Philippians 3:21
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who shall change our vile body - Ὁς μετασχηματισει το σωμα της ταπεινωσες ἡμων· Who will refashion, or alter the fashion and condition of, the body of our humiliation; this body that is dead - adjudged to death because of sin, and must be putrefied, dissolved, and decomposed. That it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body - Εις το γενεσθαι αυτο συμμορφον τῳ σωματι της δοξης αυτου· That it may bear a similar form to the body of his glory. That is: the bodies of true believers shall be raised up at the great day in the same likeness, immortality, and glory, of the glorified humanity of Jesus Christ; and be so thoroughly changed, as to be not only capable through their immortality of eternally existing, but also of the infinite spiritual enjoyments at the right hand of God. According to the working - Κατα την ενεργειαν· According to that energy, by which he can bring all things under subjection to himself. Thus we find that the resurrection of the body is attributed to that power which governs and subdues all things, for nothing less than the energy that produced the human body at the beginning, can restore it from its lapsed and degraded state into that state of glory which it had at its creation, and render it capable of enjoying God throughout eternity. The thought of this glorious consummation was a subject of the highest joy and confidence amongst the primitive Christian. This earth was not their home; and they passed through things temporal so as not to lose those which were eternal. 1. The preceding chapter, to which the first verse of the succeeding should be joined, contains a fund of matter the most interesting that can well be conceived. The apostle seems to stand on the verge of eternity, and to have both worlds opened to his view. The one he sees to be the place in which a preparation for the other is to be attained. In the one he sees the starting place, where the Christian is to commence his race; in the other the goal at which his course terminates, and the prize which he is there to obtain. One is the place from and over which the Christian is to run; the other is that to which he is to direct his course, and in which he is to receive infinite blessedness. In the one he sees all manner of temptations and hinderances, and dangers standing thick through all the ground; in the other he sees the forerunner, the Lord Jesus, who has entered into the heaven of heavens for him, through whom God calls him from above, της ανω κλησεως του Θεου, Phi 3:14 : for what he hears in the Gospel, and what he sees by faith, is the calling of God from above; and therefore he departs from this, for this is not his rest. 2. The nearer a faithful soul comes to the verge of eternity, the more the light and influence of heaven are poured out upon it: time and life are fast sinking away into the shades of death and darkness; and the effulgence of the dawning glory of the eternal world is beginning to illustrate the blessed state of the genuine Christian, and to render clear and intelligible those counsels of God, partly displayed in various inextricable providences, and partly revealed and seen as through a glass darkly in his own sacred word. Unutterable glories now begin to burst forth; pains, afflictions, persecutions, wants, distresses, sickness, and death, in any or all of its forms, are exhibited as the way to the kingdom, and as having in the order of God an ineffable glory for their result. Here are the wisdom, power, and mercy of God! Here, the patience, perseverance, and glory of the saints! Reader, is not earth and its concerns lost in the effulgence of this glory? Arise and depart, for this is not thy rest.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Greek, "Who shall transfigure the body of our humiliation (namely, in which our humiliation has place, Co2 4:10; Eph 2:19; Ti2 2:12), that it may be conformed unto the body of His glory (namely, in which His glory is manifested), according to the effectual working whereby," &c. Not only shall He come as our "Saviour," but also as our Glorifier. even--not only to make the body like His own, but "to subdue all things," even death itself, as well as Satan and sin. He gave a sample of the coming transfiguration on the mount (Mat 17:1, &c.). Not a change of identity, but of fashion or form (Psa 17:15; Co1 15:51). Our spiritual resurrection now is the pledge of our bodily resurrection to glory hereafter (Phi 3:20; Rom 8:11). As Christ's glorified body was essentially identical with His body of humiliation; so our resurrection bodies as believers, since they shall be like His, shall be identical essentially with our present bodies, and yet "spiritual bodies" (Co1 15:42-44). Our "hope" is, that Christ, by His rising from the dead, hath obtained the power, and is become the pattern, of our resurrection (Mic 2:13). Next: Philippians Chapter 4
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:21 change them into glorious bodies: See 1 Cor 15:42-54; cp. Rom 8:23. • he will bring everything under his control: See 1 Cor 15:24-27.
