I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
What does Philippians 3:14 mean?
This simple dependence and earnestness of soul, were not mentioned as if the apostle had gained the prize, or were already made perfect in the Savior's likeness.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside Philippians 3:12-14 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Philippians 3:14
I press toward the mark - As he who was running a race did. The "mark" means properly the object set up at a distance at which one looks or aims, and hence the goal, or post which was set up at the end of a race-course, and which was to be reached in order that the prize might be won. Here it means that which is at the end of the Christian race - in heaven. For the prize - The prize of the racer was a crown or garland of olive, laurel, pine, or apple; see the notes at 1 Corinthians 9:24 . The prize of the Christian is the crown that is incorruptible in heaven.
Key words
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Context in Philippians 3
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Philippians 3 belongs to the late movement of the book, especially the section often described as warnings and examples. Philippians is a joyful prison letter centered on Christ’s humility, resurrection-minded hope, and steadfast partnership in the gospel. Read this chapter with the wider themes of joy, humility, and partnership in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
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