Philippians 3:19
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whose end is destruction - This is the issue of their doctrine and of their conduct. They are here described by three characters: 1. Their god is their belly - they live not in any reference to eternity; their religion is for time; they make a gain of godliness; and live only to eat, drink, and be merry. 2. Their glory is in their shame - they lay it down as a proof of their address, that they can fare sumptuously every day, in consequence of preaching a doctrine which flatters the passions of their hearers. 3. They mind earthly things - their whole study and attention are taken up with earthly matters; they are given to the flesh and its lusts; they have no spirituality, nor do they believe that there is or can be any intercourse between God and the souls of men. But their lasciviousness and uncleanness seem to be principally intended. See Kypke. Despicable as these men were, the apostle's heart was deeply pained on their account: 1. Because they held and taught a false creed; 2. Because they perverted many by that teaching; and, 3. Because they themselves were perishing through it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
destruction--everlasting at Christ's coming. Phi 1:28, "perdition"; the opposite word is "Saviour" (Phi 3:20). end--fixed doom. whose god is their belly-- (Rom 16:18); hereafter to be destroyed by God (Co1 6:13). In contrast to our "body" (Phi 3:21), which our God, the Lord Jesus, shall "fashion like unto His glorious body." Their belly is now pampered, our body now wasted; then the respective states of both shall be reversed. glory is in their shame--As "glory" is often used in the Old Testament for God (Psa 106:20), so here it answers to "whose God," in the parallel clause; and "shame" is the Old Testament term contemptuously given to an idol (Jdg 6:32, Margin). Hos 4:7 seems to be referred to by Paul (compare Rom 1:32). There seems no allusion to circumcision, as no longer glorious, but a shame to them (Phi 3:2). The reference of the immediate context is to sensuality, and carnality in general. mind earthly things-- (Rom 8:5). In contrast to Phi 3:20; Col 3:2.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For our conversation is in heaven,.... The Ethiopic version renders it, "we have our city in heaven"; and the words may be truly rendered, "our citizenship is in heaven"; that is, the city whereof we are freemen is heaven, and we behave ourselves here below, as citizens of that city above: heaven is the saints' city; here they have no continuing city, but they seek one to come, which is permanent and durable; a city that has foundations, whose builder and maker is God, Heb 11:10, as yet they are not in it, though fellow citizens of the saints, and of the household of God; they are pilgrims, strangers, and sojourners on earth, Lev 25:23; but are seeking a better country, an heavenly one, and God has prepared for them a city, Heb 11:16; they have a right unto it through the grace of God, and righteousness of Christ, and a meetness for it in him; and their conversation is here beforehand, while their commoration, or temporary residence, is below; their thoughts are often employed about it; their affections are set upon it, Col 3:2; their hearts are where their treasure is, Mat 6:21; the desires of their souls are towards it, and they are seeking things above, and long to be in their own city, and Father's house, where Christ is; and to be at home with him, and for ever with him. This is the work and business of their lives now, and what their hearts are engaged in. The Syriac version renders it, "our work is in heaven"; the business, the exercise of our lives, and of our graces, tend that way: from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ; Christ is now in heaven, at the Father's right hand, Act 2:33, appearing in the presence of God for his people, and making intercession for them, Heb 7:25; and so will remain, until the time of the restitution of all things; when he will descend from heaven, and be revealed from thence: and this the saints look for, and expect; they have good reason for it; from his own words, from the words of the angels at the time of his ascension, Act 1:11, and from the writings of the apostles and they expect him not merely as a Judge, under which consideration he will be terrible to the ungodly, but as a Saviour; who as he has already saved their souls from sin, and the dreadful effects of it, from the bondage and curse of the law, from the captivity of Satan, and from eternal ruin and wrath to come, so he will save and redeem their bodies from the grave, corruption, mortality, and death, as follows.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:19 Their god is their appetite may refer to their greed, their sensuality, or their self-interest (cp. Rom 16:18). • they brag about shameful things: This is best understood as a reference to immorality rather than to pride in being circumcised. • Eternal destruction is the ultimate judgment of God for those who reject Christ and live self-centered, sinful lives (see 2 Thes 1:8-9; cp. Phil 1:28; Matt 7:13; Rom 9:22; 1 Cor 1:18; 2 Thes 2:10; 1 Tim 6:9; 2 Pet 2:3, 13; Jude 1:10; Rev 11:18). • They are unable to see beyond this life (cp. John 12:25; 1 Jn 2:15-17).
