New Testament
Philippians 3:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I press on toward the goal for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Compare translations
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
What Philippians 3:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Philippians 3:14, the Apostle Paul expresses his determination to pursue the ultimate goal of his faith, which is to receive the heavenly reward that God offers through Jesus Christ. The phrase 'press on' indicates a strong commitment and effort to move forward despite challenges. Paul uses the metaphor of a race, where he is focused on the finish line, symbolizing the fulfillment of God's calling in his life. This calling is not just a general invitation but a specific purpose that God has for each believer. By emphasizing the 'prize,' Paul highlights the importance of striving for spiritual growth and maturity, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in their faith journey. This verse serves as a reminder that the Christian life requires perseverance and focus on the eternal rewards that await those who remain faithful to God's calling.
How to apply Philippians 3:14 to your life
To apply this verse, set clear spiritual goals in your life and actively pursue them. Stay focused on your relationship with God and the purpose He has for you. Remember that challenges are part of the journey, but pressing on will lead to greater rewards.
Curated for this public verse page. Philippians Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: Mending Their Nets (Mark 1:19–20)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
John the Apostle
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Philippians 3:14
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Fuller verse explanations
Explore what a verse means, what was happening around it, and how it connects to other Bible passages.
Plain Meaning
Paul describes himself as straining forward toward a finish line. The "mark" is the goal he is running toward. The "prize" is what he wins when he gets there. That prize is the "high calling of God in Christ Jesus" — the call God gave him through Christ, and the reward that comes at the end of following it. He is not coasting; he is pushing hard toward something ahead of him.
Read It in Context
In verse 12, Paul said he has not yet reached the goal — he is still pursuing it. In verse 13, he said he does one thing: he forgets what is behind and reaches for what is ahead. Verse 14 is the direct follow-through on that. Paul is writing about his own ongoing pursuit, not a finished achievement.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Philippians 3:14 and any verse in the Bible.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Philippians 3:14
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Philippians
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 61
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Philippi
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Philippians 3:14 mean?
Philippians 3:14 expresses the Apostle Paul's determination to pursue his spiritual goals and the heavenly reward that God offers through Jesus Christ. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance in faith and staying focused on God's calling.
What is the meaning of 'press on' in Philippians 3:14?
In Philippians 3:14, 'press on' signifies a strong commitment to continue moving forward in faith, despite obstacles. It reflects an active effort to achieve spiritual growth and fulfill God's purpose.
What does the 'prize' refer to in Philippians 3:14?
The 'prize' in Philippians 3:14 refers to the heavenly reward that believers receive for their faithfulness and perseverance in following God's calling through Jesus Christ.
How can I apply Philippians 3:14 in my life?
To apply Philippians 3:14, set clear spiritual goals and actively work towards them. Stay focused on your relationship with God and remember that challenges are part of the journey toward achieving your purpose.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.