Fifth Sunday in Lent Philippians 3:4b-14

The Paradox of Lent | AIM Commentary

Ancient Lens

What can we learn from the historical context?

Broader Context of Philippians

Paul is concerned that Judaizers (those that require Christians to follow the Torah) are going to corrupt true faith in Jesus Christ by adding the burden of the law, including its many requirements, upon the Gentile Christians in Philippi.

This is something Paul has grown accustomed to, having already dealt with this issue in Thessalonica and (possibly) Galatia, depending on when the letters were originally published. Nevertheless, this will become one of the primary heresies that Paul will deal with during his ministry. Young Christians struggling…

1. Why was Paul particularly concerned about the Judaizers influencing the Gentile Christians in Philippi?

2. Why does Paul share his own “resume” with the Philippians? Is it intended to be a one-upping of the Judaizers? Why or why not?

3. According to Paul, what does it mean to “know Christ,” and how does this include both suffering and…