6th August 2024
Already attained
Only let us live up to what we already attained.
Philippians 3:16 (NIV)
Looking at this verse alone and out of context, you may think that to attain what Paul is talking about, you must use the ‘me factor’ as if our efforts are the winning ingredient. It was not in himself that Paul had confidence, not in his own works, not in the work of man’s hands but in Christ (v. 3). When we have such confidence in someone we rejoice and boast in them. We are willing to put aside ourselves and trust in them completely with our lives.
In the past, Paul had great trust in himself and in his efforts, such as his worth as a Jewish Pharisee and his qualifications as a ‘Hebrew of Hebrews’ (v. 5), one saved by his heritage and birthright. We might take great pride in being a citizen of our country, or being born into a wealthy family, or having climbed the ladder of success. These are all human things of little value compared to Christ and knowing him (v. 7). If we look at what we have attained personally, it is meaningless unless Jesus Christ is foremost in our lives.
So, what have we obtained in Christ? First, we have gained the treasure of knowing Christ (v. 8). I do not know about you, but my life has changed significantly knowing of Jesus and his great sacrifice and love for me. I truly lived without hope in a world that failed me, threatened me, and asked for more of me than I could give. I never felt as if I could measure up as they say. Yet, knowing all my weaknesses, and all my faults, Jesus chose me; he chose you as well. He knew I [we] could not measure up, and so he became the great treasure that I [we] have been looking for; anything of worth is found in Jesus.
We are told in verse 9 that we have attained righteousness; Jesus’ righteousness that has been gained by the faith he has planted within us. We are becoming (too slowly it seems at times) like him; like him in character. It is his righteousness that leaks out of the holes and cracks in my broken human character. In this way others can recognise the righteousness of Christ as he lives and works within us; making us who we should be, and are, in Christ. I am being transformed (v. 21) body, soul, and spirit, by the living, breathing life of Christ within me.
Because we have gained this knowledge of the way Christ works within us, transforms us, and redeems us, we must now live in the reality of it. I must repeat, as Paul often did, that all that we have gained of any worth is in and through Christ. Because he lives, we live. Because he works within us, we work with him. We have already attained so much in Christ. The wonder of it all is that there is still more to come. As Paul said, we must press on in the reality of the attainment of all that we are in Christ Jesus.
Prayer
Merciful Father, we are nothing without you and your glorious and wonderful love for us. I come to thank you for all that you have done for us and will continue to do. You make this life worth the living. I praise you, in Jesus’s name, Amen.
Study by Anne Gillam
About the writer:
Anne Gillam is a retired Pastor in Grace Communion International, Klamath Falls, Oregon, USA.
Local congregation:
You are welcome to attend one of our local church congregations located throughout the UK and Ireland. For details of your nearest local congregation check on our website, Grace Communion International | Grace Communion International under the ‘Churches’ tab, or ring +44 (0)1858 437099.
Word of Life contact:
wordoflife@gracecom.church