Philippians 3:13
Verse
Context
Pressing on toward the Goal
12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,14I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I count not myself to have apprehended - Whatever gifts, graces, or honors I may have received from Jesus Christ, I consider every thing as incomplete till I have finished my course, got this crown, and have my body raised and fashioned after his glorious body. This one thing I do - This is the concern, as it is the sole business, of my life. Forgetting those things which are behind - My conduct is not regulated nor influenced by that of others; I consider my calling, my Master, my work, and my end. If others think they have time to loiter or trifle, I have none: time is flying; eternity is at hand; and my all is at stake. Reaching forth - The Greek word επεκτεινομενος points out the strong exertions made in the race; every muscle and nerve is exerted, and he puts forth every particle of his strength in running. He was running for life, and running for his life.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I--whatever others count as to themselves. He who counts himself perfect, must deceive himself by calling sin infirmity (Jo1 1:8); at the same time, each must aim at perfection, to be a Christian at all (Mat 5:48). forgetting those things . . . behind--Looking back is sure to end in going back (Luk 9:62): So Lot's wife (Luk 17:32). If in stemming a current we cease pulling the oar against it, we are carried back. God's word to us is as it was to Israel, "Speak unto the children of Israel that they go forward" (Exo 14:15). The Bible is our landmark to show us whether we are progressing or retrograding. reaching forth--with hand and foot, like a runner in a race, and the body bent forward. The Christian is always humbled by the contrast between what he is and what he desires to be. The eye reaches before and draws on the hand, the hand reaches before and draws on the foot [BENGEL]. unto--towards (Heb 6:1).
John Gill Bible Commentary
I press toward the mark,.... The allusion is to the white line, or mark, which the runners in the Olympic games made up to, and to which he that came first received the prize; and by which the apostle intends the Lord Jesus Christ, who is "the scope", or "mark", of all the thoughts, purposes, and counsels of God, to which they all aim, and in which they all centre; and of the covenant of grace of which he is the sum and substance, the Mediator, surety, and messenger, in whom are all the blessings and promises of it; and of the Scriptures of truth, the writings of the Old and New Testament, which all testify of him, and agree in him; and of both law and Gospel, he is the end of the law, and the substance of the Gospel; and of all the graces of the Spirit, in the hearts of his people, faith looks at him, hope is concerned with him, and love has him for its object; and of all the duties believers are concerned in, they all point at him, they are done in his name and strength, through faith in him, and from a principle of love to him, and with a view to his glory; and so he is of their thoughts, affections, and desires: and to this mark they press, or "run", as the Syriac version renders it; they look to Jesus, while they are running their Christian race; they keep him in their view, and follow after him, because he is their forerunner, Heb 6:20, and the Captain of their salvation, Heb 2:10; they set him before them as their guide to direct them, according to whom they steer their course, that so they may not lose their way, nor move out of it, to the right hand or the left; and from whom they take great encouragement to go on, and press through the difficulties they do; and besides, they know that there is no coming at the prize, but through the mark, for there is salvation in no other, Act 4:12; and that whoever comes up to the mark, or believes in Christ, shall enjoy the prize of eternal life, which is next mentioned: for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus: by which is meant, the incorruptible crown; the crown of life, righteousness, and glory, that fadeth not away, Jam 1:12, styled "the prize of the calling of God"; because it is what God in the effectual calling calls his people to, even to a kingdom and glory, and to eternal glory and happiness; of which they have a sight, though but a glimmering view of it, and are blessed with hope in it; in which they rejoice, and see their right unto it, in the righteousness of Christ, and have a meetness for it: this is named "the high calling of God", because God is on high, who calls them to it, in allusion to the judge in the Olympic games, who was placed in an exalted situation, near the mark, with the crown in his hand, which he gave to him that came first; and because the grace by which the saints are called is from above, as every good and perfect gift is, Jam 1:17; and because the prize they are called unto consists of things above, where Jesus is, and is the hope laid up in heaven, Col 1:5, and the inheritance reserved there, Pe1 1:4; and expresses the great honour and dignity of called ones, who are called to a crown and kingdom, are raised from the dunghill, to sit among