New International Version I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. New Living Translation I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. English Standard Version I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Berean Standard Bible I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus. Berean Literal Bible I pursue toward the goal for the prize of the upward calling of God in Christ Jesus. King James Bible I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. New King James Version I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. New American Standard Bible I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. NASB 1995 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. NASB 1977 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Legacy Standard Bible I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Amplified Bible I press on toward the goal to win the [heavenly] prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Berean Annotated Bible I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s {Theou} heavenly calling in Christ (the Anointed One) Jesus (YHWH saves). Christian Standard Bible I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus. Holman Christian Standard Bible I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus. American Standard Version I press on toward the goal unto the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Contemporary English Version I run toward the goal, so I can win the prize of being called to heaven. This is the prize God offers because of what Christ Jesus has done. English Revised Version I press on toward the goal unto the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. GOD'S WORD® Translation I run straight toward the goal to win the prize that God's heavenly call offers in Christ Jesus. Good News Translation So I run straight toward the goal in order to win the prize, which is God's call through Christ Jesus to the life above. International Standard Version I keep pursuing the goal to win the prize of God's heavenly call in the Messiah Jesus. NET Bible with this goal in mind, I strive toward the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. New Heart English Bible I press on toward the goal for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Webster's Bible Translation I press towards the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Weymouth New Testament with my eyes fixed on the goal I push on to secure the prize of God's heavenward call in Christ Jesus. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleI press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus. World English Bible I press on toward the goal for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionI pursue to the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Berean Literal Bible I pursue toward the goal for the prize of the upward calling of God in Christ Jesus. Young's Literal Translation to the mark I pursue for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Smith's Literal Translation I pursue toward the scope for the prize of combat of the calling above of God in Christ Jesus. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleI press towards the mark, to the prize of the supernal vocation of God in Christ Jesus. Catholic Public Domain Version I pursue the destination, the prize of the heavenly calling of God in Christ Jesus. New American Bible I continue my pursuit toward the goal, the prize of God’s upward calling, in Christ Jesus. New Revised Standard Version I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleI press toward the goal to receive the prize of victory of God’s highest calling through Jesus Christ. Aramaic Bible in Plain English And I run toward the goal to take the victory of the calling of God from on high in Yeshua The Messiah. NT Translations Anderson New Testamentbut one thing I do; forgetting the things which are behind, and reaching forward to those which are before, I press toward the goal, for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Godbey New Testament but there is one thing, indeed forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forward to those which are before, I press toward the goal unto the mark of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Haweis New Testament I press towards the mark for the prize of the divine calling from on high in Christ Jesus. Mace New Testament I press towards the mark for the prize to which God has called me from above by Jesus Christ. Weymouth New Testament with my eyes fixed on the goal I push on to secure the prize of God's heavenward call in Christ Jesus. Worrell New Testament I am pressing on toward the mark, for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Worsley New Testament I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible (Voice ▾ Musical ▾) Context Pressing Toward the Goal…13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus. 15All of us who are mature should embrace this point of view. And if you think differently about some issue, God will reveal this to you as well.… Cross References I press on Hebrews 12:1-2 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. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 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. / 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. / Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air. … 2 Timothy 4:7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. toward the goal 2 Corinthians 5:9 So we aspire to please Him, whether we are at home in this body or away from it. Ephesians 4:13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God, as we mature to the full measure of the stature of Christ. Hebrews 6:1 Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith in God, to win the prize 2 Timothy 4:8 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. Revelation 2:10 Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison to test you, and you will suffer tribulation for ten days. Be faithful even unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. James 1:12 Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. of God’s heavenly calling Hebrews 3:1 Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, set your focus on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess. 1 Thessalonians 2:12 encouraging you, comforting you, and urging you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. Hebrews 12:22-24 Instead, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to myriads of angels / in joyful assembly, to the congregation of the firstborn, enrolled in heaven. You have come to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, / to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel. in Christ Jesus Romans 8:1-2 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. / For in Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set you free from the law of sin and death. 