Re:Verse passage – Philippians 3:12-16 (day seven)
“however, let us keep living by that same standard to which we have attained.” vs 16
First off, what is this standard? I believe Paul is finishing his defense of the statement he made in verse 10, “becoming like [Jesus].” This is our standard as Christians. Our goal first and foremost is to be conformed more and more into the image of Christ every day.
Here is the catch: Not only are we attaining a standard, but we as Christians are the standard. As the gold standard is to currency, we are the value by which the world measures morality. If Christians are not keeping the standard constant by speaking truth and shining a light in the darkness, then the morality of the world inflates and deflates based off societal norms. If Christians are not there to point to a moral law giver then there is no need for morality, or if our standard becomes corrupted, then people will look for morality in other places. We are to be the standard by attaining the standard, which is becoming like Christ.
There is a standard for Christians whether we want one or not. Since we believe “truths” and practice them from one end of the spectrum to the other, we as Christians show no true standard or goal to point others to biblical truths nor to living as followers of Christ. Me included, of course.