princes, and to inherit the throne of glory, and are made kings and priests unto God: and may also denote, that the calling to such high honour is from above, and not below; and is owing to the special grace and favour of God, and not to any merits of men; nor is the prize to which they are called, of him that willeth and runneth, but of God's grace and mercy, Rom 9:16, and moreover, this calling is said to be "in Christ Jesus"; for both the purpose and grace, according to which men are called, are in him; the grace by which they are called, and which is implanted in them when called, is all in and from Christ; the blessings of grace, which they then in person enjoy, are spiritual blessings in him; and even the glory they are called unto is in his hands; not only the promise of eternal life, but that itself; the gift of it is with him, and it comes through him; yea, they are called by him, and said to be the called of Christ Jesus; now the prize of this calling, which is what God has prepared from all eternity, which Christ has in his hands, and will give to all his, and which is of immense richness and eternal duration, and shall be bestowed on all Christian runners, or true believers, is what the apostle was pressing for, pursuing after, with much difficulty, through great toil and labour, diligent searching of the Scriptures, frequent wrestling with God in prayer, and constant attendance on the means of grace, and ordinances of the Gospel.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:13-14 the race: See study note on 2:16. • Paul was willing to give up everything else for the ultimate goal, the heavenly prize of eternal life.
Philippians 3:13
Pressing on toward the Goal
12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,14I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Lord's Work
By D.L. Moody15K15:50MRK 13:34PHP 3:13In this sermon by D.L. Moody, he emphasizes the importance of courage, enthusiasm, perseverance, and sympathy in doing the Lord's work. He shares examples of individuals who demonstrated these qualities and achieved great success in their endeavors. Moody encourages his listeners to have confidence in God and to be earnest in their efforts, as God can use them to accomplish great things. He also highlights the impact of kindness and acts of compassion in reaching out to those who may be feeling lonely or vulnerable. Overall, Moody's message is a call to action and a reminder of the power of faith and determination in serving the Lord.
Fresh Revelation of Jesus Christ - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill8.8K14:04Jesus ChristJOS 1:9PRO 3:11MAT 6:33JHN 15:7PHP 3:13HEB 12:6REV 1:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living according to the revelation God has given to individuals. He encourages listeners to follow God's personal instructions, whether it be waking up early to pray or any other specific guidance. The speaker also highlights the need for intimacy with Jesus Christ and emphasizes the importance of reading and keeping God's word. He urges listeners to forget both their failures and successes of the past and focus on the future, as there is still much to be possessed and many revelations to be given. The sermon concludes with a call to redeem the time and make a commitment to use it wisely.
Gathering in Jesus Name (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen5.3K1:00:27PRO 4:18DAN 4:33LUK 12:13ROM 8:29GAL 5:17PHP 3:132TI 1:6HEB 12:1REV 3:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of spiritual progress and becoming more like Jesus Christ each year. It highlights the need to forget past accomplishments and focus on continuous growth in humility, service, and freedom from worldly desires. The key is to be filled with the Holy Spirit, allowing His fire to burn up all fleshly desires and to make our lives brighter and brighter like the light of dawn.
A Sound Mind
By Don McClure5.2K53:39PSA 103:12ISA 43:18MAT 6:332CO 5:17PHP 3:13In this sermon, the speaker discusses the power of encountering Jesus and how it can transform lives. He shares a story of a woman who had a troubled past and was rejected by society. However, when she encountered Jesus at a well, she was completely transformed and became a witness for Him. The speaker also contrasts this with the teachings of Freud, who believed that people are shaped by their past experiences. Ultimately, the sermon emphasizes the importance of letting go of the past and finding freedom in Jesus.
Learning to Be a Minister
By Leonard Ravenhill5.0K1:26:10ISA 40:29DAN 6:22MAT 6:33ACT 9:5PHP 3:7PHP 3:13In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about John Wesley and his commitment to spending time with God every morning at 4 o'clock. The speaker emphasizes the importance of dedicating time to God and suggests that two hours and twenty-four minutes is a suitable amount of time to give to God each day. He also mentions the value of personal experience with God, stating that those who have encountered God in their lives are not easily swayed by arguments or criticisms. The speaker encourages the audience to prioritize their relationship with God over scholarly pursuits and to seek wisdom from the book of Proverbs.
