The Faith Journey of Paul : An Exegetical Analysis of Philippians 3:1-14 Conspectus : The Journal of the South African Theological Seminary, Volume 7, Issue 03, Mar 2009 , p. 81 - 100

Abstract

This journal article examines the faith journey of Paul, specifically as it is delineated in Philippians 3:1-14. Verses 1-6 reveal that in the past, before he put his faith in Christ, Paul trusted in his human attainments. According to verses 7-11, after Paul encountered the risen Lord on the road to Damascus, the apostle made growing in the knowledge of Christ the central focus of his existence in the here-and-now. Finally, in verses 12-14, it is disclosed that Paul set his sights on increasing in Christlikeness. Based on the sports analogy of athletes running in a race, Paul explained that following Christ requires unrelenting dedication and perseverance on the part of believers. This involves doing the following: (a) putting our past—with all its shortcomings and attainments, whether real or imagined—behind us; (b) living wholeheartedly for Christ in the present; and (c) using all our effort to press on toward the future goal of being made complete in spiritual union with Christ in heaven.