Philippians 3:21
Citizenship in Heaven
20But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,21who, by the power that enables Him to subject all things to Himself, will transform our lowly bodies to be like His glorious body.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
"Hey Buddy I'm Glad You Died for Me"
By Leonard Ravenhill6.4K00:20PHP 3:21This sermon emphasizes the awe-inspiring encounter with Jesus, highlighting the overwhelming sense of reverence and fear that will accompany seeing Him face to face. It underscores the need for a transformed, glorified body and mind to withstand the presence of Jesus, contrasting the casual attitude often portrayed in songs and popular culture with the profound reality of encountering the Savior.
God Is Able
By Hans R. Waldvogel2.9K19:00Ability Of GodJHN 20:29ROM 4:171CO 10:132CO 5:72CO 9:8EPH 3:20PHP 3:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing God and His ability to fulfill His promises. He encourages the audience to have faith and trust in God, even when they may not feel like it. The preacher highlights the power of Jesus and the wonders of the faith life. He reminds the listeners that God is able to keep them from stumbling and present them spotless before His glory. The sermon emphasizes the abundance of God's grace and His ability to meet all their needs.
Multitudes in the Valley of Decision
By Charles E. Fuller1.6K50:15DecisionPSA 46:7PSA 87:3JOL 3:14PHP 3:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of accepting Jesus Christ as one's personal Savior. He warns that those who do not believe in the name of the Son of God are already condemned and will face the wrath of God. The preacher urges the audience to come to Christ while the door of grace is still open. The sermon also references the prophecy of Joel, highlighting the significance of the end-time events leading up to the Second Coming of Christ.
The Final Harvest of the Dead - Risen!
By Michael Flowers16119:45ResurrectionGEN 1:27GEN 2:7PSA 42:1MAT 13:371CO 15:35PHP 2:15PHP 3:21In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of hope in relation to the resurrection of the dead. He emphasizes that faith, hope, and love are essential, and that optimism is not the same as hope. The preacher uses various analogies, such as plant life and the image of kale, to illustrate the restoration of the perfect image and likeness of God in believers. He also delves into the topic of the resurrection of the dead, describing it as the final harvest and the restoration of our bodies. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the daily sacrifice and surrender of our lives in Christ.
05 the Beauty of the Bride (Song 1:15; 4:7)
By Mike Bickle2453:08The Beauty of GodIdentity in ChristPSA 149:4SNG 1:15SNG 4:7ISA 61:3MAL 3:17MAT 10:42JHN 3:2EPH 1:4PHP 3:211PE 3:4Mike Bickle emphasizes the profound beauty of the bride, representing the people of God, as depicted in the Song of Solomon. He explains that God sees His people as beautiful and beloved, regardless of their flaws, and that this beauty is rooted in His grace and love. Bickle encourages believers to embrace their identity as beautiful in God's eyes and to reject the lies of the enemy that suggest otherwise. He highlights the transformative power of recognizing one's beauty in Christ, which leads to a deeper relationship with God and a more fulfilling life. Ultimately, he reassures that this beauty is eternal and will be fully realized in the resurrection.
The Beauty of God in Our Resurrected Body
By Mike Bickle2440:07ResurrectionBeauty of GodPSA 90:17ISA 61:3DAN 12:3MAT 13:43ROM 8:181CO 15:42PHP 3:211PE 3:41JN 3:2REV 21:4Mike Bickle emphasizes the beauty of God as reflected in our resurrected bodies, highlighting that this beauty encompasses both internal qualities like humility and love, and external attributes that will be fully realized in the resurrection. He explains that our resurrected bodies will be transformed, incorruptible, and will possess enhanced abilities, allowing us to experience and express beauty in a new, profound way. Bickle encourages believers to embrace their identity as 'sons of the resurrection,' which serves as an anchor amidst life's challenges, reminding them of their glorious future. He underscores that the beauty we seek is rooted in God's nature and will be fully manifested in the age to come, where we will enjoy eternal fellowship with Him and each other.
The Hope of Heaven and the Resurrection
By Mike Bickle2250:22Hope of HeavenResurrectionLUK 20:36LUK 24:39JHN 14:21CO 15:20EPH 1:9PHP 3:21HEB 6:191JN 3:2REV 21:2REV 22:1Mike Bickle emphasizes the profound hope of heaven and the resurrection, urging believers to anchor their identity in being 'sons of the resurrection.' He shares a touching account of Martha Stevens, a faithful believer on her deathbed, who experiences the joy and peace of dying, revealing glimpses of the heavenly realm. Bickle highlights the importance of understanding our future resurrection and the physicality of heaven, encouraging believers to live in light of this reality. He reassures that our resurrected bodies will be like Christ's, filled with glory and purpose, and that our actions in this life have eternal significance. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of our eternal home and the joy that awaits us.