The Power of a Master Ambition
By J. Oswald Sanders4.3K33:46Desiring GodPHP 3:13In this sermon, the speaker shares a testimony of a girl who held up a blank sheet of paper with only her signature on it, symbolizing her complete surrender to God's plan for her life. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being fully abandoned to the Lord and allowing Him to guide and direct our lives. He encourages listeners to examine their own lives and identify any areas where they may be "leaking" or not fully aligned with God's plan. The speaker also challenges listeners to have a clearly defined goal in life and to integrate their entire lives into that goal.
Loosed From Thine Infirmity
By Alan Redpath3.6K29:50InfirmityMAT 6:33MAT 7:7LUK 13:11JHN 8:36ROM 8:1PHP 3:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of the gospel to break the power of long-standing complaints and habits. He shares the story of a woman who had been crippled for 18 years and how Jesus healed her in the synagogue. The preacher encourages the audience to examine their own lives and identify any long-standing complaints or habits that have held them back. He emphasizes the importance of prayer and surrendering to Jesus in order to experience freedom and transformation.
Path
By A.W. Tozer3.5K43:10Seeking GodPHP 3:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not being controlled by fear and societal expectations. He encourages the audience to rise above the clouds of fear and take control of their lives. The preacher uses the analogy of being in an airplane and how, in just 15 minutes, the clouds can be left behind and the sun can shine again. He urges the listeners to put their trust in God and take action to overcome their challenges.
The Great God of All Creation
By A.W. Tozer3.5K44:51Character Of GodPSA 40:16JHN 3:16ACT 13:36PHP 3:13COL 3:5COL 3:22HEB 13:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of four things for spiritual success. The first is to magnify God and continually proclaim His greatness. The second is to modify the flesh, meaning to resist and overcome sinful desires. The third is to simplify one's life, focusing on what truly matters and eliminating distractions. And finally, the fourth is to serve one's generation, following the example of Jesus and David who served God's will and fell asleep in peace. The preacher encourages the audience to pray, seek God, and be a servant to others, emphasizing the significance of these four principles for a successful spiritual life.
Never Give Up; Strive to Win
By Zac Poonen2.6K14:01PHP 3:13This sermon emphasizes the possibility of spiritual growth and progress even in the midst of challenging circumstances, using examples from 1 Corinthians and Philippians. It encourages believers to strive for the first prize in their spiritual race, highlighting the importance of self-control and discipline. The message also stresses the need to continually press forward in knowing Christ, not being satisfied with past achievements but focusing on areas of growth and helping others along the journey.
Is Your Affection on Things
By Leonard Ravenhill2.6K1:04:54AffectionsACT 20:22ROM 8:28PHP 3:13PHP 4:6PHP 4:8COL 3:2In this sermon, the preacher expresses deep sorrow and confusion over the recent suicides of four young people. He questions why these tragedies occurred and wonders if their upbringing or external influences played a role. The preacher reflects on his shaken faith in human systems but maintains his faith in God. He emphasizes the importance of seeking heavenly things rather than earthly possessions and shares a story of a young preacher who faced financial difficulties but found consolation in trusting that God sees the end from the beginning.
When Signs Point in the Wrong Direction
By Carter Conlon2.6K41:34DeceptionPHP 3:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the existence of a future beyond what can be seen and perceived in the natural world. He encourages believers to be a testimony of this unseen realm through their words, actions, and character. The preacher highlights the importance of walking in the light and making a choice to live fully for God. He also emphasizes the supernatural working of the Holy Spirit in transforming believers and offering deliverance from mental torment, despair, and depression. The sermon concludes with the reminder that praising God and focusing on His greatness can have a powerful impact on the world around us.
