Pressing on toward perfection (Kaizen) - Philippians 3:12-14

I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
— Philippians 3:12-14 NLT

Not that I have already obtained all this
Paul acknowledges his own spiritual journey and growth, emphasizing humility. This phrase reflects the Christian understanding that sanctification is a lifelong process. Paul, despite his significant contributions to the early church, admits he has not yet reached spiritual perfection. This humility is a model for believers, reminding them that no one is beyond the need for growth and transformation. The “all this” refers to the resurrection and complete transformation into Christ’s likeness, as discussed earlier in Philippians 3.

or have already been made perfect
The concept of perfection here is about spiritual maturity and completeness in Christ. In the Greco-Roman world, perfection often implied a state of completeness or fulfillment of purpose. Paul contrasts this with the Christian journey, which is ongoing. Theologically, this aligns with the doctrine of sanctification, where believers are progressively conformed to the image of Christ. This phrase also counters any notion of spiritual elitism, emphasizing that even apostles are on a journey toward holiness.

but I press on
Paul uses athletic imagery, common in his writings, to describe the Christian life as a race or pursuit. The Greek word for “press on” suggests vigorous and determined effort. This reflects the cultural context of the Isthmian Games, similar to the Olympics, which were familiar to his audience. The Christian life requires perseverance and dedication, akin to an athlete striving for victory. This imagery is also found in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, where Paul speaks of running the race to win the prize.

to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me
This phrase highlights the reciprocal nature of the Christian calling. Christ’s initiative in “taking hold” of Paul refers to his conversion experience on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). It underscores the idea of divine election and purpose. Believers are called to actively pursue the purpose for which they were saved, which is to become like Christ and fulfill God’s will. This reflects the biblical theme of God’s sovereignty and human responsibility working together in the process of salvation and sanctification.

LEARNING POINTS

The Journey of Faith
Paul acknowledges that he has not yet reached perfection, highlighting the ongoing nature of the Christian journey. Believers should recognize that spiritual growth is a continuous process.

Pressing Onward
The phrase “press on” (Greek: di?k?) implies an active and determined effort. Christians are called to actively pursue their spiritual goals with perseverance and dedication.

Purpose in Christ
Paul seeks to “take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” This underscores the importance of understanding and pursuing God’s purpose for our lives, which is rooted in our relationship with Christ.

Humility in Growth
By admitting he has not yet obtained perfection, Paul models humility. Believers should maintain a humble attitude, recognizing their need for continual growth and reliance on God’s grace.

Christ-Centered Focus
The ultimate goal of the Christian life is to become more like Christ. Our efforts and pursuits should be centered on Him, aligning our lives with His teachings and example

Greek Dive

have already been perfected,
τετελείωμαι (teteleiōmai)
Verb – Perfect Indicative Middle or Passive – 1st Person Singular
Strong’s 5048: From teleios; to complete, i.e. accomplish, or consummate.

I press on
διώκω (diōkō)
Verb – Present Indicative Active – 1st Person Singular
Strong’s 1377: To pursue, hence: I persecute. A prolonged form of a primary verb dio; to pursue; by implication, to persecute.

to take hold of
καταλάβω (katalabō)
Verb – Aorist Subjunctive Active – 1st Person Singular
Strong’s 2638: From kata and lambano; to take eagerly, i.e. Seize, possess, etc.

Related Verses

Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect
Matthew 5:48

23 I do all this for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings. 24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable
1 Corinthians 9:23-25 BSB

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God
Hebrews 12:1-2

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but to all who crave His appearing.
2 Timothy 4:7-8

Therefore, brothers, strive to make your calling and election sure. For if you practice these things you will never stumble, and you will receive a lavish reception into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
2 Peter 1:10-11

To this end I also labor, striving with all His energy working powerfully within me.
Colossians 1:29

But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not in vain. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me
1 Corinthians 15:10

Insight
Paul says that his goal is to know Christ, to be like Christ, and to be all Christ has in mind for him. This goal absorbs all of Paul’s energy. This is a helpful example for us.

Challenge
We should not let anything take our eyes off our goal—knowing Christ. With the single-mindedness of an athlete in training, we must lay aside everything harmful and forsake anything that may distract us from being effective Christians. What is holding you back?

© 2010 by Tyndale House Publishers

My Pondering

As we read, our successful significant sanctification requires our diligent effort with our common yet unique divine purpose and more-so, it involves being empowered by God by abiding and practicing the spiritual disciplines unto perfection, by which is humanly impossible but by Christ is all possible. By striving for perfection we might obtain excellence and hear “we done my good and faithful friend” at the end of our earthly race.