“For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:”– Philippians 3:20 (KJV)
“But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior.”– Philippians 3:20 (NLT)
“But there’s far more to life for us. We’re citizens of high heaven. We’re waiting on the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, to come from heaven.”– Philippians 3:20 (MSG)
What Does Philippians 3:20 Mean?
In the book of Philippians, Paul shares a powerful message about our identity as believers. When he says, “For our conversation is in heaven,” he emphasizes that our citizenship is not grounded in this world, but instead, our true home is in heaven. This point is crucial. It reminds us that as Christians, our values, priorities, and ultimate destination are shaped by our relationship with Jesus Christ. Here, Paul contrasts the focus of the believer with that of those who place their trust in earthly pleasures. He highlights how we, as citizens of heaven, live with a different perspective.
Throughout our lives, we often get caught up in what’s happening around us. We may feel pressure from our environments: school, work, and social aspects, all vying for our attention. Paul, however, shifts our gaze upward. Our true allegiance lies with the heavenly kingdom, where Jesus reigns. This verse paints a vivid picture of hope, helping us understand that while we face struggles here, our ultimate destiny comes from looking towards the heavens. These words also serve as a reminder that our actions and choices must reflect our heavenly citizenship.
Philippians 3:20 Explanation and Commentary
As we explore Philippians 3:20 more closely, we understand that the word “conversation” in the KJV can also mean “citizenship” in more recent translations. This change highlights the responsibility and privilege that comes with being part of God’s kingdom. It is a call to living authentically as representatives of Christ here on earth. If we think about the meaning of citizenship, it encompasses loyalty, belonging, and conduct. Being a citizen of heaven means we must reflect the character of our Savior in our daily lives.
As believers, we are called to be light in the darkness, embodying Christ’s teachings. Our citizenship reminds us that we are ambassadors for Him. In 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul again urges us, saying, “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.” This reinforces that our behavior should not mirror worldly practices but rather shine forth the glory of God. With our hearts set on Christ, we locate our identity far beyond earthly pursuits and acknowledgments.
Also, Paul mentions that we “look” for the Savior, which demonstrates anticipation. Our hope lies in Jesus returning to transform our lives. This hope gives us courage in trials and tribulations. Just as a child eagerly awaits Christmas morning, we too should hope for the return of our Lord. The knowledge that He is coming again brings us immense joy and motivation to live each day in a way that pleases Him.
Paul draws contrasts between the “enemies of the cross” and heaven’s citizens. He highlights that many live as though they follow their desires and put their stomachs before God. When our focus shifts to the eternal kingdom, the things of this world suddenly lose their allure. God calls us to a higher purpose where we do not chase after worldly things but rather pursue righteousness and holiness. It is about uplifting others and representing Christ in every corner we occupy.
Context of Philippians 3:20
To comprehend the true depth of Philippians 3:20, we must consider the letter’s context. Paul wrote this passionate letter from prison, encouraging the church in Philippi to stand firm in their faith despite challenges and persecution. Paul experienced great hardship and faced normal human trials, yet his constant focus was uplifting Christ. Without hesitation, he shared his struggles, knowing it would fortify the believers in Philippi.
Pursuing Christ is at the heart of the Philippian message. While speaking of earthly gains and loss, Paul expresses that everything is worthless compared to knowing Jesus (Philippians 3:8). He further shares how heavenly citizenship provides assurance amidst stress. We too can find peace knowing that while we face obstacles, Christ’s victory assures our place in heaven.
Paul’s writing serves as a reminder for us to maintain an eternal perspective. As we strive toward our spiritual growth, we can find inspiration from his words. Paul’s circumstances did not prevent him from looking toward heaven. Instead, he used it to challenge the believers to remain steadfast. The context surrounding Philippians 3:20 helps reinforce the need for believers to hold onto their faith and continue embracing the hope of eternal life.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Philippians 3:20
Several key aspects emerge from Philippians 3:20 that require clearer understanding: conversation, citizenship in heaven, and looking for the Savior. Each of these facets offers profound insights into what it means to be a follower of Christ. Firstly, recognizing our conversation in heaven expands our understanding of life as believers. It reassures us that our daily existence resonates on a deeper level than just earthly matters. As we engage with people, we should share heavenly love and fellowship with others.
Secondly, the concept of citizenship is significant. When we know we belong to God’s kingdom, we understand our responsibilities and privileges. As citizens, we carry the name of Jesus, and our character reflects His love to others. This helps us build a community where everyone can support one another through faith. Ultimately, this creates an environment of trust, encouragement, and love. What an exciting opportunity to be part of something greater than ourselves!
Lastly, the anticipation of the Savior is alive in us. It is a daily reminder that we have a future beyond what the eye could behold. We should cherish that expectation wholeheartedly. Jesus is our hope during difficult times, and this truth solidifies our faith in Him as we press on toward spiritual maturity. By living in expectation, we cultivate a relationship with God that impacts our present and shapes our future.
Lessons to Learn From Philippians 3:20
From Philippians 3:20, several lessons resonate deeply with us. First, our identity as citizens of heaven should shape our lives. Are we reflecting Christ’s character in our decisions? Living as examples of grace is vital, especially as the world seeks to create divisions. By embodying love, kindness, and compassion, we testify to the transforming power of Jesus Christ.
Secondly, we are called to maintain an eternal perspective. Staying mindful of heaven encourages us to share our faith with others confidently. It influences the way we interact within our communities, reminding us to uplift and embrace one another. When we realize that we are bound for eternity with Christ, we begin to see the importance of how we treat others.
Finally, waiting for Jesus to return motivates us to live with purpose. Life becomes meaningful when we recognize that our time is intentional preparation for His coming. This invigorating realization should inspire us to invest in others. We should help each other grow in faith and love. Relationships matter to God, and nurturing them can lead to lives that honor Him.
Final Thoughts
Philippians 3:20 invites us to live aware of our identity and purpose as citizens of heaven. Paul teaches us that our lives should be reflections of Jesus, who gives us hope and purpose in our daily walks. We face challenges, but we can embrace them while maintaining a focus on our true home.
In closing, we should encourage one another as we strive to live according to our heavenly calling. By continually seeking God’s guidance, we grow in faith and deepen our reliance on the Savior. Our lives are a testimony to others, and we should always aspire to reflect Christ’s love. As we look to the promises of heaven, let us remind ourselves of the joy that awaits us. For more insightful topics, we invite you to explore otherScriptures and reflections. May we all continue to pursue Christ as we embody our heavenly citizenship.