He That Saith
By Leonard Ravenhill2.6K1:03:26GEN 5:24MAT 6:33LUK 24:45JHN 8:12PHP 3:131JN 2:6JUD 1:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of walking in the light of God's truth and holiness in a dark and corrupt world. He highlights that all the attributes of Jesus are available to believers and that the possibilities of grace are vast. The speaker reflects on his own journey of gradually unfolding revelation and urges listeners to not just talk about their faith, but to live it out in their actions. He also addresses the decline of religion and the need for believers to shine as lights in the world, following the example of Jesus in obedience, submission, compassion, and walking in the Spirit.
Things to Forget and Things to Remember
By Zac Poonen2.4K59:12RememberingEZK 6:9MAT 7:23PHP 3:13HEB 10:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering and forgetting certain things in life. He refers to the Apostle Paul's attitude in Philippians 3:13, where Paul determined to forget the things that are behind and focus on what lies ahead. The preacher suggests that we should forget the evil that others have done to us and also forget the good that we have done for others. He highlights the danger of being caught up in our past accomplishments and urges us to have a single purpose like Paul, pressing forward towards the upward call of God. Additionally, the preacher discusses how the Old Testament law was a shadow of the good things to come and explains the significance of forgetting our sins and past mistakes.
Don't Judge by Your Feelings - Part 2
By David Wilkerson2.3K35:07PHP 3:13This sermon emphasizes the importance of faith in God's covenant promises rather than relying on feelings, works, or outward signs for salvation and spiritual growth. It encourages believers to trust in God's love, seek Him in times of trouble, and reject prejudices or doubts, focusing on loving others and standing firm in faith amidst worldly conflicts and tensions.
Paul's Goal
By Vance Havner1.9K38:20Apostle PaulPHP 3:10PHP 3:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of making choices between the bad, the good, and the best in life. He warns against allowing the bad to hinder our pursuit of the good and the best. The speaker also cautions against becoming complacent and settling for mediocrity, using the example of churches that have become stagnant after building impressive buildings. He encourages listeners to press forward, striving to conform to the image of Christ and to prioritize their relationship with God above all else.
Principles of Serving God
By Zac Poonen1.8K46:03PrinciplesPHP 3:13REV 4:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Revelation chapter 4 and the invitation given to John to "come up higher" and see things from God's perspective. The speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking fellowship with God before going out to serve Him. They caution against being solely focused on the needs around us, as it can lead to a decrease in the quality of our work. The speaker encourages listeners to prioritize doing what God tells them to do, rather than getting caught up in the pressure to meet the needs of the world.
Friendship With God
By Bill McLeod1.7K37:47FriendshipPHP 3:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of viewing God as a friend and approaching Him in prayer with that mindset. He uses examples from the Bible, such as Abraham and Moses, who had close relationships with God. The speaker highlights the need for believers to spend quality time with God, not just going through the motions or asking for things, but truly seeking fellowship with Him. He criticizes the practice of limiting prayer to a short daily routine, suggesting that it is disrespectful to God and may contribute to the problems faced in churches and personal lives. The sermon encourages believers to commit their causes to God and trust Him to handle any challenges or conflicts they may face.
Reach Towards the Goal
By Erlo Stegen1.6K46:27GoalPRO 29:18MAT 6:33ROM 8:181CO 9:242CO 4:17PHP 3:13HEB 12:1In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a young man who is running a race to win the hand of a princess. Along the way, he gets distracted by a shoe made of pure gold and spends a long time pondering over it. Eventually, he remembers his goal and continues running, but arrives 15 minutes late. The king tells him that he will never get the princess unless he completes the course on time. The preacher uses this story to illustrate the importance of staying focused on our goals and not getting sidetracked by worldly distractions. He encourages Christians to have a clear goal in their faith and to keep their eyes fixed on Jesus.
Forsake Natural Understanding and Follow God’s Way
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.3K16:55God's WayPSA 107:2EPH 5:8PHP 3:131PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer and not giving up. He shares a story of a woman who had a transformative experience with God during an altar service. After seeking God earnestly, she experienced a profound change in her life and even testified about it. The preacher also talks about the power of praising God and how it can bring victory and healing. He encourages others to seek salvation and to praise the Lord with all their hearts.
