin (a prestigious tribe), a Hebrew of Hebrews (pure Jewish lineage), a Pharisee (expert in the Law), zealous in persecuting the Church, and outwardly blameless according to the Law. He highlights this to emphasize that he understands the allure of legalism. He wasn’t ignorant of the Law; he excelled in it. This is not to diminish the Law, but to show that even perfect adherence to it cannot bring salvation apart from faith in Christ.

Spiritual Application: Don’t rely on your background, achievements, or religious activities for your relationship with God. He looks at the heart, not outward appearances. True righteousness is a gift, received through faith.

Philippians 3:7-9 – All Things Loss for Christ

ἀλλὰ ἅτινα ἦν μοι κέρδη, ταῦτα ἥγημαι διὰ τὸν Χριστὸν ζημίαν. ἀλλὰ μὲν οὖν καὶ ἡγοῦμαι πάντα ζημίαν εἶναι διὰ τὸ ὑπερέχον τῆς γνώσεως Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου μου, δι’ ὃν τὰ πάντα ἐζημιώθην καὶ ἡγοῦμαι σκύβαλα, ἵνα Χριστὸν κερδήσω καὶ εὑρεθῶ ἐν αὐτῷ, μὴ ἔχων ἐμὴν δικαιοσύνην τὴν ἐκ νόμου ἀλλὰ τὴν διὰ πίστεως Χριστοῦ, τὴν ἐκ Θεοῦ δικαιοσύνην ἐπὶ τῇ πίστει. (But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith.) (KJV: But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:)

This is the heart of Paul’s message. He considered all his previous advantages as “loss” and even “rubbish” (σκύβαλα – a very strong word referring to refuse) for the sake of knowing Christ. He desires to be found “in Him,” possessing a righteousness that comes not from the Law but through faith in Christ. This is the “righteousness of God.” St. John Chrysostom explains: “Οὐ γὰρ ἔφη ἁπλῶς δικαιοσύνην, ἀλλὰ τὴν ἐκ Θεοῦ δικαιοσύνην, ἐπὶ τῇ πίστει.” (For he did not say simply righteousness, but the righteousness from God, upon faith.) (John Chrysostom, Homilies on Philippians)

Spiritual Application: What are you holding onto that hinders your relationship with Christ? Be willing to let go of anything – possessions, ambitions, even cherished beliefs – that stands between you and Him. Seek to know Christ more deeply through prayer, Scripture, and service.

Philippians 3:10-11 – Knowing Christ’s Power and Suffering

τοῦ γνῶναι αὐτὸν καὶ τὴν δύναμιν τῆς ἀναστάσεως αὐτοῦ καὶ τὴν κοινωνίαν τῶν παθημάτων αὐτοῦ, συμμορφούμενος τῷ θανάτῳ αὐτοῦ, εἴ πως καταντήσω εἰς τὴν ἐξανάστασιν τὴν ἐκ νεκρῶν. (that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.) (KJV: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.)

Paul’s goal is to “know Him,” not just intellectually but experientially. This involves knowing the power of Christ’s resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings. To be “conformed to His death” means to die to self, to our own desires and ambitions, so that we might share in His resurrection. As we share in His sufferings, we participate in the ultimate victory. The early Church Fathers often spoke of “kenosis,” emptying oneself as Christ did, to fully receive God’s grace.

Spiritual Application: Don’t shy away from suffering. Embrace it as an opportunity to draw closer to Christ. Remember that suffering produces perseverance, character, and hope (Romans 5:3-5). Look for ways to serve others and to sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel.

Philippians 3:12-14 – Pressing On Toward the Goal

οὐχ ὅτι ἤδη ἔλαβον ἢ ἤδη τετελείωμαι, διώκω δὲ εἰ καὶ καταλάβω, ἐφ’ ᾧ καὶ κατελήμφθην ὑπὸ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ. ἀδελφοί, ἐγὼ ἐμαυτὸν οὐ λογίζομαι κατειληφέναι· ἓν δέ, τὰ μὲν ὀπίσω ἐπιλανθανόμενος, τοῖς δὲ ἔμπροσθεν ἐπεκτεινόμενος, κατὰ σκοπὸν διώκω ἐπὶ τὸ βραβεῖον τῆς ἄνω κλήσεως τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ. (Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.) (KJV: Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.)

