The Christian life was not meant to be lived alone; in fact, the book of Ecclesiastes tells us that “two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.” Thank God believers can look to others for examples of how to live life. Paul encourages the Philippians to “join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern.” He was not being arrogant, but simply setting himself and others as examples of imperfect people progressing in Christlikeness. Paul does warn his readers that there are those who set themselves up examples, but are not sincere (3:18). They are actually “enemies of the cross” and their “end is destruction.” The people Paul is referring to were probably associated with the church, but their works did not reflect a genuine faith. Some characteristics of these people include adherence to certain dietary laws for salvation (whose god is their belly) and an apathetic view of their sin before a holy God (whose glory is their shame). Paul also mentions that they “set their mind on earthly things.” Immediately following this statement, Paul reminds his readers that their “citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body, that it may be conformed to His glorious body….” Those whose faith was not genuine focused on earthly things while those whose faith is real reject what the world offers in exchange for the glories of heaven (3:20). Although we struggle with sickness, sin, and weakness here on earth, the believer’s body will be changed to be like the resurrected body of Jesus Christ. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, “The body is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption. It is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness, it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body.” Because our future is in heaven and not on earth, Paul urges the Philippians to “stand fast in the Lord.” Yes, this life is hard, but the believer in Jesus Christ can endure the struggles because there is hope beyond this life. In the meantime, we should be progressing in Christlikeness and be faithful to God’s will.
Dear God, make visible those who are following You so I can follow after their example. Help me to also set an example for those who look to me for guidance. Remind me often of the life that awaits me beyond this one!
