by Richard Sibbes
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
Richard Sibbes' Exposition of Philippians Chapter 3 is a masterful treatment of one of the most Christ-exalting passages in all of Scripture. In this deeply pastoral and soul-stirring work, Sibbes, known as "the sweet dropper" for his gospel-rich preaching, unpacks the Apostle Paul's passionate plea to count all things as loss for the surpassing worth of knowing Christ. With characteristic depth, warmth, and precision, Sibbes leads the reader through each verse, uncovering the heart of true Christian joy, the emptiness of self-righteousness, and the necessity of pressing forward in faith.
One of the most compelling aspects of this work is Sibbes' relentless focus on Christ as the believer’s only confidence. In an age of easy formalism and self-dependence, Sibbes echoes Paul's call to beware of false teachers, those "dogs" who would add human merit to the gospel. With careful exposition, he exposes the deadly nature of legalism, showing how any confidence in the flesh—whether in heritage, good works, or religious observance—must be abandoned in favor of Christ alone. His words are not only theologically precise but also devotionally rich, urging the believer to find their deepest joy, not in earthly status or personal righteousness, but in union with Christ.
Sibbes also highlights the necessity of suffering and sanctification in the Christian life, drawing out the profound truth that to know Christ is to share in His sufferings and resurrection power. He vividly illustrates that the believer’s pilgrimage is one of ever-increasing conformity to Christ, calling readers to “press toward the mark” with eyes fixed on their heavenly citizenship. His exhortations are laced with pastoral tenderness, urging weary saints to take heart, rejoice in their salvation, and persevere in faith.
This Exposition is not a dry theological treatise but a warm-hearted, affectionate call to embrace Christ with all joy and abandon. Sibbes writes with the soul of a preacher and the wisdom of a seasoned shepherd, ensuring that this work will stir the affections of any who read it. His careful exegesis and doctrinal depth make it a treasure for pastors and students of the Word, while his practical and experiential insights render it an invaluable companion for any believer longing to grow in grace.
About the Author:
Richard Sibbes (1577–1635) was a towering figure of the English Puritan movement, known for his Christ-centered preaching and writings that combine doctrinal depth with rich pastoral warmth. A preacher at Gray’s Inn and a leading voice in Reformed piety, Sibbes influenced generations of Puritans, including Thomas Goodwin and John Cotton. His works, including The Bruised Reed and The Soul’s Conflict, continue to be treasured for their deep spirituality and encouragement to the struggling believer. Exposition of Philippians Chapter 3 is yet another example of why Sibbes remains one of the most beloved Puritan authors, a man whose words still refresh weary saints with the sweet comforts of Christ.
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Table of Contents
Introduction
Verse 1: To write the same things to you
Verse 2: Beware of Dogs
Verse 3: For we are the circumcision
Verse 4: Though I might also have confidence in the flesh
Verse 5: Of the stock of Israel
Verse 6: Concerning zeal, persecuting the church
Verse 7: But what things were gain to me, those I count loss for Christ
Verse 8: Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss
Verse 9: And be found in him
Verse 10: And the fellowship of his sufferings
Verse 11: If by any means I might attain to the resurrection of the dead
Verse 12: Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect
Verse 13: Brethren, I count not myself to have apprchended
Verse 14: I press towards the mark
Verse 15: Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded
Verse 16: Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule
Verse 17: Brethren, be followers together of me
Verse 18: For many walk, of whom I have told you often
Verse 19: Whose end is destruction
Verse 20: For our conversation is in heaven
Verse 21: Who shall change our vile body