Philippians 3:16

“only, whereunto we have attained, by that same rule let us walk”

“Only”: The essential point to be grasped. Some suggest that this verse indicates that whatever "differences" are to be read into verse 15, are only minor ones. “Whereunto we have attained”: In having become mature, in adopting the attitude expressed in the previous verses. “As far as we have come toward our cherished goal” (Jackson p. 72). “We must continue to live up to that degree of success that we have already reached” (Wms). “By that same rule let us walk”: “Lit., walk in line with” (Muller p. 127). “The idea of. regulative standard is implied” (Vincent p. 451). “To be drawn up in. line, to hold to, to agree with” (Hawthorne p. 157).

God expects all Christians to "get in line". We are expected to have the same mental outlook toward our spiritual growth. The "rule" in this context is the attitude mentioned in Philippians 3:12-15. The lives of every member must be governed by the attitude of striving for spiritual perfection. God is against "slackers" among His people (Revelation 3:15). “Together these words constitute Paul's appeal to the Philippians to fall in step with him and together with him begin to live up to whatever level of knowledge they have already acquired” (Hawthorne p. 157). Yet more than that, God expects every Christian to strive for the highest possible level of spiritual growth--this diligent attitude is expected of all, from the babe in Christ to the most mature (2 Peter 1:5).