Philippians 3:19
Citizenship in Heaven
18For as I have often told you before, and now say again even with tears: Many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.19Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and their glory is in their shame. Their minds are set on earthly things.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Don't Be Fooled, the Pew Won't Save You!
By Bob Jennings3.3K05:03PHP 3:19This sermon emphasizes how skillful the devil is in deceiving people to exchange their eternal inheritance for temporary desires, leading them to waste their lives and lose their souls. It highlights the tragic consequences of being tricked out of one's soul and the importance of staying devoted to Christ amidst spiritual battles and deceptions.
New Covenant - the Root of Sin - Part 1
By Zac Poonen1.4K09:35MAT 3:2MAT 3:9ROM 8:5PHP 3:19COL 3:2This sermon delves into the essence of the New Covenant as depicted in Matthew chapter 3, emphasizing the crucial act of turning from the Kingdom of Earth to the Kingdom of Heaven to truly embrace the New Covenant. It highlights the significance of setting our minds on heavenly things while engaging with earthly responsibilities, illustrating the analogy of a rubber band to depict this balance. The sermon also underscores the importance of having a clear goal in life that aligns with heavenly purposes to distinguish between living as a sinner or a saint.
A Prisoner of Appetite Is Unhealthy Eating a Sin?
By Shane Idleman60944:02PRO 23:2PRO 23:21ISA 55:2ROM 12:11CO 6:121CO 9:271CO 10:31GAL 5:16PHP 3:19This sermon addresses the importance of taking care of our bodies and avoiding unhealthy eating habits, focusing on the struggle to resist temptations and the need to prioritize physical health for spiritual well-being. The speaker shares personal struggles with weight and emphasizes the parallel between physical and spiritual health, highlighting the impact of neglecting the body on overall well-being.
The Captivity of the Righteous Part 5
By Phil Beach Jr.301:14:39True DiscipleshipChristian LifeDevotion to GodISA 53:1MAT 6:33MAT 11:28MAT 22:37LUK 14:26JHN 12:43JHN 21:22ACT 4:32PHP 3:191PE 3:3Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of finding true satisfaction and peace in God rather than in worldly concerns, particularly for young people who often fret about their future. He encourages them to devote their hearts fully to God, assuring that if they seek Him first, everything else will fall into place. The sermon highlights the need to prioritize following Jesus over seeking the approval of others, as true discipleship requires a willingness to lay aside personal ambitions and societal pressures. Beach also addresses the dangers of being captivated by health, wealth, and family, urging believers to seek freedom from these distractions to fully embrace their relationship with Christ.
To Ministers of the Gospel of All Denominations [#1]
By Charles Finney0Spiritual RenewalUnity in the ChurchMAT 6:24ROM 12:21CO 10:31GAL 5:17EPH 4:3PHP 3:192TI 3:5HEB 12:1JAS 4:41JN 2:15Charles Finney addresses ministers of the Gospel, urging them to reflect on the current state of the Church, which he perceives as being ensnared by sensuality, materialism, and division. He highlights the detrimental effects of conformity to worldly standards and the prevalence of selfishness among believers, which undermines true piety and faith. Finney expresses concern over the Church's inefficiency in evangelism and warns that their behavior may contradict the very gospel they profess. He calls for a return to genuine faith and a focus on spiritual rather than earthly pursuits, emphasizing the need for unity among denominations. His message is a heartfelt plea for ministers to lead with humility and a commitment to the true essence of the Gospel.
To Ministers of the Gospel of All Denominations [#2]
By Charles Finney0Spiritual HealthPhysical Well-beingROM 8:6ROM 12:11CO 9:271CO 10:312CO 5:10GAL 5:24PHP 3:191TI 4:8JAS 4:71PE 2:11Charles Finney addresses ministers of the Gospel, urging them to recognize the detrimental influence of sensuality and poor physical habits on their spiritual lives and the Church. He emphasizes the connection between physical health and spiritual vitality, warning that neglecting this relationship leads to backsliding and a lack of spirituality among ministers. Finney calls for a reformation in dietetic habits and a deeper understanding of the body's influence on the mind, asserting that true spirituality cannot flourish without addressing these issues. He laments the silence of the ministry on these matters and encourages ministers to lead by example in their personal and family lives. Ultimately, he stresses the need for ministers to be aware of their influence and to uphold the principles of the Gospel in all aspects of life.
