2. Reaching Forward To
What Is Ahead
Philippians 3:12-16

3. Past, Present, and Future
Challenge:
To think rightly about all three

4. Strong Language Philippians 3:13 -- Reaching Forward
Straining every nerve for that which lies in front –TCNT
Stretching out to the things that are before – BBE
Straining forward to what lies ahead – ESV
Struggling for what is ahead – CEV
All showing a vigorous pursuit

5. the point aimed at as a limit,
Reaching for the “End”
1 Peter 1:9
The Christian
doesn’t dread
death anymore
than a runner
dreads the
finish line
Telos (end)
the point aimed at as a limit,
i.e. the conclusion
of an act or state

6. Passages Utilizing “Telos”
Romans 6:22
Hebrews 3:6
Hebrews 3:14
1 Peter 4:7
Revelation 2:26
All emphasize “reaching forward”

7. Healthy Attitude Toward The Future
The next step is the most important
The best is yet to come (Rom. 8:18)
Heaven is worth whatever it takes (Phil. 3:7-11)

8. Let’s Not Forget Today We must be more than “dreamers”
While our THINKING must be
toward the future, our DOING
must be done today
We must be more than “dreamers”

9. Healthy Attitude Toward The Future
Putting the EMPHASIS in the right place
Adopting a basic PERSPECTIVE
The example of Jesus (Phil. 2:5 {in view of} Heb. 12:2)
What is ahead is the greatest!

10. To depart and be with Christ
Do We Really Believe It?
To depart and be with Christ
…is far better
Philippians 1:23

11. Where Is My Aim? Do I desire only God’s glory?
Philippians 1:20-21
Am I comfortable with God’s rule and righteousness?
Matthew 6:33
Do I long to be with Christ, face to face?
John 14:1-3
Do I groan for heaven?
2 Corinthians 5:2