In Philippians 3 What Does It Mean To Live As Citizens Of Heaven In A World That Often Opposes Our Values?
Living as Citizens of Heaven: Insights from Philippians 3
The apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians is a powerful call to live with a perspective shaped by our heavenly citizenship. In Philippians 3, Paul contrasts the values of this world with the surpassing worth of knowing Christ and urges believers to live in light of their true identity. Let’s explore what it means to live as citizens of heaven in a world that often opposes Christian values.
1. The Heavenly Identity of the Believer
Paul makes a profound declaration:
For our citizenship is in heaven; whence also we wait for a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. - Philippians 3:20 ASV
In the original Greek, the term for “citizenship” (πολίτευμα, politeuma) refers to the status and privileges of belonging to a particular city or state. Paul reminds the Philippians—citizens of a Roman colony, proud of their status—that their true homeland is not Rome, but heaven. This identity shapes their values, priorities, and loyalties.
2. The Contrast: Earthly vs. Heavenly Mindset
Paul warns of those “whose god is the belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things” (Philippians 3:19 ASV). These individuals live for immediate gratification and earthly success. In contrast, believers are called to set their minds on things above.
This echoes Paul’s exhortation elsewhere:
If then ye were raised together with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated on the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things that are above, not on the things that are upon the earth. - Colossians 3:1-2 ASV
Living as citizens of heaven means evaluating our ambitions, relationships, and choices through the lens of eternity, rather than the fleeting standards of this world.
3. Pursuing Christ Above All
Paul famously writes:
Yea verily, and I count all things to be loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but refuse, that I may gain Christ. - Philippians 3:8 ASV
For Paul, everything that once defined him—his heritage, achievements, and status—pales in comparison to knowing Christ. This radical reorientation is at the heart of heavenly citizenship. It means that Christ is our highest treasure, even if the world does not understand or approve.
4. Living with Hope and Expectation
Unlike those who are focused only on this life, believers “wait for a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20 ASV). Our hope is not in earthly security or approval, but in the return of Christ and the promise of transformation:
who shall fashion anew the body of our humiliation, that it may be conformed to the body of his glory, according to the working whereby he is able even to subject all things unto himself. - Philippians 3:21 ASV
This hope empowers believers to endure hardship and remain faithful when their values are challenged or opposed.
5. Standing Firm Together
After describing the believer’s heavenly citizenship, Paul exhorts:
Therefore, my brethren beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my beloved. - Philippians 4:1 ASV
Living as citizens of heaven is not a solitary pursuit. The church is a colony of heaven on earth, called to encourage, support, and pray for one another as together we bear witness to Christ in a world that often opposes Him.
Practical Applications
- Evaluate your priorities: Are your ambitions shaped by eternity or by temporary gain?
- Stand firm in your faith: When you face opposition or misunderstanding, remember your true allegiance is to Christ.
- Support fellow believers: Encourage and stand with others who seek to honor Christ above all.
- Keep your hope fixed on Christ’s return: Let the promise of future transformation fuel endurance and joy today.
Conclusion
To live as citizens of heaven means to embrace a new identity, set our minds on Christ, and live in hopeful expectation of His return. In doing so, believers shine as lights in a world that often opposes godly values, offering a compelling witness to the hope and holiness found in Jesus.