Philippians 3:13

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,

Brethren {G80}, I {G1473} count {G3049} not {G3756} myself {G1683} to have apprehended {G2638}: but {G1161} this one thing {G1520} I do, forgetting {G1950} those things {G3303} which are behind {G3694}, and {G1161} reaching forth unto {G1901} those things which are before {G1715},

Brothers, I, for my part, do not think of myself as having yet gotten hold of it; but one thing I do: forgetting what is behind me and straining forward toward what lies ahead,

Brothers, 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,

Brethren, I count not myself yet to have laid hold: but one thing I do, forgetting the things which are behind, and stretching forward to the things which are before,

Commentary

Philippians 3:13 (KJV): "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,"

This powerful verse, penned by the Apostle Paul from prison, reveals his mindset regarding spiritual progress. Despite his extensive knowledge and experiences, Paul maintained a posture of humble pursuit, acknowledging that he had not yet reached the ultimate goal.

Context

In Philippians chapter 3, Paul contrasts his former life based on Jewish credentials and adherence to the law with his new life centered on Christ. He counts all his previous accomplishments as "loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:8). He expresses a fervent desire to know Christ more intimately, to experience the power of His resurrection, and to share in His sufferings. Verse 12 makes it clear that he hasn't "already attained" perfection or been made completely perfect. Verse 13 expands on this, explaining the attitude and action required for this ongoing pursuit towards the ultimate prize described in the following verse (Philippians 3:14).

Key Themes

  • Humility and Realism: Paul, despite his spiritual maturity and apostolic calling, humbly admits he hasn't "apprehended" or fully arrived at perfection. This counters any notion of passive spirituality.
  • Single-Minded Focus: The phrase "this one thing I do" highlights a focused, concentrated effort towards a singular goal. It speaks against being distracted by multiple competing priorities.
  • Forgetting the Past: This involves intentionally letting go of past failures, sins, successes, or any achievements that might hinder forward progress. It's about not being defined or held back by what has already happened.
  • Pressing Forward: The term "reaching forth" (often translated "straining" or "pressing on") uses athletic imagery, like a runner leaning forward towards the finish line. It signifies active, determined effort and anticipation for what lies ahead in Christ.
  • Spiritual Pursuit: The verse encapsulates the dynamic nature of the Christian life as a continuous journey of growth and pursuit towards Christlikeness and the ultimate reward.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "apprehended" (κατείληφα, kateilēpha) means to lay hold of, seize, or attain fully. Paul uses it to say he hasn't yet fully grasped or reached the ultimate goal he is pursuing. The phrase "reaching forth" (ἐπεκτείνομαι, epekteinomai) is vivid, picturing someone stretching out or straining towards something ahead, often used in the context of a race.

Reflection and Application

Philippians 3:13 challenges believers today to adopt a similar attitude. We are called to run the Christian race with perseverance, not dwelling on past mistakes or resting on past accomplishments. True spiritual growth requires an intentional act of "forgetting" what is behind – whether it's past sins that bring guilt or past victories that lead to complacency – and "reaching forth" with determination towards knowing Christ more deeply and living out His calling. This verse encourages a forward-looking faith, focused on the prize of God's high calling in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14).

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Cross-References

  • Luke 9:62 (86 votes)

    And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

  • Hebrews 12:1 (56 votes)

    ¶ Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

  • Hebrews 12:2 (56 votes)

    Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

  • Philippians 3:12 (48 votes)

    Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.

  • 1 Corinthians 9:24 (37 votes)

    ¶ Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.

  • 1 Corinthians 9:27 (37 votes)

    But I keep under my body, and bring [it] into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

  • Psalms 27:4 (28 votes)

    One [thing] have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.