2 Timothy 1:9 He has saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works, but by His own purpose and by the grace He granted us in Christ Jesus before time began. 1 Corinthians 1:30 It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God: our righteousness, holiness, and redemption. 1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. Treasury of Scripture I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. press. Luke 16:16 The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it. 2 Corinthians 4:17,18 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; … 2 Corinthians 5:1 For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. the high. Romans 8:28-30 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose… Romans 9:23,24 And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory, … 1 Thessalonians 2:12 That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory. Jump to Previous Christ Eyes Fixed Forward Goal God's Heavenward High Jesus Mark Press Prize Purpose Pursue Push Reward Secure Towards Upward WinJump to Next Christ Eyes Fixed Forward Goal God's Heavenward High Jesus Mark Press Prize Purpose Pursue Push Reward Secure Towards Upward WinPhilippians 3 1. He warns them to beware of the false teachers;4. showing that himself has greater cause than they to trust in the righteousness of the law; 7. which he counts as loss, to gain Christ and his righteousness; 12. acknowledging his own imperfection and pressing on toward the goal; 15. He exhorts them to be thus minded; 17. and to imitate him, 18. and to decline carnal ways. I press on Paul describes an ongoing, disciplined pursuit shaped by grace rather than self-confidence. Though imprisoned and acquainted with suffering, he refuses to regard past achievements, failures, or present hardships as the defining reality of his life. Like a runner fixed on the course ahead, he perseveres in obedience, growth, and faithfulness to Christ. Heb 12:1-2 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud… toward the goal The goal is full conformity to Christ and completion of the work God began in His people. Paul’s longing to know Christ, share in His sufferings, and experience resurrection life governs every earthly priority. The Christian life moves forward with the certainty that God will bring His redeemed people into perfected holiness. 2Co 5:9 So we aspire to please Him, whether we are at home… to win the prize The prize is the consummation of salvation: resurrection, eternal life, and unhindered fellowship with Christ in His kingdom. It is not a reward earned by works, for salvation rests wholly on Christ’s saving work. Yet believers faithfully pursue the Lord because they have been called and secured by His grace. Earthly crowns fade, but the reward God gives endures forever. 2Ti 4:8 From now on there is laid up for me the crown…… of God’s heavenly calling God has summoned believers away from a life governed by sin and earthly ambition into the hope of His eternal glory. The calling comes from God and leads upward, culminating in the presence of Christ. It gives purpose to present endurance because the destination is not merely relief from suffering but everlasting communion with God. Heb 3:1 Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling… in Christ Jesus. Every aspect of the calling and its promised prize rests in union with Christ. He is the source of righteousness, the pattern of holy living, and the risen Lord who guarantees His people’s future resurrection. Paul presses forward because Christ has already made him His own. Rom 8:1-2 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those… Persons / Places / Events 1. Paul the ApostleThe author of the letter to the Philippians, Paul is writing from prison, encouraging the believers in Philippi to remain steadfast in their faith and to pursue their heavenly calling. 2. Philippi A city in Macedonia where Paul established a church. The Philippian church was known for its generosity and support of Paul's ministry. 3. Christ Jesus Central to Paul's message, Jesus is the one who calls believers to a heavenly purpose and provides the strength to pursue it. Teaching Points The Pursuit of the GoalPaul emphasizes the importance of having a clear spiritual goal. As Christians, our ultimate aim is to fulfill God's calling in our lives, which requires intentionality and perseverance. The Prize of the Heavenly Calling The "prize" Paul refers to is not earthly but heavenly. It is the fulfillment of God's purpose for us, culminating in eternal life with Christ. This perspective should shape our priorities and actions. Pressing On with Perseverance The Greek word for "press on" (di?k?) implies an active, determined pursuit. Christians are called to persist in their faith journey despite challenges, keeping their eyes on the eternal reward. Christ-Centered Focus Our motivation and strength come from Christ. By maintaining a Christ-centered focus, we align our lives with His will and purpose, ensuring that our efforts are not in vain. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Philippians 3:14?2. How can you "press on toward the goal" in your daily life? 3. What does "the prize of God's heavenly calling" mean for believers today? 4. How does Philippians 3:14 connect with Hebrews 12:1-2 about perseverance? 5. What obstacles hinder you from pressing toward your spiritual goals? 6. How can you encourage others to pursue "the prize" in their faith journey? 7. What does "press on toward the goal" mean in Philippians 3:14? 