16/07/2022
The Greek word for refuse denotes dregs, rubbish, filth, what is thrown to the dogs; hence, dog food, dung. There is no comparison between such things and Christ. It is important to realize that in 3:8 Paul does not speak of the excellency of Christ, but of the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. Many readers of Philippians take the word excellency to refer not to the knowledge of Christ, but to Christ Himself. However, Paul specifically and definitely speaks of the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. Paul's knowledge of Christ was excellent. On account of the excellency of this knowledge, he was willing to suffer the loss of all things. In verse 7 Paul says "on account of Christ," but in verse 8 he goes further and says "on account of the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord." The addition of the words "my Lord" indicates that as Paul was writing, he was filled with intimate, tender feelings concerning Christ. Tender feelings concerning the preciousness of the Lord Jesus rose up within him, causing him to speak of "Christ Jesus my Lord." Paul placed great value on the excellency of the knowledge of his dear Lord Jesus Christ. (c) Living Stream Ministry.
