Pressing Toward the Goal

Introduction. (Philippians 3:12-14) In this text the Apostle describes himself as “pressing” toward the goal (or mark) of heaven. This is the ultimate goal of Christian’s. (Note: That is not to suggest that heaven is earned by human striving.) Salvation is a gift - Ephesians 2:8,9 -

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
Although man does not merit salvation, the Lord only offers salvation to those who dilligently seek Him. Romans 2:6,7 says God will-
“...render to each one according to his deeds: eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality;”
Hebrews 11:6 -
“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
This morning for a moment or two let’s consider what Paul’s words in Philippians chapter three teach us about striving towards the goal of heaven.

Striving Towards the Goal Involves Three Important Acts:

I. “Forgetting those things which are behind.” (vs. 13).

FORGETTING
  1. Abraham. (Genesis 12; Acts 7:2-5; Hebrews 11:8).
  2. Lot didn’t look back. (Genesis 19:17, 26).
  3. “Forsake all.” (Luke 14:33; Mark 1:16-18).
  4. “Put off the old man. (Ephesians 4:20-24).

II. “Reaching forward to those things which are ahead.” (vs. 13).

REACHING
  1. We must choose high ideals or we will never acheive great things. It is said that when Abraham Lincoln was a boy he said - “I will prepare myself and when the opportunity comes, I’ll be ready.” David was like this. (Psalm 22:9,10). (Note: Many mistakes but never hindered is view of the goal.)
  2. We must “Seek those things which are above.” (Colossians 3:1-2).

III. “I press toward the goal ... of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (vs. 14).

PRESSING (I.E. DETERMINATION)
  1. “I will build.” (Matthew 16:18) Note: Jesus was determined. Death would not prevent it.
  2. The crown awaiting the faithful. (II Timothy 4:7-8.)

Conclusion. (Philippians 3:15-17) Let us imitate the example of Paul as we press toward the goal of heaven, with determination, zeal and dilligence.