Epistle 239
By George Fox0Faith and PerseveranceVictory in ChristGEN 4:3JER 17:5DAN 3:1ACT 4:12ROM 8:381CO 9:24PHP 3:21HEB 11:8HEB 12:1REV 17:14George Fox emphasizes the importance of patience and faith in Christ, the Lamb who was slain from the foundation of the world, as the source of victory over trials and tribulations. He recounts the sufferings of biblical figures like Abraham, Moses, and Daniel, who remained steadfast in their faith despite persecution, illustrating that true believers will face opposition from those who are not in the spirit. Fox encourages his listeners to stand firm in God's power, which transcends worldly struggles and false worship, and to rejoice in the coming triumph of God's kingdom. He reminds them that the true church will rise, while false prophets and institutions will fall, urging them to remain united in the name of Jesus for salvation. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the power of God that brings freedom and victory over darkness.
Our Daily Homily - Philippians
By F.B. Meyer0Trust in God's ProvisionSufferingISA 41:10MAT 11:28JHN 16:33ROM 8:182CO 1:5PHP 1:29PHP 2:26PHP 3:21PHP 4:61PE 5:7F.B. Meyer emphasizes the significance of suffering in the life of a believer, illustrating how it serves as a powerful testament to the reality of faith when endured with grace. He encourages Christians to view suffering as a divine gift that fosters deep communion with God and equips them to minister to others in pain. Meyer highlights the importance of maintaining a spirit of gratitude even in hardship, as well as the transformative power of Christ to subdue our struggles and anxieties. He reassures believers that God is attentive to their needs and will provide peace amidst life's challenges. Ultimately, Meyer calls for a prayerful and thankful attitude, trusting in God's provision and care.
Behold, He Cometh (Communion: He Comes to Fill Us With His Love and Make Us Like himself.)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Transformation through LoveThe Return of ChristMAT 25:6ROM 5:5ROM 6:141CO 15:522CO 5:17EPH 3:20PHP 3:21HEB 10:261PE 2:9REV 1:7Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the imminent return of Christ, urging believers to prepare their hearts to receive His love and transformation. He reflects on the significance of being changed into the likeness of Christ at His coming, contrasting the joy of believers with the wailing of those who reject Him. Waldvogel encourages the congregation to open their hearts to the Holy Spirit, allowing God's love to fill them and empower them to live righteously. He stresses the importance of repentance and the call to live as a kingdom of priests, dedicated to serving God and spreading His love. Ultimately, he reminds the audience that Jesus desires not only to save but to make them partakers of His divine nature.
1 John 3:2
By John Gill0Identity in ChristHope Of GloryMAT 5:8ROM 8:171CO 13:122CO 5:1PHP 3:21COL 3:4HEB 9:281PE 1:41JN 3:2REV 21:4John Gill expounds on 1 John 3:2, emphasizing the profound truth that believers are currently the sons of God through adoption and regeneration, though their full glory is yet to be revealed. He explains that while they may not appear as such in this life, a future revelation awaits when Christ returns, transforming them into His likeness and granting them the inheritance of eternal glory. Gill highlights the hidden nature of their current existence, marked by struggles and trials, yet assures that their future state will be one of perfect holiness and joy in the presence of Christ. The sermon encourages believers to hold onto the hope of their future transformation and the ultimate vision of Christ. Gill reassures that this promise is certain, even if it is not yet visible to the world or even to themselves.
Dirt, Handsomely Fashioned
By Thomas Brooks0MortalityHumilityGEN 3:19PSA 103:14ECC 3:202CO 5:1PHP 3:21Thomas Brooks emphasizes the transient nature of human life, reminding us that our bodies, though beautifully made, are ultimately composed of dust and destined to return to it. He reflects on the biblical truth that we labor throughout our lives, yet our physical forms are merely vessels, often referred to in unflattering terms. This perspective encourages humility and a deeper understanding of our mortality, urging us to focus on the spiritual rather than the physical.
Of the Omnipotence of God.
By John Gill0Omnipotence of GodTrust in God's PowerGEN 17:1PSA 62:11MAT 28:18LUK 1:37JHN 5:28ROM 1:20EPH 3:20PHP 3:211PE 1:5REV 1:8John Gill emphasizes the omnipotence of God, asserting that His power is inherent to His nature and essential for His divine attributes. He explains that God's omnipotence is evident in creation, providence, redemption, and the perseverance of believers, highlighting that nothing is impossible for God. Gill argues that God's power is absolute and unbounded, and that it is crucial for the fulfillment of His promises and the execution of His will. He also notes that while God cannot act contrary to His nature, this does not limit His omnipotence but rather affirms it. Ultimately, Gill's sermon serves to inspire awe and trust in God's limitless power.