Concerning Marriages
By George Fox0Divine Guidance in MarriageThe Light of ChristMAT 19:6JHN 3:19PHP 3:19HEB 13:4George Fox emphasizes the significance of aligning marriages with the light of Christ, warning against unions formed in opposition to this divine guidance. He asserts that those who act contrary to this light are aware of their wrongdoings and face condemnation. True marriages, according to Fox, are those joined by God through His light, which should not be separated by man. He highlights that such unions are honorable and blessed, reflecting God's command and power. Ultimately, Fox calls for a commitment to the divine light in all relationships.
Epistle 29
By George Fox0True MinistryDiscernmentPSA 24:1MAL 3:10MAT 10:8MAT 10:10LUK 10:7ROM 15:272CO 11:13PHP 3:19HEB 7:241JN 4:2George Fox emphasizes the distinction between true ministers of Christ and those who misuse scripture for personal gain. He warns against supporting those who demand tithes without providing spiritual nourishment, arguing that such practices contradict Christ's teachings. Fox highlights the importance of recognizing the unchangeable priesthood of Christ and the new covenant, which frees believers from the obligations of the old priesthood. He encourages believers to support genuine ministers who preach the gospel freely, while rejecting those who exploit their positions for financial gain. Ultimately, Fox calls for discernment in spiritual matters and a commitment to Christ's doctrine.
That Is All They Have to Enjoy
By C.H. Spurgeon0Spiritual FocusThe Dangers of VanityPSA 119:37PRO 30:8ECC 1:2MAT 6:19ROM 12:22CO 4:18PHP 3:19COL 3:2JAS 4:41JN 2:15C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that true comfort for Christians cannot be found in worldly pleasures, which he refers to as vanity. He acknowledges that while ungodly individuals may seek happiness in earthly delights, Christians are called to seek joy in a higher, spiritual realm. Spurgeon illustrates this with the story of a godly wife who, recognizing her husband's spiritual state, strives to make his earthly life as pleasant as possible. He warns that indulging in vain amusements can lead to spiritual starvation and vulnerability to temptation. The sermon concludes with a heartfelt plea for divine assistance to turn away from vanity and lies.
For Toys and Trifles
By Thomas Brooks0Eternal ConsequencesValue of the SoulECC 12:14MAT 16:26MRK 8:36LUK 12:202CO 5:10PHP 3:19HEB 9:27JAS 4:141PE 1:18REV 20:15Thomas Brooks warns against the grave danger of neglecting our immortal souls in favor of worldly pleasures and trivial pursuits. He emphasizes that trading our souls for temporary satisfaction is a grave mistake, as our souls are invaluable and eternal. Brooks vividly describes the torment that awaits those who prioritize sin and the fleeting joys of this world over their relationship with God. He urges listeners to consider the eternal consequences of their choices and to seek true fulfillment in Christ rather than in trifles. Ultimately, he calls for a deep reflection on the value of the soul and the importance of making spiritual provisions.
Nothing Will Grow Where Gold Grows
By Thomas Brooks0Worldly DesiresPrioritizing ChristMAT 6:19MAT 8:34MRK 8:36LUK 12:15ROM 12:2PHP 3:19COL 3:21TI 6:10JAS 4:41JN 2:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the tragic choice of the Gergesenes, who preferred their worldly possessions over the presence of Christ, illustrating how an inordinate love for the world can lead to spiritual barrenness. He warns that when hearts are filled with worldly desires—be it wealth, pleasure, or honor—there is no room for divine growth or comfort. Brooks highlights the folly of choosing temporary gains over eternal salvation, urging believers to prioritize their relationship with Christ above all else.
Worshipers of the Golden Calf!
By Thomas Brooks0Communion with GodWorldlinessECC 1:2MAT 6:24LUK 16:19ROM 12:2PHP 3:19COL 3:21TI 6:9HEB 11:24JAS 4:41JN 2:15Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of worldliness and earthly-mindedness among professing Christians, likening them to worshipers of the golden calf. He emphasizes that the allure of the world is deceptive and ultimately leads to spiritual decay, as true fulfillment can only be found in God. Brooks illustrates that an inordinate love for worldly things can sever one's communion with God, urging believers to seek a greater glory rather than being captivated by vanity. He reminds us that the things of this world are ultimately worthless in the eyes of eternity, and that true richness comes from a relationship with God.
Feast the Slave, and Starve the Wife?
