Philippians 3:14

Press. Gr. dioko, “pursue,” translated “follow after” in v. 12, which sense is also appropriate here, since Paul, keeping his eyes fixed on the goal, sees little else but his objective. He knows that he who would win must keep the goal and the prize clearly in mind. The contestant must not be turned aside by applause or insult, he must not relax, he must not stumble, he must not stop; he must continually press forward until the goal is gained.

Mark. Gr. skopos, “a mark [on which the eye fixes],” “a goal”; related to the verb skopeo, “to spy,” “to peer,” “to look into the distance” (see on ch. 2:4). Skopos is used only here in the NT. In the LXX it is used of an archer’s mark (Job 16:12; Lam. 3:12).

Prize. Gr. brabeion, “a reward to victors in public games,” hence, “a prize.” In earthly races there could be only one winner (1 Cor. 9:24), but in the Christian race each has the opportunity to be a victor and receive the prize.

High calling. Literally, “upward calling,” that is, a calling to heaven which comes from heaven. This call not only came to Paul at his conversion but was constantly sounding in his ears. God never ceases to call the Christian heavenward.

In Christ Jesus. The call is made by God in the life and person of His Son. The example of Jesus constitutes a continual stimulus to the believer (Heb. 12:1, 2).