1. Boast in Christ (1-6)

Paul commands us to rejoice in Christ for the privileges we have through Him, for this guards our hearts and minds. We should not be deceived by false teachers, like those who told the Gentile Christians in Philippi that they had to be circumcised and become a Jew first. We should rejoice that we truly are circumcised and are free in the Spirit to serve Him! We should boast in Christ who gives us the privilege of being born again. Human circumcision, pride, and zeal mean nothing, as Paul experienced.

2. I want to know Christ (7-11)

Paul viewed his human glory as a loss compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ. He considered it as garbage that he may gain Christ! Paul's passion was to know Christ, participate in his sufferings and death, and know the power of his resurrection! Our passion should also be to know Christ's resurrection power in us and be free in the Spirit!


Application: Lord, my own goodness is garbage. Please help me to know Christ, being found in his righteousness alone.
One Word: I want to know Christ!