Philippians 3:16

Attained. Paul is saying in effect: Discover what has contributed to Christian development in the past and follow the same plan in the future. The method of Christian attainment does not change. Unfortunately there are many who, with rapid strides, begin the Christian way, then grow weary, and do not continue with the same grace that started them on their way. They become dependent on past experience instead of enjoying new victories and making fresh progress. Satisfaction with past attainments leads to carelessness. Yesterday’s conquests will not suffice for today. The Christian must continually advance.

By the same rule. Important textual evidence may be cited (cf. p. 10) for the omission of the words “rule, let us mind the same thing.” The shorter reading may be translated as: “let us walk the same path,” that is, let us continue in the upward way. This is part of the loving warning and admonition, which, if accepted, would prevent the entrance of errors that would otherwise disrupt the Philippian church.