“I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me.” Philippians 3:12 NLT
I quote this text a lot.
I use it when I miss the mark and question my abilities.
I use it when this journey feels in vain, worthless maybe and I want to give up.
I use it to encourage others when their language shows they may have forgotten about the grace allotted to them.
I use it because I’m thankful that the Apostle Paul made sure to include it in his letter to the church in Philippi.
So, what is the “goal” that Paul is referencing in verse 12? I’m so glad you asked. In verses 10-11, Paul talks about what he is working towards:
“I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death, so that on way or another I will experience the resurrection from the dead!” Philippians 3:10-11 NLT
To know Christ and experience the resurrecting power of God, is Paul’s goal.
Why is this important? Paul opens the chapter with boldly proclaiming that his resume for righteousness is one to boast about. But those things are all worthless when compared to what Christ offers. And even with all of the work Paul has done for the Kingdom of God - there is still more room for his growth. He has not crossed the finish line in his journey that allows him to shift his gear to autopilot.
Instead, Paul acknowledges that even though he has not reached perfection in his pursuit of Christ, he presses on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus is calling us. (v. 14)
This declaration from Paul is good news for us because it allows space and grace for us to keep on pressing on. And if we fall short - then we get up and like Paul, trust in the certainty that. God, who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. (Phil. 1:6)