Having just described his attitude of pressing on to the “goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (v. 14), Paul encouraged the brethren to follow his example. He does not mean he is the standard, but as he wrote to the Corinthians, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). Anyone imitating Christ, even those other than Paul, are worthy examples to follow.
Paul would have the Philippians specifically focus on him as an example, for there were others in their midst which would serve as a bad example. They were the “dogs…evil workers…the mutilation” (v. 2). Their doctrine they espoused made them enemies of the cross, as well as their way of life which grew from it. Paul is morose for their spiritual state.
The only end to a life lived as the enemies of the cross were living is eternal “destruction.” The following are descriptions of their way of living:
- “Whose god is their belly” – All have a fleshly appetite (cf. Galatians 5:16-17). These do not serve God, but their fleshly appetite.
- “Whose glory is in their shame” – The things they are involved in are shameful. They glory in such shameful activities.
- “Who set their mind on earthly things” – This summarizes their way of life. They do not have a mind for the spiritual things, but for the carnal things (cf. Romans 8:1-11).
Contrasted with the life of the enemies of the cross is the life of a Christian. We live on earth, but our “citizenship is in heaven,” as is our Lord and Savior. We know He is coming back, and by the same power with which He rules, He will transform our “lowly bodies” (cf. 1 John 3:2). For this reason, Paul urges his “joy [and] crown” to remain solidly positioned in the Lord.