For Me to Live Is Christ
By John Hunter1.2K38:48Living For ChristROM 8:18EPH 3:19PHP 1:21PHP 2:5PHP 3:10PHP 3:13PHP 4:12In this sermon, the speaker begins by challenging the idea that things would go better if God laid a person aside. He uses the example of Peter walking on water to illustrate the power of faith and the potential for greatness in serving Christ. The speaker then shifts to the apostle Paul, who was in prison when he wrote about living for Christ. Despite his circumstances, Paul had a deep longing to know Christ more intimately and to make sacrifices for the faith of others. The sermon emphasizes the importance of developing the mind of Christ and having a personal relationship with Him.
Philemon 3
By Ken Baird1.1K43:192CO 11:132CO 11:232CO 12:10PHP 3:13In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the tendency to look backwards and reminisce at the end of the year. He shares personal experiences of loss and encourages the audience to press forward and forget the past. The speaker emphasizes the importance of service to the Lord and being a part of the body of Christ. He also highlights the need to keep our eyes forward and upward, anticipating the second coming of Jesus Christ and the recompense of the reward. The speaker concludes by reminding the audience of the challenges faced by the Apostle Paul and encourages them to persevere in their faith despite difficulties.
From Now On
By Peter Maiden1.1K1:13:18Christian LivingMAT 6:331CO 10:1PHP 3:13In this sermon, the speaker challenges the audience to examine their Christian lives and determine if they are truly straining towards what lies ahead. He emphasizes the importance of daily progress and not dwelling on past accomplishments. The speaker uses the parable of the man who found treasure in a field to illustrate the need to prioritize spiritual growth over worldly desires. He also highlights the biblical exhortations to constantly progress and add to our faith. The overall message of the sermon is to encourage believers to be serious about their Christian life and constantly strive towards spiritual growth.
Yield as Pliable Clay to the Potter
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.1K18:01YieldingPHP 3:13In this sermon, the preacher uses the analogy of a potter shaping clay to illustrate God's work in our lives. He describes how the potter takes a misshapen vase and continually works on it until it becomes a beautiful symmetrical piece. The preacher emphasizes that God chooses us, like the potter chooses clay, to mold us according to His will. He highlights the importance of being pliable and surrendering our own desires to allow God to work in us. The sermon concludes with the reminder that we should not be satisfied with ourselves but continually press towards the mark for the prize of the high calling of God.
Revival Men: Leonard Ravenhill
By E.A. Johnston99019:08Revival MenPSA 42:1ISA 61:10MAT 6:33JHN 1:23ACT 1:8EPH 3:8PHP 3:13The sermon transcript describes the powerful speaking abilities of a preacher named Leonard Ravenhill. The transcript includes an illustration of a visit to a woman's cluttered and dirty house, highlighting Ravenhill's ability to captivate listeners with vivid descriptions. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of being close to God and having a strong prayer life. Ravenhill's passion for God and his desire for a genuine demonstration of the power of the gospel are highlighted. The transcript concludes with a personal anecdote describing Ravenhill as a frail old man who exuded a powerful presence.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I count not myself to have apprehended - Whatever gifts, graces, or honors I may have received from Jesus Christ, I consider every thing as incomplete till I have finished my course, got this crown, and have my body raised and fashioned after his glorious body. This one thing I do - This is the concern, as it is the sole business, of my life. Forgetting those things which are behind - My conduct is not regulated nor influenced by that of others; I consider my calling, my Master, my work, and my end. If others think they have time to loiter or trifle, I have none: time is flying; eternity is at hand; and my all is at stake. Reaching forth - The Greek word επεκτεινομενος points out the strong exertions made in the race; every muscle and nerve is exerted, and he puts forth every particle of his strength in running. He was running for life, and running for his life.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
I--whatever others count as to themselves. He who counts himself perfect, must deceive himself by calling sin infirmity (Jo1 1:8); at the same time, each must aim at perfection, to be a Christian at all (Mat 5:48). forgetting those things . . . behind--Looking back is sure to end in going back (Luk 9:62): So Lot's wife (Luk 17:32). If in stemming a current we cease pulling the oar against it, we are carried back. God's word to us is as it was to Israel, "Speak unto the children of Israel that they go forward" (Exo 14:15). The Bible is our landmark to show us whether we are progressing or retrograding. reaching forth--with hand and foot, like a runner in a race, and the body bent forward. The Christian is always humbled by the contrast between what he is and what he desires to be. The eye reaches before and draws on the hand, the hand reaches before and draws on the foot [BENGEL]. unto--towards (Heb 6:1).
