Pressing on Towards the Goal
Philippians 3:12-16
12 Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that also to you; 16 however, let us keep living by that same standard to which we have attained.
This passage is a continuation of what Paul has stated in the previous verses about knowing Jesus Christ. Paul now demonstrates for us, using his own life as an example, how we are to go about knowing Christ as we press on in the faith.
Set
Additional Bible Passages to Reference:
Hebrews 12:2; 1 Corinthians 1:30, 9:24, 15:58; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-15; Philippians 1:6; 1 John 3:2; Romans 3:21-4:25, 7:18-19; 2 Corinthians 3:5, 13:11; Galatians 6:9; 1 Peter 1:13
For Personal Reflection:
What is Paul pressing on to lay hold of according to V12? What is the prize Paul can get if he achieves his goal? What prize/reward are you striving for? What is your life passion/aim?
Do you believe we can we become perfect in this world? If it’s not possible, then what was Paul’s aim?
He mentions “pressing on” or “reaching forward” three times in these verses. What does this mean? What kind of actions might someone take who is pressing on in their spiritual life?
Why do people have a hard time forgetting what’s behind them? How can clinging to the past at times hinder our own service to God?
Why might Paul consider it a mark of maturity to recognize your own imperfection?
How have you seen placing confidence in self, rather than Christ, affect your joy in Him?
Read Romans 3:21-4:25. What does this text say about righteousness?
How does the righteousness that is from God bring justification?
How might your life look differently if you were to believe by faith that Christ’s righteousness was enough for you in each moment of life?
What step do you need to take to press on in the faith?
How can you apply these truths to your own spiritual life right now?
My Personal Notes: