Philippians 3:15,16– Following the same rule

Whoever, then, are mature, may be disposed to this, and if in anything you are differently disposed, this also shall God reveal to you. Moreover, in what we outstrip others, there is to be a mutual disposition to be observing the elements by the same rule.

It is striking that Paul here speaks of himself and others being “mature” , perfected, while a few verses earlier (:12) he denied that he was already perfect. That seems contradictory, but it is only apparent. In verse 12, Paul is referring to the perfection he will attain in the resurrection from the dead. In verse 15, on the other hand, he refers to ‘maturity’ or ‘maturity’ as the Greek word (teleios) is often translated (1Cor.14:20; Eph.4:13; Heb.5:14). “To be perfect” here indicates a mature disposition. It is the disposition as described before: forgetting all achievements, pride, and own works, and stretching forward to the target of what God has prepared above in Christ Jesus. As far as we got there , we would continue that rule.

And if some of his readers do not have this disposition? Paul confides in GOD who will reveal it Himself to them in due time. If my words prove insufficient, what can I do better than to surrender everything to Him with peace of mind?!

Delen: