Citizens of Heaven

Citizens of Heaven

Philippians 3:17-21

Live as citizens of heaven!

Imitate godly people. (17)

Don’t be fooled by temporary, earthly pleasures. (18-19)

Remember you are a citizen of heaven. (20-21)

Study Questions - Philippians 3:17-21

1.Read verse 17. Take a few moments to consider the apostle Paul. From what you know about him in the Scriptures, is he humble or arrogant? Fearful or faithful? Insecure or confident? So, why do you think Paul is asking the Christians in Philippi to imitate him, and what do you think he means by this?

Is it ok for Paul to ask people to follow his example, and what are the dangers of asking others to follow our example? Do you believe that your walk with God is worth imitating? Why or why not? What needs to change in your life so it is a life worth imitating?

2.Read verses 18-19. What is Paul’s attitude toward those who are “enemies of the cross”? What are the four ways that Paul describes these “enemies of the cross”? What does each description mean? How can you see these four aspects in unbelievers in our country, our community, and in your circle of relationships?

Is your attitude toward people who can be categorized as “enemies of the cross” similar to Paul’s? Why or why not? Do any of these four aspects describe you? If so, what do you need to do about it?

3.Read verses 20-21. What does it mean to be a citizen of heaven, and why is it important for us to remember these things? Notice the word “but” in verse 20 that is pointing to a contrast between the “enemies of the cross” with the Christians in Philippi. As you consider the “enemies of the cross” in verses 18-19, how is being a citizen of heaven different? What two things do we have to look forward to as citizens of heaven?

• So what? Take a few moments to read back through these verses out loud. What is God impressing on you that you need to apply to your life?