From the heart of Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D.

To all of my brothers and sisters in Christ, please allow me to speak to you! The apostle Paul spoke these words, “Not that I have already grasped it all or have already become perfect, but I press on if I may also take hold of that for which I was even taken hold of by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:12). What does Philippians 3:12 mean? Paul has just spoken about his future death and resurrection with Christ. Someday, he will be made complete and perfect before the Lord (Philippians 3:10–11). He begins a new section in this verse, starting with an important qualifying statement. Paul does not want you and me to think he saw himself as perfect and sinless. He is very clear that his life is a work in progress (see Romans 7). Paul has not yet been made like Jesus, in a glorified and resurrected body, which means he’s not yet reached the point of being without sin. This accomplishment is something which only happens when we are perfected in heaven. However, instead of claiming to be perfect now, Paul continues to pursue becoming more like Christ. Becoming more like Jesus is not a moment to achieve, but a goal to pursue. Paul knows he would never be perfect in this world, but instead made it his ambition to become increasingly like Christ in this life. Getting to know God more deeply doesn’t happen overnight; it takes time. Paul had known Christ for many years when he said his passion was to know Christ better. Nor is getting to know Jesus better an automatic process; it takes real effort. Is effort contrary to grace? No, it’s not! Grace is opposed to earning but not to effort. Effort is a vital part of how grace operates in becoming more Christ-like. In Philippians 3:12—4:1, Paul explains the proper attitude we ought to have on the gradual, life-long process of becoming more Christ-like. Our place in eternity is secure from the moment we trust in Jesus Christ, but it takes time to see our actions and attitudes change to be like His. Paul notes that he is not perfect, but encourages Christians to mimic his singular focus on pursuing Jesus. As believers, we are taught to consider everything in life worthless in comparison with knowing Christ and becoming more like Him. Be encouraged!