3:19 3:19

Philippians 3:20

3:21 3:21

Bible Versions

For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:
For {G1063} our {G2257} conversation {G4175} is {G5225} in {G1722} heaven {G3772}; from {G1537} whence {G3739} also {G2532} we look for {G553} the Saviour {G4990}, the Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}:
But we are citizens of heaven, and it is from there that we expect a Deliverer, the Lord Yeshua the Messiah.
But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,
For our citizenship is in heaven; whence also we wait for a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:

Philippians 3:20 is a powerful declaration of the believer's true identity and ultimate hope. In this verse, the Apostle Paul contrasts the earthly, temporal pursuits of those who are "enemies of the cross of Christ" (Philippians 3:18) with the heavenly orientation of true followers of Jesus.

Context

This verse comes towards the end of Paul's letter to the Philippian church, where he is emphasizing the surpassing value of knowing Christ and pressing forward in the Christian race (Philippians 3:8, Philippians 3:14). He warns against those who focus solely on earthly things, whose "god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame" (Philippians 3:19). Against this backdrop, verse 20 serves as a foundational truth for believers: our citizenship is not here on earth, but in heaven.

Key Themes

  • Heavenly Citizenship: The primary message is that believers are citizens of heaven. This implies that our ultimate allegiance, our true home, and the source of our values are not of this world. Our identity is rooted in our relationship with Christ and our future destiny.
  • Eager Expectation of Christ's Return: The verse clearly states that we "look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ." This speaks to the Christian hope in the second coming of Christ, often referred to as the Parousia. It is an active, eager anticipation of His glorious return to transform believers and establish His kingdom.
  • Future Transformation: While not explicitly stated in this verse, the subsequent verse (Philippians 3:21) elaborates on how Christ will "change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body." This heavenly citizenship is coupled with the promise of future physical and spiritual transformation.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "conversation" might be confusing to modern readers, as it typically refers to spoken dialogue. However, in 17th-century English, "conversation" could mean one's conduct, manner of life, or even one's place of residence or citizenship. The Greek word used here is politeuma (πολίτευμα), which literally means "commonwealth," "citizenship," or "body of citizens." It strongly emphasizes that our true allegiance and governmental affiliation are with heaven, not with any earthly power or system. Our life on earth should be lived in accordance with the laws and values of our heavenly homeland.

Practical Application

Understanding that our citizenship is in heaven has profound implications for daily living:

  • Priorities Shift: Earthly possessions, status, and temporary pleasures become less significant when viewed from the perspective of an eternal, heavenly citizenship. Our focus should be on "things above".
  • Conduct Reflects Identity: As citizens of heaven, our conduct should reflect the values of that kingdom. This means living with integrity, love, justice, and holiness, representing our heavenly King on earth. We are essentially ambassadors for Christ.
  • Hope and Resilience: The eager expectation of Christ's return provides immense hope and resilience in the face of earthly trials and suffering. We know that our ultimate future is secure and glorious, transcending any present difficulties.

Philippians 3:20 calls believers to live with an eternal perspective, knowing our true home and ultimate hope lie in the coming of our Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Ephesians 2:19

    Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

  • Colossians 3:1

    ¶ If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

  • Colossians 3:3

    For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

  • 2 Corinthians 4:18

    While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen [are] temporal; but the things which are not seen [are] eternal.

  • 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.

  • Hebrews 12:22

    But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels,

  • 1 Peter 1:3

    ¶ Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
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