By Thomas Brooks0Soul CareEternal PerspectivePRO 4:23MAT 16:26MRK 8:36LUK 12:202CO 4:18PHP 3:19COL 3:21TI 4:8HEB 12:1JAS 1:21Thomas Brooks emphasizes the paramount importance of prioritizing the eternal welfare of our souls over earthly concerns. He argues that it is foolish to nourish the body while neglecting the soul, equating this neglect to madness. Brooks warns that those who prioritize their physical needs above their spiritual well-being risk losing everything of true value, including God and eternal glory. He urges listeners to diligently care for their souls, as true comfort in life and confidence in death hinge on this vital work.
A Hound, a Hawk, a Horse, a Harlot
By Thomas Brooks0Value of GraceWorldly vs. Spiritual PrioritiesPRO 11:28ECC 5:10MAT 6:21MAT 16:26LUK 12:15PHP 3:19COL 3:21TI 6:10JAS 4:41JN 2:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the danger of valuing worldly possessions and pleasures over the grace of God. He illustrates how many people prioritize their lusts, relationships, honors, and material wealth above their spiritual well-being. The sermon serves as a stark reminder that true fulfillment comes from valuing grace over transient earthly delights. Brooks calls for self-examination regarding what we truly cherish in our lives. Ultimately, he urges listeners to reassess their priorities and seek a deeper relationship with God.
For the Toys and Trifles of This World
By Thomas Brooks0Eternal ValueSpiritual FoolishnessMAT 16:26LUK 12:15PHP 3:19COL 3:21JN 2:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the folly of exchanging eternal spiritual treasures for temporary worldly pleasures, likening it to trading a precious pearl for a mere pin. He warns that unholy individuals, like natural fools, prioritize fleeting desires over their souls, trading away their relationship with God and the promise of heaven for trivial gains. The sermon challenges listeners to reflect on the true value of their souls and the eternal consequences of their choices.
Those Who Hunt After It Are Dogs!
By Thomas Brooks0Eternal ValueWorldly PursuitsPSA 16:11MAT 6:19MAT 16:26LUK 12:152CO 4:18PHP 3:19COL 3:2HEB 11:24JAS 4:41JN 2:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the grave danger of prioritizing worldly pleasures over the eternal soul, warning that many are so captivated by earthly delights that they risk losing their spiritual essence. He illustrates this peril with the Arabic proverb that likens those who chase after worldly gains to dogs, highlighting the folly of valuing transient, carnal satisfaction over the eternal joys found in holiness and communion with God. Brooks calls for a reevaluation of priorities, urging believers to seek the true treasures of heaven rather than the empty pursuits of this life.
A House of Fools!
By Thomas Brooks0Worldly PleasuresEternal ValuesPRO 14:12ECC 7:4MAT 6:19MAT 16:26LUK 12:15PHP 3:19COL 3:21TI 6:9JAS 4:41JN 2:15Thomas Brooks warns against the folly of prioritizing worldly pleasures over eternal values, emphasizing that the heart of fools is consumed by trivial pursuits rather than the salvation of their souls. He illustrates this with the example of foolish people who value insignificant items over great treasures, highlighting the absurdity of neglecting spiritual concerns for temporary gains. Brooks calls for reflection on how many live as if the world is a house of fools, chasing after fleeting honors and riches while ignoring the eternal significance of their choices.
Pythagorus Three Classes of Humanity
By A.W. Tozer0Pursuit of KnowledgeMotivation in LifePRO 1:7PRO 22:1ECC 1:18MAT 6:1LUK 12:15PHP 3:19COL 3:21TI 6:10JAS 4:31JN 2:15A.W. Tozer explores Pythagoras' classification of humanity into three groups: seekers after knowledge, honor, and gain. He critiques modern society, noting that seekers of knowledge have become scholars and scientists obsessed with accumulating information, while seekers of honor are likened to politicians who crave public recognition and manipulate public sentiment for votes. Lastly, he addresses seekers of gain, contrasting honest businessmen with those who engage in illegal activities, highlighting a moral equivalence between them despite their social differences. Tozer's sermon challenges listeners to reflect on their own pursuits and the motivations behind them.