An Ark of Acacia Wood
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Supremacy of ChristOld Testament TypologyJHN 8:46ACT 2:24ACT 2:27PHP 3:21HEB 9:3T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the greatness and glory of Jesus Christ, illustrating this through the symbolism of the ark of the covenant in the Old Testament. He explains that the ark represents God's supremacy and the unique nature of Christ, who embodies the holiness, power, and grace of God. Sparks highlights the importance of understanding Old Testament typology in relation to the New Testament, asserting that the ark serves as a type of Christ, who is incorruptible and sinless. The sermon encourages believers to recognize the significance of the covenant and testimony that God has established with humanity through Christ. Ultimately, the message points to the hope of resurrection and transformation into the likeness of Christ.
The Exaltation of Christ, With His Present State and Condition in Glory During the Continuance of His Mediatory Office
By John Owen0Mediatory OfficeExaltation of ChristJHN 17:241CO 15:242CO 3:18EPH 1:10EPH 2:14PHP 3:211TI 3:16HEB 7:251JN 2:1REV 5:9John Owen emphasizes the exaltation of Christ and His current state in glory as central to the Christian faith. He explains that Christ's ascension into heaven signifies His mediatory office, where He reigns with sovereign power and continues to intercede for the church. Owen highlights that the glory of Christ's human nature is unique and distinct from that of the saints, as it is eternally united with the divine. The sermon underscores the importance of understanding Christ's present role in heaven, which is foundational for the church's hope and consolation. Ultimately, believers are called to behold and contemplate the glory of God as revealed in Christ, which is essential for their faith and spiritual growth.
Its Present Bearing on Life
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual AscendencyHoly AmbitionEXO 15:17PSA 2:6PSA 24:3PSA 87:3ISA 14:14PHP 3:8PHP 3:21HEB 12:22REV 14:1REV 14:4T. Austin-Sparks explores the profound question of who can ascend to the hill of the Lord, emphasizing that this hill symbolizes the spiritual position of Christ's absolute lordship. He explains that Zion represents not just a physical location but a spiritual reality where believers experience divine life and ascendency over worldly influences. Sparks highlights the necessity of allowing God's implanted life to work within us, leading to spiritual growth and transformation. He warns against the subtle distractions of ambition and popularity that can derail spiritual progress, urging believers to seek a holy ambition rooted in selflessness. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of Zion as the culmination of God's redemptive purpose in our lives.
The Issues of Love
By T. Austin-Sparks0Overcoming Through LoveThe Power of LovePSA 25:14MAT 3:17JHN 1:4ROM 5:51CO 15:50EPH 3:18PHP 3:211PE 5:10REV 2:7REV 3:21T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the centrality of love in the Christian life, illustrating that all spiritual issues hinge on the quality of love we exhibit. He discusses how love, particularly the love of God, is foundational to experiencing fullness of life, overcoming death, and achieving spiritual authority. Each of the seven churches in Revelation is addressed with the call to overcome through love, highlighting the transformative power of love in our relationship with God and others. Sparks concludes that the ultimate goal of our faith is to embody this love, which leads to eternal significance and union with Christ. The sermon serves as a reminder that love is not merely an emotion but a vital force that shapes our spiritual destiny.
John 11 and 12.
By T. Austin-Sparks0ResurrectionGlory Of GodPSA 133:1JHN 11:25JHN 11:40JHN 12:23ROM 6:41CO 15:542CO 5:17EPH 1:12PHP 3:21REV 21:11T. Austin-Sparks explores the profound themes of glory and resurrection in John 11 and 12, emphasizing that the glory of God is revealed through the satisfaction of His nature, particularly in the context of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. He illustrates how death represents the enemy of God's purpose and glory, and how Lazarus symbolizes both Israel's condition and the broader human plight. The sermon highlights that true glory comes from recognizing our need for resurrection through Christ, who embodies the hope of new life. Sparks concludes that the ultimate expression of God's glory is found in the resurrection, which transforms individual lives and creates a collective worship experience among believers.
