What does Philippians 3:6 mean?

Explanation

Philippians 3:6 echoes the Apostle Paul's former life as a devout Jew thoroughly committed to the practices and legalistic righteousness of Pharisaic Judaism.

Paul is giving his religious résumé to show the extent of his dedication to Judaism before his conversion to Christianity.

When he speaks of his "zeal," he refers to his passionate and aggressive defense of Jewish law, which included persecuting the early Christian church.

His claim of being "blameless" in the context of legal righteousness suggests that, according to the strict standards of the law, Paul adhered to the rules flawlessly, as perceived by his peers and by his own assessment before he knew Christ.

Historical Context

This verse is part of a letter known as the Epistle to the Philippians, one of Paul's prison epistles, believed to be written around A.D. 60-62 while Paul was under house arrest in Rome.

Philippi was a Roman colony in Macedonia, and the church there was founded by Paul himself (Acts 16).

The audience comprised mostly of Gentile Christians.

At this time, there was a tendency for some Jewish Christians (Judaizers) to insist that Gentile Christians should observe Jewish law.

Paul wrote this passage to argue against this legalistic perspective and promote faith in Christ as the true means of righteousness.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints may focus on various aspects of this verse:

• Reformed Theology may emphasize the doctrine of justification by faith alone, contrasting it with the legal righteousness of the law which Paul adheres to before his conversion.
• Dispensationalists might highlight the different economies of God's redemptive plan, with Paul transitioning from the dispensation of the Law to the dispensation of Grace.
• New Perspective on Paul theologians could discuss how Paul's notion of law and righteousness relates to covenantal membership markers for Israel rather than moral perfection.

Practical Applications

Philippians 3:6 can serve as a reminder that zeal and apparent blamelessness according to religious standards are not sufficient for true righteousness and salvation.

It challenges individuals to consider the basis upon which they establish their righteousness, whether it is through personal achievement or through faith in Jesus Christ.

This verse also encourages the surrendering of legalistic self-righteousness in favor of the righteousness that comes from God by faith.

Cross-References

• Acts 22:3-5 - Paul describes his zealous persecution of Christians.
• Romans 10:2-4 - Paul speaks about the Jews' zeal for God but not according to knowledge, and Christ being the end of the law for righteousness.
• Galatians 1:13-14 - Paul recounts his previous life in Judaism and how he persecuted the church.

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text include:

• ζήλω (zēlō): Translates to "zeal," a fervor or passionate eagerness in pursuit of something, in this case, the defense of Judaism.
• διώκων (diōkōn): Means "persecuting," which in this context refers to Paul's aggressive actions against the followers of Jesus.
• ἀμέμπτως (amemptōs): This word translates to "blameless," indicating that according to the legalistic righteousness of the law, Paul was without fault.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other religions and ancient cultures, the idea of legalistic righteousness is also present. For example, Pharisees' counterparts in other belief systems emphasized external adherence to religious codes as a way to attain favor with the divine.

In contrast, the Christian concept of righteousness by faith represented a departure from this idea, focusing on internal transformation and a personal relationship with God.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse does not directly intersect with scientific understandings, as it primarily deals with religious practice and beliefs.

However, the psychological aspect of transformation from a legalistic to a faith-based lifestyle may have relevance in the study of mental health and personal well-being, areas that can be explored through social sciences.

Commentaries

• John Calvin: Calvin would likely focus on the inadequacy of human righteousness before God and the necessity of divine grace for salvation.
• Matthew Henry: Henry would probably highlight Paul's earnestness in his former life compared to the even more significant commitment to Christ after his conversion.
• William Barclay: Barclay might comment on the irony that Paul, the former persecutor of the church, became one of its most ardent defenders and apostles through his encounter with Jesus Christ.