Blurred Goals and Spiritual Impediments
By A.W. Tozer0Spiritual ConflictDual OrientationMAT 6:24ROM 12:22CO 6:14GAL 5:17EPH 4:14PHP 3:19COL 3:2HEB 12:1JAS 1:81JN 2:15A.W. Tozer addresses the troubling state of evangelicalism, likening it to a patient with an undiagnosed illness. He identifies a spiritual disorder characterized by dual orientation, where individuals struggle to align their life purpose with their faith. This internal conflict leads to a disconnection between their beliefs and actions, resulting in a divided focus between God and worldly interests. Tozer emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of this spiritual malaise, as many are caught between two conflicting values, ultimately hindering their spiritual growth and effectiveness.
The Important Question
By John Wesley0Choice of LifeEternal ValueMAT 16:26MRK 8:36LUK 12:15ROM 14:172CO 4:18PHP 3:191TI 6:9JAS 4:141JN 2:15REV 20:15John Wesley emphasizes the profound question posed by Jesus in Matthew 16:26, urging listeners to consider the futility of gaining worldly riches at the expense of their souls. He explores the implications of 'gaining the whole world'—pleasures, honors, and wealth—contrasting it with the devastating loss of one's soul, which leads to eternal separation from God. Wesley argues that true happiness is found in a life of love and faith, rather than in worldly pursuits, and he challenges his audience to make a conscious choice for eternal life over temporary gains. He concludes with a passionate call to choose life and adhere to that choice, promising a crown of righteousness for those who persevere in faith.
Denying Ungodliness
By A.B. Simpson0Self-DenialConsecrationMAT 16:24LUK 9:23ROM 13:141CO 6:19GAL 5:24PHP 3:19COL 3:22TI 2:12JAS 4:71JN 2:15A.B. Simpson emphasizes the necessity of denying ungodliness by rejecting the flesh, the world, and self-love, advocating for a life of holy self-denial that is essential for obedience to God. He highlights that true faith involves a significant commitment to say 'yes' to God while simultaneously saying 'no' to earthly desires and selfishness. Simpson points out that many commandments are framed as prohibitions, illustrating that love often manifests in what it does not do. The essence of consecration lies in recognizing that we do not belong to ourselves but to God alone, reinforcing the call to live a life dedicated to Him.
1 Corinthians 6:12
By St. John Chrysostom0PHP 3:19John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of self-control and moderation, emphasizing that while all things may be lawful, not all things are expedient or beneficial. He warns against being enslaved by desires such as gluttony, which can lead to other sins like fornication. Chrysostom encourages believers to avoid excess and not allow themselves to be controlled by their appetites, highlighting the need to maintain mastery over one's actions and not be enslaved by indulgence.
Step 14 on the Clamorous , Yet Wicked Master-the Stomach.
By St. John Climacus0PRO 23:20ECC 6:71CO 10:31GAL 5:16PHP 3:19St. John Climacus delivers a sermon on the dangers of gluttony, highlighting how it leads to hypocrisy, excess, and a lack of self-control. He emphasizes the importance of mortifying the stomach to achieve purity and spiritual enrichment, contrasting the monk's focus on food with the servant of God's pursuit of grace. St. John warns against the temptations of the stomach, urging believers to master their desires and practice temperance to avoid falling into the traps of gluttony and fornication.
A Messenger of Peace
By Derek Prince0PRO 6:12MAT 7:152CO 11:13PHP 3:191JN 4:1Derek Prince warns against individuals who use deceitful tactics to manipulate and persuade others for their own selfish gain, emphasizing the importance of discerning the true motives behind people's actions. He highlights the destructive consequences that await those who engage in such behavior, as they will ultimately face judgment and sudden destruction without remedy. Prince urges listeners to be cautious of those who do not bring the peace of God with them, as their words and actions may be driven by ulterior motives rather than genuine care for others.
