Heavenly Citizenship – Philippians 3:20-21 Commentary
Commentary and Explanation of Philippians 3:20-21
You need to know where you come from to know where you are going.
Welcome to another bible study as we unpack the book of Philippians and begin to apply it to our lives.
Today we are going to talk about our heavenly citizenship and how it should affect the way that we live each day.
Where do you belong? So many of us seek the answer to this consuming question.
There is something inside of us that is designed to resonate with the heart of God and we feel like we do not quite fit in anywhere else.
The truth is, we were not designed for this place. This world is ruined and cursed on account of sin.
Man was created in perfection to have a real relationship with God. Through rebellion, we became broken.
Sin destroys everything it touches. We became resigned to a system that headed toward oblivion.
But Hope still lives. God, infinite in grace and mercy, provided a path of reconciliation.
Through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, the penalty for sin is paid. When we could not reach God, He reached down
to us.
For those who have put their faith in Christ for this great salvation, our citizenship is changed forever.
We are no longer slaves of this world. We are adopted sons and daughters of the King and our citizenship is secure in heaven.
Philippians 3:20-21 says
‘For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself.’
Today, let us live like citizens of heaven.It is easy to blend in and live like those who have no hope. Just getting by and waiting through the mundane
of each day.
Don’t get lulled into complacency. Don’t get bogged down by the temporary troubles that surround you.
These are distractions from your true calling. We are called to live like heaven is our habitation.
Start with your speech
An accent can often let you know where someone calls home. If others were to listen to the way that you talk, would they know you are a citizen of heaven?
Our language should be filled with grace and flow with mercy. Each word can be a powerful encouragement when wielded intentionally.
We can use our words to build each other up, while the rest of the world is trying to tear us down.
Next, we need to have a heavenly viewpoint. We need to understand that this world is not our final destination.
What do we have in our lives now that will endure beyond this? These are the things that deserve our attention.
Attempt to see the world, especially people, from God’s point of view.
Shift our culture
The habits and rituals that shape our lives should spring from the goodness of God. Selfishness is replaced by generosity. Pride is replaced by humble thanksgiving. Jealousy is replaced by godly fellowship.
Begin to craft a culture in your home the shouts the greatness of God to all who encounter it.
Celebrate as a citizen of heaven
Each nation has its own celebrations based on its culture and history. Heaven celebrates too.
As a child of God, you have the greatest reason to rejoice. No matter what the circumstance, find joy in the journey. Celebrate the goodness of God. Let praise and adoration be on our lips always.
There is even more good news
Because of the power of Christ and the work of the cross, one day we will step out of this frailty into a body of perfection conformed to the glory of Christ.
One day we will get to go home and enjoy our citizenship firsthand. Until then let us reflect the radiance of the King.
Thanks for spending a few minutes with me today in God’s Word.
Please share this with someone who could use some encouragement today.
