Imitating Christ, Citizenship in Heaven (Philippians 3:17-21)
Introduction
In Philippians 3:17–21, Paul encourages the Philippians to follow his example and the example of others who live in a way that reflects Christ. He draws a distinct contrast between two ways of living: those who focus on earthly, temporal concerns and those who await the fulfillment of God’s promises. This passage calls the believer to examine their own life—how they live now, in light of the heavenly future that awaits them. Paul reminds us that we are citizens of heaven, not of this world, and that this heavenly citizenship should shape our current existence.
Paul’s words to the Philippians resonate deeply with modern Christians as well. As followers of Christ, we are called not only to walk in faithfulness but also to remain vigilant against the distractions of the world. The passage presents an invitation to consider how we live in anticipation of the resurrection and the eternal glory that will be ours when Christ returns. It challenges us to rethink where we place our energy, resources, and focus, and to remember that our ultimate home is not in this world but in the one to come.
Verse by Verse Breakdown of Philippians 3:17–21 and Commentary
Philippians 3:17 – Follow Godly Examples
“Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us” (Philippians 3:17).
Paul opens this section with an invitation to the Philippians to imitate him, not as a boastful command, but because his life is a model of Christlikeness. He is not asking the Philippians to mimic his actions in every detail but rather to adopt his heart and commitment to Christ. Paul’s life is an example of someone who is pressing forward in the pursuit of Christ, leaving behind earthly distractions. He is an example of perseverance, faith, and humility.
Paul encourages them also to “observe those who live according to the example” he has set. This communal aspect of discipleship suggests that it is not just about the example of one individual, but about a community of believers living in a way that honors Christ. The call to “observe” implies the importance of looking up to others who live faithfully and learning from their examples. For us today, this means being intentional about surrounding ourselves with others whose lives are aligned with the values of God’s kingdom.
Philippians 3:18–19 – The Danger of Earthly Mindsets
“For many live as enemies of the cross of Christ; I have often told you of them, and now I tell you even with tears” (Philippians 3:18).
In this verse, Paul shifts from encouragement to a somber warning. He speaks of those who live as “enemies of the cross of Christ.” These are people whose lives reflect a different set of priorities, focused not on Christ, but on the things of this world. Paul’s sorrowful tone—“now I tell you even with tears”—shows the depth of his anguish over their lost condition.
The phrase “enemies of the cross” is a stark term, indicating a complete opposition to the work of Christ. These individuals are not merely indifferent; they actively reject the transformative power of the cross in their lives. Paul says that their “end is destruction,” which is a strong reminder that the outcome of living for earthly pleasures and self-indulgence is eternal separation from God.
The apostle John writes about this here and here. There are people who are anti-Christ, who will stymy our faith and seek to dissuade us from faithfulness.
“Their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame” (Philippians 3:19). This imagery paints a vivid picture of the distortion of priorities that comes with living for worldly desires. In the culture of Paul’s day, the “belly” symbolized physical desires—gluttony, indulgence, and self-gratification. Those who live according to these desires live in opposition to the cross, which calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Christ.
Paul’s words invite us to examine where we are placing our trust and focus. Are we living for momentary pleasures, or are we investing in the eternal promises of God? Where do we find our glory—temporary achievements or the lasting hope of Christ’s resurrection?
Philippians 3:20 – Citizenship in Heaven
“But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20).
In contrast to those who are consumed with earthly pursuits, Paul reminds the Philippians—and us—that our citizenship is in heaven. The concept of citizenship would have been familiar to the Philippians, many of whom were Roman citizens, and Paul uses this as an analogy to remind them of their ultimate allegiance. Roman citizenship came with certain privileges, such as the right to protection under Roman law and exemption from some forms of punishment, but it also required loyalty to the empire. Likewise, Christians have privileges and responsibilities as citizens of heaven.
Living as citizens of heaven means that our ultimate allegiance is not to earthly powers, governments, or possessions, but to Christ. This heavenly citizenship shapes our values, priorities, and the way we interact with the world around us. Our lives should be marked by a distinct hope that reflects our heavenly home. As believers, we await the return of the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring about the full redemption of creation.
This is a radical reminder for us today, particularly in a world that pressures believers to conform to its values and priorities. In a culture obsessed with success, wealth, and personal achievement, we are called to live as citizens of heaven, focused on Christ’s return and the eternal inheritance that awaits us.
Philippians 3:21 – Hope of Transformation
“He will transform the body of our humiliation that it may be conformed to the body of his glory” (Philippians 3:21).
Paul concludes this passage with a powerful promise: when Christ returns, believers will be transformed. This transformation is not just spiritual but physical. The “body of our humiliation” refers to our earthly, mortal bodies, which are subject to sin, decay, and suffering. But when Christ returns, these bodies will be “conformed to the body of his glory.” This speaks to the glorious resurrection body that believers will receive—a body like Christ’s, incorruptible and perfect.
This promise of transformation offers both comfort and motivation. It reminds us that the suffering and struggles of this life are temporary. We live in a broken world, but the return of Christ will usher in a complete renewal, not only of our souls but also of our bodies. This hope should inspire us to live faithfully, knowing that our present suffering will give way to eternal glory.
Philippians 3:17–21: Meaning for Today
Paul’s call to imitate godly examples challenges us to consider who we look to for guidance in our walk with Christ. Are we surrounding ourselves with people who reflect the character of Christ? In a world that often values individualism and self-reliance, we must remember the importance of community in our spiritual journey. We are called to both model Christlikeness and learn from others who walk faithfully.
The warning about earthly mindsets is a powerful reminder to evaluate where we invest our time, energy, and resources. Are we chasing after fleeting, worldly pleasures, or are we living with an eternal perspective? The values of the world often conflict with the values of God’s kingdom, and we must resist the pull of temporary satisfaction in favor of eternal glory.
The reminder of our heavenly citizenship calls us to live differently from the world. We are not defined by our earthly status or achievements, but by our identity in Christ. Our lives should reflect our allegiance to Him and our hope in His return.
Finally, the promise of transformation offers hope and encouragement. As we face the difficulties of life, we can be confident that they are temporary. Christ will return to make all things new, and we will be transformed into His likeness. This truth should motivate us to live with purpose, joy, and a longing for the day when we will see Him face to face.
Sources:
• Fee, Gordon D. Paul’s Letter to the Philippians. NICNT, 1995, pp. 271–282.
• Silva, Moisés. Philippians. BECNT, 2005, pp. 153–164.
• Wright, N.T. Paul for Everyone: The Prison Letters. SPCK, 2004, pp. 121–127.
• Cohick, Lynn. Philippians. Story of God Bible Commentary, 2013, pp. 127–135.
