Philippians 3
Repeatedly in Philippians, Paul gives reasons to rejoice. He even starts this chapter by saying, “For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe.” The NLT says it in simpler English; Paul uses repetition to safeguard the readers faith. There is so much wisdom in this practice. There are times when I feel like I am hearing the same things from the pulpit that I already know. The repetition of hearing the elementary principles of the Christian faith will safeguard the very faith that we have. This is not to say that we should not desire spiritual meat instead of spiritual milk, but we should be constantly reminded of the Truth of the Gospel.
Paul then goes on telling the church at Philippi to be watchful for any work’s based, legalistic salvation doctrine to creep into their church. He gives a list of reasons of how he could be confident in his flesh, but states that he counts it all as garbage. He doesn’t trust in his own efforts to be righteous for salvation, because He realizes that Jesus already achieved that positional righteousness for him by living a perfect life and offering Himself as the spotless lamb who took away the sin of the world. He then talks about striving towards the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Paul ends this chapter with an awesome reminder. He says, “Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern.” Paul said a similar thing to the Corinthian church when he said, “Imitate me as I imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). This is a call to young and old people alike. The exhortation for the subjective “older” followers of Christ is this, be a worthy example of Jesus so others wouldn’t be ashamed if they imitated you. This should be done by middle schoolers to elementary aged children, by high schoolers to middle schoolers, by young adults to high schoolers, and by adults to young adults. This is not the role of pastors or church employees, but it’s the role of the Church at large. Meaning it is my job, your job, and everyone who professes Jesus’ name’s job. One aspect of this is setting a holy standard for the next generation to follow, but it is also investing your time and talents into the next generation. This is called generational discipleship and Paul commands it in Titus 2. The call to the subjective “younger” person is to be seeking out discipleship from those who have more experience, wisdom, and knowledge. Every mature believer should be discipling someone while being discipled themselves.