NOTES for Php 3:17-21

The Apostle Paul is not afraid to set himself as an example. What is this — presumption, self-confidence? No. This is objective confidence in the grace of God. Paul understands what has been granted to him by the Lord, and therefore he can afford to say: "Imitate me, brethren."

Imitate in what? In following Christ. The main thing that the Apostle Paul calls us to imitate is the understanding that "our citizenship is in heaven." If one correlates one's actions with eternity, a completely new dimension opens up. It is in this dimension that Paul proposes we think.