The Crown of the Incorruptible
By T. Austin-Sparks0Incorruptible GloryUnion with ChristJHN 1:14ACT 7:21CO 2:8EPH 1:17PHP 3:21COL 1:27HEB 2:91PE 1:41PE 4:142PE 1:16T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the crown of the incorruptible is glory, which is the ultimate verdict on the life of Jesus Christ. He explains that this glory is rooted in an unshakeable union with the Father, and that humanity was created for glory, which is contingent upon faith and obedience. The sermon highlights the contrast between the corruptible glory sought by man and the incorruptible glory offered through Christ, who embodies the perfect pattern of glory. Sparks encourages believers to live according to the incorruptible life of Christ, which leads to true glory both now and in eternity.
Contemplation of Jesus
By Alan Redpath0Contemplation of ChristTransformationMAT 26:39MAT 27:46JHN 1:14ROM 12:22CO 2:142CO 3:182CO 5:21GAL 2:20PHP 3:21HEB 12:2Alan Redpath reflects on the profound glory of Jesus, emphasizing His total abandonment to God's will, His deep compassion for the needy, and the transformative power of His sacrifice. He describes how contemplating Jesus reveals a life of contentment and triumph over sin, encouraging believers to gaze upon Christ to experience true transformation. Redpath highlights the marks of the cross on Jesus and how they signify redemption for humanity, leading to a deeper spiritual reality that changes lives. He urges listeners to surrender their struggles and allow Jesus to transform them into His likeness, promising that this journey of change is a lifelong process culminating in perfection in heaven.
The Incarnation of the Son of God
By Olin Alfred Curtis0JHN 1:14JHN 14:9PHP 2:5PHP 3:21HEB 2:17Olin Alfred Curtis preaches on the doctrine of the Incarnation, emphasizing the Son of God becoming man for the redemption of humanity. He discusses the importance of starting with the Son of God in the glory of the Godhead, highlighting Jesus Christ as God become man. Curtis delves into the significance of the virgin birth in the Incarnation, addressing its inherent fitness and connection to the miraculous nature of the Incarnation itself. He explores the humiliation of the Kenosis, focusing on Saint Paul's teachings and the deep theological implications of Jesus' self-emptying and taking on the form of a servant. Curtis also examines the ethical and moral aspects of Christ's sacrifice, the reality of his temptation, and the authority of Jesus Christ, shedding light on the complexity of his divine and human natures.
The Resurrection of the Body
By Olin Alfred Curtis0ROM 8:231CO 15:352CO 5:2PHP 3:211JN 3:2Olin Alfred Curtis emphasizes the importance of understanding the doctrine of the resurrection in eschatology, focusing on the positive process of redemption and the completion of the redeemed man through the resurrection of the body. He rejects various misconceptions about the resurrection, highlighting that it is a purely spiritual body made by God's direct intention, conditioned by the body of the grave, and a repetition of the earthly body with splendid additions. Curtis draws from Saint Paul's analogy of the seed-process to explain the resurrection and stresses the social and structural significance of the glorified body in maintaining personal identity and union with Christ.
God's Great Purpose in Suffering, Trial and Pain
By Phil Beach Jr.0DEU 30:20ROM 8:181CO 15:46PHP 3:21Phil Beach Jr. preaches on the purpose of God for humanity, emphasizing the transition from being a 'natural' man to becoming a 'spiritual' being as intended by God. He highlights the futility and frustration that comes from living on a natural basis rather than growing spiritually. Beach discusses how suffering is used by the Lord to remove falsehood in us and make way for the truth found in Christ, ultimately leading to a humanity conformed to the image of God's Son.
The Resurrection of the Dead
By H.J. Vine0JHN 11:4JHN 11:25ROM 1:1ROM 8:291CO 15:121CO 15:542CO 5:1PHP 3:21REV 1:18H.J. Vine preaches on the significance of Jesus Christ being declared as the Son of God with power through His resurrection from the dead, emphasizing the importance of this truth for believers' faith and assurance. The sermon delves into the profound implications of Christ's resurrection, highlighting how it confirms His identity as the Son of God and the Resurrection and the Life. It challenges believers to firmly hold onto the truth of resurrection, which is foundational to the Christian faith and essential for understanding God's power and glory.
