Philippians 3:14
“I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Context
This verse completes the athletic image begun in verse 13, as Paul describes the determined, forward-pressing pursuit that defines his life in Christ.
What Does Philippians 3:14 Mean?
Paul declares the focused aim of his life: he presses on toward the goal to win the prize of God's heavenly calling in Christ. The image is athletic -- a runner driving toward the finish with total commitment. "I press toward" conveys strenuous, determined effort, the pursuit of one whose eyes are fixed on a single objective. The "mark" is the goal or finish line, the target toward which the whole race is run. Paul lives not aimlessly but with a clear destination drawing him onward.
The motivation is "the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." The prize is the reward awaiting at the finish -- the fullness of life with Christ to which God has called His people. "High calling" points upward, to a calling that comes from above and lifts the believer toward a heavenly hope. Notice that the whole pursuit is "in Christ Jesus"; the goal, the calling, and the prize are all bound up in Him. This verse continues the runner imagery of the previous verse and gives the Christian life its forward momentum. For the reader, it is an invitation to live with purpose -- to run with intention toward the prize God holds out, refusing distraction and pressing on until the race is complete.
In the Original Language
The verb "diōkō" (press) means to pursue earnestly or chase down; "brabeion" (prize) is the victor's award given at the games, and "skopos" (mark) is the goal fixed in view.
Cross References
“Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.”
- 1 Corinthians 9:24
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:”
- 2 Timothy 4:7
“Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;”
- Hebrews 3:1
Application
Run your life with intention toward the prize God holds out, refusing distraction and pressing on toward the calling He has given you in Christ.