John Gill Bible Commentary
I press toward the mark,.... The allusion is to the white line, or mark, which the runners in the Olympic games made up to, and to which he that came first received the prize; and by which the apostle intends the Lord Jesus Christ, who is "the scope", or "mark", of all the thoughts, purposes, and counsels of God, to which they all aim, and in which they all centre; and of the covenant of grace of which he is the sum and substance, the Mediator, surety, and messenger, in whom are all the blessings and promises of it; and of the Scriptures of truth, the writings of the Old and New Testament, which all testify of him, and agree in him; and of both law and Gospel, he is the end of the law, and the substance of the Gospel; and of all the graces of the Spirit, in the hearts of his people, faith looks at him, hope is concerned with him, and love has him for its object; and of all the duties believers are concerned in, they all point at him, they are done in his name and strength, through faith in him, and from a principle of love to him, and with a view to his glory; and so he is of their thoughts, affections, and desires: and to this mark they press, or "run", as the Syriac version renders it; they look to Jesus, while they are running their Christian race; they keep him in their view, and follow after him, because he is their forerunner, Heb 6:20, and the Captain of their salvation, Heb 2:10; they set him before them as their guide to direct them, according to whom they steer their course, that so they may not lose their way, nor move out of it, to the right hand or the left; and from whom they take great encouragement to go on, and press through the difficulties they do; and besides, they know that there is no coming at the prize, but through the mark, for there is salvation in no other, Act 4:12; and that whoever comes up to the mark, or believes in Christ, shall enjoy the prize of eternal life, which is next mentioned: for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus: by which is meant, the incorruptible crown; the crown of life, righteousness, and glory, that fadeth not away, Jam 1:12, styled "the prize of the calling of God"; because it is what God in the effectual calling calls his people to, even to a kingdom and glory, and to eternal glory and happiness; of which they have a sight, though but a glimmering view of it, and are blessed with hope in it; in which they rejoice, and see their right unto it, in the righteousness of Christ, and have a meetness for it: this is named "the high calling of God", because God is on high, who calls them to it, in allusion to the judge in the Olympic games, who was placed in an exalted situation, near the mark, with the crown in his hand, which he gave to him that came first; and because the grace by which the saints are called is from above, as every good and perfect gift is, Jam 1:17; and because the prize they are called unto consists of things above, where Jesus is, and is the hope laid up in heaven, Col 1:5, and the inheritance reserved there, Pe1 1:4; and expresses the great honour and dignity of called ones, who are called to a crown and kingdom, are raised from the dunghill, to sit among princes, and to inherit the throne of glory, and are made kings and priests unto God: and may also denote, that the calling to such high honour is from above, and not below; and is owing to the special grace and favour of God, and not to any merits of men; nor is the prize to which they are called, of him that willeth and runneth, but of God's grace and mercy, Rom 9:16, and moreover, this calling is said to be "in Christ Jesus"; for both the purpose and grace, according to which men are called, are in him; the grace by which they are called, and which is implanted in them when called, is all in and from Christ; the blessings of grace, which they then in person enjoy, are spiritual blessings in him; and even the glory they are called unto is in his hands; not only the promise of eternal life, but that itself; the gift of it is with him, and it comes through him; yea, they are called by him, and said to be the called of Christ Jesus; now the prize of this calling, which is what God has prepared from all eternity, which Christ has in his hands, and will give to all his, and which is of immense richness and eternal duration, and shall be bestowed on all Christian runners, or true believers, is what the apostle was pressing for, pursuing after, with much difficulty, through great toil and labour, diligent searching of the Scriptures, frequent wrestling with God in prayer, and constant attendance on the means of grace, and ordinances of the Gospel.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:13-14 the race: See study note on 2:16. • Paul was willing to give up everything else for the ultimate goal, the heavenly prize of eternal life.