Author: Jeff Englund

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Philippians 4:1a – Crowns

Picture of a wreath on a small stand (Grok)

Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown…

Summary: Paul’s use of the word “crown” suggests royalty, victory, and glory. As we examine Paul’s use of the word, we discover more about his relationship with Jesus and the Philippians.   

We have already discussed Paul’s relationship with the church at Philippi. It is clear from his opening chapter that he holds a deep affection for the people there. The word that jumps out in this passage is “crown.” 

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Philippians 3:21b – Getting Ahead

Illustration of Jesus at the Transfiguration (Mark 9) - Pixabay

[Jesus Christ] … will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

Summary: This passage offers us insight into our spiritual nature and hope for a glorious future with Jesus.   

Who are “you?”

The reason I ask is that it matters who or what you think you are. 

There is an old joke about a new boy in town who wanted to join the local “gang.”* The rule was that to join the gang, you had to pass a test. The test was simple: Run across the freeway without getting hit. 

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Philippians 3:21a – Under Control

Picture of a lit candle against a black background (Pixabay)

…the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control,

Summary: Power is desired by those who want control over others. Jesus shows us that real power is revealed when we can control our desire for power over others. 

Consider what Paul is saying in this passage: Jesus Christ has the power to bring everything under his control. 

Wow. 

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Philippians 3:20a – Our Heavenly Passport

Picture of a red passport with a cross on the front (Grok)

But our citizenship is in heaven. 

Summary: The idea of citizenship in heaven is a provocative peek into our relationship with Jesus Christ.  

Citizenship is something many of us take for granted. Growing up, I never worried about carrying citizenship papers until I traveled overseas. Before traveling outside the country, I needed to get a passport. Getting a passport required proving that I was a citizen. 

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Philippians 3:18 – Doing and Saying

Picture of a heart-shaped jewelry box, standing open empty. (Grok)

For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.

Summary: Paul touches on a topic that challenges every thoughtful and well-meaning Christian. Ironically, those who are not thoughtful and well-meaning might not feel challenged at all.   

This verse shifts gears rather rapidly. If the resulting head-bob makes your neck hurt, don’t feel alone. We are all in the same situation. 

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Philippians 3:17b – Learning to Live

Hands forming a clay model of a person. (Grok)

… and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. 

Summary: Learning how to follow Jesus is like learning to dance. A good teacher makes it easy.   

Who do you know that lives as Paul did? 

Anybody? 

Maybe you have never run across his twin, but there are a lot of people who model their lives after Paul. Even if they are not one hundred percent successful, there is usually something we can learn by watching them. 

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Philippians 3:17a – Learning From Paul

Picture of an old textbook titled "HOW I DID IT" by Paul (Grok)

Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters…

Summary: Reading about Paul’s life in the Book of Acts reveals a portrait of a man who is not only devoted to Jesus Christ but can maintain that devotion through every hardship.  

As I read Paul’s words in this passage, my mind wanders to the question: “What was Paul like?”

What kind of person was he? 

What, exactly, was the example that he set? 

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