Paul admits he hasn’t “already attained” or “already perfected.” He’s still pressing on! This is crucial. Spiritual growth is a lifelong journey. He forgets what is behind (past successes and failures) and strains forward, “pressing toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” This is the heavenly reward, eternal life with God. St. Macarius of Egypt said, “Ἀνάγκη οὖν ἐστιν ἡμᾶς ἀεὶ προκόπτειν καὶ ἀεὶ ζητεῖν τὸν Θεὸν.” (It is necessary for us to always advance and always seek God.) (Macarius of Egypt, Homilies)

Spiritual Application: Don’t become complacent in your faith. Never stop growing. Learn from your past, but don’t dwell on it. Keep your eyes fixed on the prize – eternal life – and press on with diligence and perseverance.

Philippians 3:15-16 – Walking According to the Rule

ὅσοι οὖν τέλειοι, τοῦτο φρονῶμεν· καὶ εἴ τι ἑτέρως φρονεῖτε, καὶ τοῦτο ὁ Θεὸς ὑμῖν ἀποκαλύψει. πλὴν εἰς ὃ ἐφθάσαμεν, τῷ αὐτῷ στοιχεῖν. (Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us be of the same mind.) (KJV: Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.)

Paul calls on those who are “mature” (τέλειοι – perfect, complete) to have this same mindset of pressing forward. If they disagree, God will reveal the truth to them. “Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule.” This emphasizes the importance of living consistently with what we already know. It’s not about achieving perfect understanding, but about faithfully living out the truth we’ve been given. As St. Basil the Great said, “Τὸ μὲν ἀληθὲς οὐδεὶς καταλαμβάνει τέλειον, τὸ δὲ καλῶς ζῆν πάντες δύνανται.” (No one perfectly grasps the truth, but all can live well.) (Basil the Great, Homilies)

Spiritual Application: Strive for maturity in your faith, but don’t be discouraged if you don’t have all the answers. Focus on living consistently with the truth you know, and trust that God will continue to guide you.

Philippians 3:17-19 – Enemies of the Cross

Συμμιμηταί μου γίνεσθε, ἀδελφοί, καὶ σκοπεῖτε τοὺς οὕτως περιπατοῦντας καθὼς ἔχετε τύπον ἡμᾶς. πολλοὶ γὰρ περιπατοῦσιν οὓς πολλάκις ἔλεγον ὑμῖν, νῦν δὲ καὶ κλαίων λέγω, τοὺς ἐχθροὺς τοῦ σταυροῦ τοῦ Χριστοῦ, ὧν τὸ τέλος ἀπώλεια, ὧν ὁ θεὸς ἡ κοιλία, καὶ ἡ δόξα ἐν τῇ αἰσχύνῃ αὐτῶν, οἳ τὰ ἐπίγεια φρονοῦσιν. (Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things.) (KJV: Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.))

Paul urges the Philippians to imitate him and to observe those who live according to the example they have seen in him. He warns them about “enemies of the cross of Christ,” whose “god is their belly” and whose “glory is in their shame.” These are people who are driven by earthly desires and self-gratification, and whose lives are ultimately headed for destruction. Their minds are set on earthly things, not on heavenly realities.

Spiritual Application: Choose your role models wisely. Surround yourself with people who are genuinely pursuing Christ. Be wary of those who prioritize worldly pleasures and values. Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things (Colossians 3:2).

Philippians 3:20-21 – Our Citizenship is in Heaven

ἡμῶν γὰρ τὸ πολίτευμα ἐν οὐρανοῖς ὑπάρχει, ἐξ οὗ καὶ σωτῆρα ἀπεκδεχόμεθα τὸν Κύριον Ἰησοῦν Χριστόν, ὃς μετασχηματίσει τὸ σῶμα τῆς ταπεινώσεως ἡμῶν σύμμορφον τῷ σώματι τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ, κατὰ τὴν ἐνέργειαν τοῦ δύνασθαι αὐτὸν καὶ ὑποτάξαι αὐτῷ τὰ πάντα. (For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.) (KJV: For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.)

