Philippians 3:16

Authorized King James Version

Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.

Word-by-Word Analysis

πλὴν

G4133

Nevertheless

moreover (besides), i.e., albeit, save that, rather, yet

εἰς

G1519

whereto

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

ὃ

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

ἐφθάσαμεν

G5348

we have already attained

to be beforehand, i.e., anticipate or precede; by extension, to have arrived at

τῷ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀυτο

G846

by the same

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

στοιχεῖν

G4748

let us walk

to march in (military) rank (keep step), i.e., (figuratively) to conform to virtue and piety

κανόνι,

G2583

rule

a rule ("canon"), i.e., (figuratively) a standard (of faith and practice); by implication, a boundary, i.e., (figuratively) a sphere (of activity)

τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#10

ἀυτο

G846

by the same

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

#11

φρονεῖν

G5426

let us mind

to exercise the mind, i.e., entertain or have a sentiment or opinion; by implication, to be (mentally) disposed (more or less earnestly in a certain d

Analysis

The kingdom of God theme here intersects with the progressive revelation of God's rule from creation to consummation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of development from creation mandate through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's reign from creation through the millennial kingdom.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of kingdom of God within the theological tradition of Philippians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about kingdom of God?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of kingdom of God, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of eschatology and the doctrine of last things?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from earthly theocracy through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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Topics

Peace