Fool Away Their Souls
By Thomas Brooks0Prioritizing Spiritual WealthEternal SalvationECC 5:10MAT 6:19MAT 19:21MRK 8:36LUK 12:152CO 4:18PHP 3:191TI 6:17HEB 12:1JAS 4:14Thomas Brooks emphasizes the critical choice presented by Christ to the young man in the Gospel, who was offered eternal treasures in exchange for his earthly possessions. Despite the promise of heavenly rewards, the young man chose to prioritize his temporary wealth, ultimately missing out on salvation. Brooks warns that many people today similarly squander their time and opportunities for eternal life, choosing fleeting pleasures over lasting fulfillment. The sermon serves as a call to recognize the value of spiritual over material wealth and to seize the opportunities for salvation before they slip away.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whose end is destruction - This is the issue of their doctrine and of their conduct. They are here described by three characters: 1. Their god is their belly - they live not in any reference to eternity; their religion is for time; they make a gain of godliness; and live only to eat, drink, and be merry. 2. Their glory is in their shame - they lay it down as a proof of their address, that they can fare sumptuously every day, in consequence of preaching a doctrine which flatters the passions of their hearers. 3. They mind earthly things - their whole study and attention are taken up with earthly matters; they are given to the flesh and its lusts; they have no spirituality, nor do they believe that there is or can be any intercourse between God and the souls of men. But their lasciviousness and uncleanness seem to be principally intended. See Kypke. Despicable as these men were, the apostle's heart was deeply pained on their account: 1. Because they held and taught a false creed; 2. Because they perverted many by that teaching; and, 3. Because they themselves were perishing through it.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
destruction--everlasting at Christ's coming. Phi 1:28, "perdition"; the opposite word is "Saviour" (Phi 3:20). end--fixed doom. whose god is their belly-- (Rom 16:18); hereafter to be destroyed by God (Co1 6:13). In contrast to our "body" (Phi 3:21), which our God, the Lord Jesus, shall "fashion like unto His glorious body." Their belly is now pampered, our body now wasted; then the respective states of both shall be reversed. glory is in their shame--As "glory" is often used in the Old Testament for God (Psa 106:20), so here it answers to "whose God," in the parallel clause; and "shame" is the Old Testament term contemptuously given to an idol (Jdg 6:32, Margin). Hos 4:7 seems to be referred to by Paul (compare Rom 1:32). There seems no allusion to circumcision, as no longer glorious, but a shame to them (Phi 3:2). The reference of the immediate context is to sensuality, and carnality in general. mind earthly things-- (Rom 8:5). In contrast to Phi 3:20; Col 3:2.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For our conversation is in heaven,.... The Ethiopic version renders it, "we have our city in heaven"; and the words may be truly rendered, "our citizenship is in heaven"; that is, the city whereof we are freemen is heaven, and we behave ourselves here below, as citizens of that city above: heaven is the saints' city; here they have no continuing city, but they seek one to come, which is permanent and durable; a city that has foundations, whose builder and maker is God, Heb 11:10, as yet they are not in it, though fellow citizens of the saints, and of the household of God; they are pilgrims, strangers, and sojourners on earth, Lev 25:23; but are seeking a better country, an heavenly one, and God has prepared for them a city, Heb 11:16; they have a right unto it through the grace of God, and righteousness of Christ, and a meetness for it in him; and their conversation is here beforehand, while their commoration, or temporary residence, is below; their thoughts are often employed about it; their affections are set upon it, Col 3:2; their hearts are where their treasure is, Mat 6:21; the desires of their souls are towards it, and they are seeking things above, and long to be in their own city, and Father's house, where Christ is; and to be at home with him, and for ever with him. This is the work and business of their lives now, and what their hearts are engaged in. The Syriac version renders it, "our work is in heaven"; the business, the exercise of our lives, and of our graces, tend that way: from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ; Christ is now in heaven, at the Father's right hand, Act 2:33, appearing in the presence of God for his people, and making intercession for them, Heb 7:25; and so will remain, until the time of the restitution of all things; when he will descend from heaven, and be revealed from thence: and this the saints look for, and expect; they have good reason for it; from his own words, from the words of the angels at the time of his ascension, Act 1:11, and from the writings of the apostles and they expect him not merely as a Judge, under which consideration he will be terrible to the ungodly, but as a Saviour; who as he has already saved their souls from sin, and the dreadful effects of it, from the bondage and curse of the law, from the captivity of Satan, and from eternal ruin and wrath to come, so he will save and redeem their bodies from the grave, corruption, mortality, and death, as follows.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:19 Their god is their appetite may refer to their greed, their sensuality, or their self-interest (cp. Rom 16:18). • they brag about shameful things: This is best understood as a reference to immorality rather than to pride in being circumcised. • Eternal destruction is the ultimate judgment of God for those who reject Christ and live self-centered, sinful lives (see 2 Thes 1:8-9; cp. Phil 1:28; Matt 7:13; Rom 9:22; 1 Cor 1:18; 2 Thes 2:10; 1 Tim 6:9; 2 Pet 2:3, 13; Jude 1:10; Rev 11:18). • They are unable to see beyond this life (cp. John 12:25; 1 Jn 2:15-17).