Our true citizenship is in heaven! This is a powerful statement. We are pilgrims and sojourners on earth, waiting for the return of our Savior, Jesus Christ. He will transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body. This is the ultimate hope of the resurrection. Our current physical limitations and weaknesses will be replaced with a glorious, immortal body. St. Athanasius says in *De Incarnatione*, that through the Incarnation, “He was made man that we might be made God.” This transformation is achieved “according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.”

Spiritual Application: Live with an eternal perspective. Remember that this world is not our home. Let your hope in the resurrection shape your priorities and actions. Invest in things that will last for eternity.

Subtopic Sections ✨

The Danger of Legalism

Legalism, the idea that salvation is earned through adherence to laws and rituals, is a persistent threat to authentic faith. Paul vehemently opposed legalism because it undermines the grace of God and the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice.

• It leads to self-righteousness: Focusing on outward performance rather than inward transformation.
• It creates division: Judging others based on their adherence to rules.
• It misses the point of the Law: The Law was meant to reveal our sinfulness and point us to Christ.
• It obscures the Gospel: It suggests that we can earn God’s favor, which contradicts the free gift of salvation.
• It stifles spiritual growth: It focuses on external compliance rather than a genuine relationship with God.
• It breeds hypocrisy: Trying to appear righteous outwardly while inwardly struggling with sin.

The Surpassing Worth of Knowing Christ

Knowing Christ is not just about intellectual assent to certain doctrines. It’s about a deep, personal relationship that transforms every aspect of our lives. This is the pressing on to perfection in Christ. It involves…

• Experiencing His love: Recognizing the depth and breadth of His sacrificial love for us.
• Trusting in His grace: Relying on His unmerited favor for salvation and daily living.
• Obeying His commands: Submitting to His will and following His teachings.
• Sharing in His sufferings: Participating in His mission and bearing witness to His Gospel.
• Knowing His power: Experiencing the transformative power of His resurrection in our lives.
• Reflecting His character: Becoming more like Him in our thoughts, words, and actions.

FAQ ❓

• Q: What does it mean to “press on” toward the goal?
• A: “Pressing on” signifies a continuous, active pursuit of spiritual maturity. It’s about striving to know Christ more deeply, overcoming obstacles, and never becoming complacent in our faith. It’s a commitment to ongoing growth and transformation.
• Q: How can I “forget what is behind” when I struggle with past mistakes?
• A: Forgetting the past doesn’t mean ignoring it, but rather releasing its hold on you. Confess your sins, receive God’s forgiveness, and learn from your mistakes. Don’t let past failures define you. Focus on the present and future, trusting in God’s grace to help you move forward.
• Q: What does it mean to have our “citizenship in heaven?”
• A: This means that our ultimate allegiance is to God’s kingdom, not to any earthly nation. Our values, priorities, and identity are rooted in our relationship with Christ. We are to live as ambassadors of heaven, representing God’s love and truth in the world.
• Q: How do I balance the pursuit of earthly responsibilities with the focus on heavenly things?
• A: We are called to be responsible stewards of the gifts and opportunities God has given us in this life. However, we must not allow earthly concerns to consume us or distract us from our ultimate purpose. Seek to integrate your faith into every aspect of your life, viewing your work, relationships, and resources as opportunities to serve God and advance His kingdom.

Conclusion

Philippians 3 offers profound insights into the Christian life, emphasizing the surpassing worth of knowing Christ and the importance of pressing on toward spiritual maturity. St. Paul’s message rings as true today as when it was first written. We must be vigilant against false teachings, reject legalism, and fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Counting all things as loss for Christ, we must embrace suffering as an opportunity to share in His glory. Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await His return. This pressing on to perfection in Christ involves continuous effort, intentional growth, and unwavering faith. By doing so, we participate in God’s transformative power and inherit the eternal prize.

Tags

Pressing On to Perfection in Christ is the journey towards true spiritual growth.