The Resurrection Proved
By H.J. Vine0ISA 50:8ROM 8:34ROM 10:91CO 15:5PHP 3:21H.J. Vine preaches on the undeniable resurrection of Christ, emphasizing the multitude of witnesses who saw Him after His resurrection, including Cephas, the twelve apostles, over 500 brethren, James, and all the apostles, leaving no room for doubt. The resurrection of Christ serves as His justification, overturning the wrongful judgment and treatment He received from men, as God raised Him to declare Him the Just One and the Son of God. This resurrection also secures the believers' justification, ensuring no condemnation for those who are in Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Who shall change our vile body - Ὁς μετασχηματισει το σωμα της ταπεινωσες ἡμων· Who will refashion, or alter the fashion and condition of, the body of our humiliation; this body that is dead - adjudged to death because of sin, and must be putrefied, dissolved, and decomposed. That it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body - Εις το γενεσθαι αυτο συμμορφον τῳ σωματι της δοξης αυτου· That it may bear a similar form to the body of his glory. That is: the bodies of true believers shall be raised up at the great day in the same likeness, immortality, and glory, of the glorified humanity of Jesus Christ; and be so thoroughly changed, as to be not only capable through their immortality of eternally existing, but also of the infinite spiritual enjoyments at the right hand of God. According to the working - Κατα την ενεργειαν· According to that energy, by which he can bring all things under subjection to himself. Thus we find that the resurrection of the body is attributed to that power which governs and subdues all things, for nothing less than the energy that produced the human body at the beginning, can restore it from its lapsed and degraded state into that state of glory which it had at its creation, and render it capable of enjoying God throughout eternity. The thought of this glorious consummation was a subject of the highest joy and confidence amongst the primitive Christian. This earth was not their home; and they passed through things temporal so as not to lose those which were eternal. 1. The preceding chapter, to which the first verse of the succeeding should be joined, contains a fund of matter the most interesting that can well be conceived. The apostle seems to stand on the verge of eternity, and to have both worlds opened to his view. The one he sees to be the place in which a preparation for the other is to be attained. In the one he sees the starting place, where the Christian is to commence his race; in the other the goal at which his course terminates, and the prize which he is there to obtain. One is the place from and over which the Christian is to run; the other is that to which he is to direct his course, and in which he is to receive infinite blessedness. In the one he sees all manner of temptations and hinderances, and dangers standing thick through all the ground; in the other he sees the forerunner, the Lord Jesus, who has entered into the heaven of heavens for him, through whom God calls him from above, της ανω κλησεως του Θεου, Phi 3:14 : for what he hears in the Gospel, and what he sees by faith, is the calling of God from above; and therefore he departs from this, for this is not his rest. 2. The nearer a faithful soul comes to the verge of eternity, the more the light and influence of heaven are poured out upon it: time and life are fast sinking away into the shades of death and darkness; and the effulgence of the dawning glory of the eternal world is beginning to illustrate the blessed state of the genuine Christian, and to render clear and intelligible those counsels of God, partly displayed in various inextricable providences, and partly revealed and seen as through a glass darkly in his own sacred word. Unutterable glories now begin to burst forth; pains, afflictions, persecutions, wants, distresses, sickness, and death, in any or all of its forms, are exhibited as the way to the kingdom, and as having in the order of God an ineffable glory for their result. Here are the wisdom, power, and mercy of God! Here, the patience, perseverance, and glory of the saints! Reader, is not earth and its concerns lost in the effulgence of this glory? Arise and depart, for this is not thy rest.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Greek, "Who shall transfigure the body of our humiliation (namely, in which our humiliation has place, Co2 4:10; Eph 2:19; Ti2 2:12), that it may be conformed unto the body of His glory (namely, in which His glory is manifested), according to the effectual working whereby," &c. Not only shall He come as our "Saviour," but also as our Glorifier. even--not only to make the body like His own, but "to subdue all things," even death itself, as well as Satan and sin. He gave a sample of the coming transfiguration on the mount (Mat 17:1, &c.). Not a change of identity, but of fashion or form (Psa 17:15; Co1 15:51). Our spiritual resurrection now is the pledge of our bodily resurrection to glory hereafter (Phi 3:20; Rom 8:11). As Christ's glorified body was essentially identical with His body of humiliation; so our resurrection bodies as believers, since they shall be like His, shall be identical essentially with our present bodies, and yet "spiritual bodies" (Co1 15:42-44). Our "hope" is, that Christ, by His rising from the dead, hath obtained the power, and is become the pattern, of our resurrection (Mic 2:13). Next: Philippians Chapter 4
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:21 change them into glorious bodies: See 1 Cor 15:42-54; cp. Rom 8:23. • he will bring everything under his control: See 1 Cor 15:24-27.