Paul – Page 3 – Three Minute Bible

November 17, 2025November 17, 2025

Philippians 4:3b – Body Parts

A picture of the "Book of Life" in the hands of a heavenly figure. (Grok)

… help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.

Summary: The struggle between Euodia and Syntyche is not unique. When we consider other disagreements the early church experienced, certain patterns emerge.

It might be helpful to know what Euodia and Syntyche had disagreed about. Of course, since Paul tells us that they were both “in the book of life,” it doesn’t matter to them now. They are enjoying the blessings of heaven and the company of the Lord Jesus. Earthly disagreements carry little weight in heaven.

November 12, 2025November 13, 2025

Philippians 4:1b – In the Lord (Part 1)

Man, in prayer, with the light of Christ glowing within (Grok)

… stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!

Summary: This passage provides multiple topics to ponder. In this meditation, we look at what it means to be “in the Lord.”

As we meditate on this passage, there are three separate sections we can focus on. The first is what it means to “stand firm.” The second is the phrase, “in the Lord,” and the third is “in this way.” All three carry special meaning and are worthy of our time.

November 11, 2025November 12, 2025

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.”

November 7, 2025November 8, 2025

Philippians 3:20b – Knowing Jesus

Jesus and Paul. Stained glass window. (Pixabay)

And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ…

Summary: Listening to Paul talk about waiting for Jesus is inspiring!

Where is your mind? Is it on “earthly things” or are you focused on your “citizenship … in heaven?”

November 4, 2025November 4, 2025

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.

November 3, 2025November 3, 2025

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.

October 30, 2025October 30, 2025

Philippians 3:15b – Who’s In Charge?

And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.

Summary: Ultimately, God is in charge. There is a great deal of comfort in that.

Some time ago, a man was leading a small study group at his church. In the course of preparing for the study, he wrestled with a Biblical passage that dealt with the nature of sin.

October 29, 2025October 29, 2025

Philippians 3:15a – Such a View

All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things.

Summary: Paul continues to challenge our thinking with his words. Here, he is speaking to “all of us … who are mature.” How do we know who is “mature?”

I wonder if Paul is talking to me?

He says, “All of us, then, who are mature…”

How do I know if I am “mature?”

October 28, 2025October 28, 2025

Philippians 3:13c-14 – The Prize

St Paul crosses the finish line in a footrace dragging his chains behind him (Grok)

… and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Summary: Life is not a game, but sometimes thinking in terms of a contest helps us visualize what is at stake in life.

What kind of prize motivates you?

Is it a trophy?

Are you excited by the thought of having your picture and name in the paper?

Do you work extra hard if the prize is money?

October 23, 2025October 23, 2025

Philippians 3:12a – The Reason for Faith

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal…

Summary: Paul’s understanding of the Gospel shines through in this passage. As we unpack his words, we discover a roadmap to using our time in the service of God.

In this passage, Paul confronts an unpleasant truth: If you are reading this, we have not yet obtained “the power of the resurrection” (Philippians 3:10).

So where are we? What have we obtained?