8. How does Philippians 3:14 relate to the concept of perseverance in faith? 9. What is the "prize" Paul refers to in Philippians 3:14? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Philippians 3? What Does Philippians 3:14 Mean I press onPaul writes, “I press on” (Philippians 3:14), picturing steady, determined movement. • He refuses to coast on past accomplishments (Philippians 3:12–13). • Like the runner in 1 Corinthians 9:24, he leans forward, straining every spiritual muscle. • Hebrews 12:1–2 calls believers to “run with endurance the race set out for us… fixing our eyes on Jesus,” echoing Paul’s mindset. The apostle models perseverance that is active, not passive—daily choices that keep Christ as the focal point no matter the opposition. toward the goal A “goal” implies a clear finish line. • Paul’s target is conformity to Christ (Philippians 3:10), not earthly success. • Colossians 3:1–2 urges, “Set your minds on things above,” steering believers away from distractions. • 2 Timothy 4:7 shows Paul near death saying, “I have finished the race,” proving the goal can be reached by grace-fueled endurance. By keeping eternity in view, we avoid aimless wandering and keep our steps aligned with God’s purpose. to win the prize The Christian race offers a reward that far surpasses any earthly trophy. • 1 Corinthians 9:25 reminds us that athletes chase a “perishable crown,” but believers pursue an “imperishable.” • Jesus speaks of rewards for faithful servants in Matthew 25:21: “Well done, good and faithful servant!” • Revelation 2:10 promises “the crown of life” to those who remain faithful unto death. This prize is not earned by human merit; it is received by those made righteous through faith, yet God graciously honors faithful obedience. of God’s heavenly calling The calling originates with God, not human ambition. • Romans 8:30 links calling with justification and glorification, displaying God’s sovereign work from start to finish. • Ephesians 4:1 urges believers to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received,” highlighting daily responsibility. • 2 Peter 1:10 encourages diligence to confirm this calling, showing that assurance grows through obedience. Our race is grounded in a divine summons that lifts our eyes above earthly limits to heavenly citizenship (Philippians 3:20). in Christ Jesus Every step, goal, and reward centers “in Christ Jesus.” • Union with Christ supplies the power: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13). • Identity in Christ defines the runner: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Security in Christ guarantees the finish: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion” (Philippians 1:6). Our relationship with Christ is both the starting block and the finish tape. summary Philippians 3:14 pictures the believer as a runner fueled by relentless perseverance, eyes locked on an eternal goal, eager for a heavenly prize, propelled by God’s own calling, and empowered through union with Christ. Press on, stay aimed at the finish, and run in the strength He supplies, knowing the prize is sure for all who are in Him. (14) The high calling of God.—Properly, the calling which is above—i.e. (much as in Colossians 3:12), “the heavenly calling,”—which is “of God,” proceeding from His will, for “whom He predestinated, them He also called” (Romans 8:30); and is “in Christ Jesus” in virtue of the unity with Him, in which we are at once justified and sanctified.Verse 14. - I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus; rather, with the best manuscripts, unto the prize. The first preposition, "towards," expresses the aim; the second, "unto," the end of the race. The high calling; the upward, heavenward calling. God is calling us all upward, heavenward, by the voice of the Lord Jesus, who is the Word of God. Comp. Hebrews 2:1, "Partakers of the heavenly calling." The words, "in Christ Jesus," are to be taken with "the high calling." It is God who calls: he calls us in the person of Christ, by the voice of Christ, "Come unto me." "It was his will that thou shouldst run the race below; he gives the crown above. Seest thou not that even here they crown the most honored of the athletes, not on the racecourse below, but the king calls them up, and crowns them there" (Chrysostom).Parallel Commentaries ... Greek I press onδιώκω (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. toward κατὰ (kata) Preposition Strong's 2596: A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined). [the] goal σκοπὸν (skopon) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular Strong's 4649: From skeptomai ('skeptic'); perhaps akin to skapto through the idea of concealment; compare skepasma); a watch, i.e. a goal. to [win] εἰς (eis) Preposition Strong's 1519: A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. the τὸ (to) Article - Accusative Neuter Singular Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. prize βραβεῖον (brabeion) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular Strong's 1017: A prize. From brabeus; an award, i.e. a prize in the public games. of τῆς (tēs) Article - Genitive Feminine Singular Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. God’s Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular Strong's 2316: A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. heavenly ἄνω (anō) Adverb Strong's 507: Up, above, up to the top, up to the brim, things above, heaven, the heavenly region. Adverb from anti; upward or on the top. calling κλήσεως (klēseōs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular Strong's 2821: A calling, invitation; in the NT, always of a divine call. From a shorter form of kaleo; an invitation. in ἐν (en) Preposition Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. Christ Χριστῷ (Christō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular Strong's 5547: Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. Jesus. Ἰησοῦ (Iēsou) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular Strong's 2424: Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites. Additonal Resources Philippians 3:14 Blue Letter BiblePhilippians 3:14 Bible Gateway Philippians 3:14 Bible.com Philippians 3:14 NIV |
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