At Go Deeper Ministries, we strive to delve into the profound truths of Scripture, uncovering the layers of meaning that God has provided for our spiritual growth. Today, we turn our focus to a powerful passage from the Apostle Paul found in Philippians 3:4-11. In these verses, Paul lays out a compelling argument about the relative worth of his earthly achievements compared to the surpassing knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Paul’s Pedigree and Earthly Achievements
In Philippians 3:4-6, Paul lists his impressive credentials:
“If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.”
Paul’s pedigree was impeccable. He was born into a devout Jewish family and adhered strictly to the law. As a Pharisee, he was part of a respected sect known for their rigorous observance of the Torah. His zeal was unmatched, even to the point of persecuting the early Christian church. By all worldly standards, Paul had every reason to boast about his accomplishments.
The Great Exchange
However, in verses 7-8, Paul makes a startling declaration:
“But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.”
Paul undergoes a radical transformation in his value system. Everything he once regarded as gains—his heritage, his status, his zeal—he now considers loss. The knowledge of Christ surpasses all these achievements. Paul uses strong language, referring to his former gains as “garbage” (or “dung” in some translations), emphasizing their worthlessness in comparison to Christ.
The True Righteousness
Paul continues in verses 9-11:
“and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.”
Here, Paul contrasts two kinds of righteousness: one based on the law and his own efforts, and the other based on faith in Christ. The former is self-centered and ultimately inadequate, while the latter is God-given and perfect. Paul’s desire is to be found in Christ, experiencing the power of His resurrection and even participating in His sufferings. This, Paul believes, leads to true life and resurrection.
Lessons for Us
Paul’s message in Philippians 3:4-11 challenges us to reconsider what we value most in life. Are we placing our confidence in our achievements, status, or heritage? Or are we seeking the surpassing knowledge of Christ? Paul’s testimony urges us to shift our focus from worldly gains to the eternal worth of knowing Jesus.
At Go Deeper Ministries, we encourage you to reflect on this passage and let it transform your perspective. Embrace the true righteousness that comes from faith in Christ, and pursue the deep, life-changing knowledge of our Lord. As we grow in our relationship with Him, we find that nothing else compares to the joy and fulfillment found in Christ alone.
May Paul’s words inspire you to go deeper in your faith and walk more closely with Jesus, recognizing that in Him, we find our true worth and purpose.
Blessings!
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Paul’s experiences were very contrasting before and after he ‘saw the light’. Of course, the latter experience was better as he considered his former life rubbish. What a great example even for those whose change wasn’t that dramatic, but, non-the-less it was (and is) a growing in the faith and a change. Life is so much easier and better when we trust and depend on God. Thanks for your writings about Paul.