Text: Philippians 3:15-21
- Marked by the right attitudes (Phil. 3:15-16, cf. Phil. 3:7-12).
- “Mature” (Phil. 3:15) and “Perfected” (Phil. 3:12) are from the same word.
- Paul is connecting Christian maturity to the “mind” he just described (Phil. 3:7-14).
- “This mind” of maturity is one that understands the value of Scriptural knowledge in comparison to any other worldly pursuit (cf. Phil. 3:7-8).
- “This mind” of maturity is one that understands the source of true righteousness (cf. Phil. 3:9).
- “This mind” of maturity is one that understands the ultimate goal of the Christian life (cf. Phil. 3:10-11).
- “This mind” of maturity is one that understands the lifelong commitment to “press toward the goal” (cf. Phil. 3:12-14).
- Marked by the right actions (Phil. 3:17).
- Paul frequently encouraged others to take note of his example (1 Cor. 4:16; 11:1; Phil. 4:9; 2 Tim. 2:2).
- Learning to follow the right examples, while avoiding the wrong ones, is a true mark of maturity!
- Marked by the right avoidances (Phil. 3:18-19; cf. Phil. 3:2-3; Rom. 16:17-18).
- Marked by the right ascension (Phil. 3:20-21).
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