Christian Basics: Emulate Worthy Christians (part IV)

“Eagerly Awaiting Jesus’ Return”

Philippians 3:17-4:1

Big Picture: Emulate those Christians who eagerly await Jesus’ return, not those whose mind is on earthly things (3:17-4:1).

What the apostle desires the Philippians imitate in his behavior is motivated by his understanding of two biblical realities:

1. The Christian’s “heavenly citizenship” in the present.

2. The transformation of our lowly bodies at Jesus’ return, so that they will be like his glorious body.

Point # 1 Christian, follow the apostle’s example and other Christians who live as Paul does, particularly in their burning ambition to know Christ better in the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings, together with a determination to press on so as to finish the race and win the prize (17).

Point # 2 Christian, beware of the enemies of the cross of Christ whose mind is set on earthly things. Do not emulate them. Their destruction is certain (18-19).

Point # 3 Christian, remember your heavenly citizenship in the present, as you eagerly await your savior’s return (20).

Point # 4 Christian, when Jesus returns he will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body (21)