A. By Jesus

1. None of us met Jesus by our own strength
(11-14, Philippians 3:5-7)

Philippians 3:4b-7 If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.

Philippians 3:4b-7 If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.

2. Neither by someone else’s power (15-21)

15 But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased 16 to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being. 17 I did not go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went into Arabia. Later I returned to Damascus. 18 Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Cephas and stayed with him fifteen days. 19 I saw none of the other apostles―only James, the Lord’s brother. 20 I assure you before God that what I am writing you is no lie. 21 Then I went to Syria and Cilicia.

B. For Jesus (22-24)

22 I was personally unknown to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. 23 They only heard the report: “The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” 24 And they praised God because of me.

Summary

Paul, reflecting on how he himself came to believe in Jesus, was certain that it was impossible by his own strength to have come to believe. We also met Jesus and started our walk with Him not by our own strength but by the power given by God. Even if we ourselves are not able to believe, God makes us able. We are made alive to rejoice together with others for this power of God’s that is working in us.

For Discussion

1) Why does Paul reflect on his own past here?
2) What joy will come to us if we live for Jesus?