Transformed By Truth: Our Heavenly Citizenship Philippians 3:20 Series

Transformed by Truth: Our Heavenly Citizenship Philippians 3:20

Philippians 3:20 (NLT): "But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior."

Introduction:

Today, we will delve into the profound truth presented in Philippians 3:20. This verse reminds us of our true identity and citizenship in heaven. We will explore three key points: Our Heavenly Citizenship, Living as Ambassadors of Christ, and Eagerly Awaiting Our Savior. These points will help us understand how to live a life transformed by the truth of our heavenly identity.

Point 1: Our Heavenly Citizenship

Philippians 3:20 (NLT): "But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives."

Paul is writing to the Philippians, a Roman colony, where citizenship was a prized possession. He contrasts earthly citizenship with the superior citizenship in heaven.

The Greek word for "citizens" is "politeuma," which means a commonwealth or community. This term signifies our belonging to a higher realm governed by God's laws and principles.

Ephesians 2:19 (NLT): "So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family."

Paul emphasizes that through Christ, we are no longer outsiders but part of God's household. The term "xenoi" (strangers) and "paroikoi" (foreigners) highlight our previous alienation, now replaced by belonging.

Imagine a person who moves to a new country and receives citizenship. They are granted new rights, responsibilities, and identity. Similarly, our heavenly citizenship grants us new identity and responsibilities in Christ.

Embrace your identity as a citizen of heaven. Live according to the values and principles of God's kingdom. Reflect your heavenly citizenship in your daily conduct.

Point 2: Living as Ambassadors of Christ

Philippians 3:20 (NLT): "And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior."

Paul's mention of eagerly waiting for Christ's return underscores the active anticipation and the role we play in representing Him on earth.

The Greek word "apekdechomai" for eagerly waiting implies an intense and persistent expectation. This term emphasizes our focus on Christ's return and our mission meanwhile.

2 Corinthians 5:20 (NLT): "So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, 'Come back to God!'"

As ambassadors, we represent Christ and His kingdom on earth. The Greek term "presbeuo" signifies a representative or envoy, highlighting our duty to convey Christ's message.

Consider an ambassador in a foreign country. They represent their home nation's interests and culture. Similarly, we represent the values and message of Christ's kingdom in this world.

Act as ambassadors of Christ. Share His love, truth, and grace with others. Live in a way that reflects His character and draws people to Him.

Point 3: Eagerly Awaiting Our Savior

Philippians 3:20 (NLT): "We are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior."

Paul encourages the Philippians to maintain a hopeful and expectant attitude toward Christ's return, which motivates holy living and perseverance.

The term "apekdechomai" also suggests an eager and active waiting, not passive idleness. This anticipatory posture influences our daily decisions and actions.

C.S. Lewis: "If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next."

Titus 2:13 (NLT): "While we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed."

Paul encourages Titus to maintain a hopeful outlook, looking forward to Christ's glorious return. The Greek word "prosdechomai" here signifies an eager expectation and readiness.

Think of children eagerly waiting for a parent to return from a trip. Their anticipation affects their behavior, as they prepare and remain watchful. Our anticipation of Christ's return should similarly influence our conduct.

Live in readiness for Christ's return. Let this hope shape your values, decisions, and actions. Stay focused on eternal perspectives rather than temporal concerns.

Conclusion and Call to Action:

A.W. Tozer: "The man who has God for his treasure has all things in One."

This week, reflect on your heavenly citizenship. Embrace your identity in Christ and live as His ambassador. Let the anticipation of His return inspire you to live a holy and impactful life. Share the hope of Christ with others, encouraging them to embrace their heavenly citizenship.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the assurance of our heavenly citizenship. Help us to live as Your ambassadors, eagerly awaiting the return of our Savior. Empower us to reflect Your kingdom values and share the hope of Christ with those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Let these truths transform us, reminding us of our heavenly citizenship and inspiring us to live for our Savior. Amen.