Philippians 3:20

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“For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Does this passage prove that the dead converse in a strange, new, truer “conversation,” and that they are in heaven?

The word “conversation” derives from the Greek word politeuma and should be properly translated citizenship. The word politics also comes from this word.

This fascinating scripture reveals that a Christian’s “citizenship” is held in heaven (I Peter 3:4, referenced earlier that it is reserved there). These passages explain why Christ said, “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36). This is because it is of, or belongs to, another place—heaven!

Christians are ambassadors for another government (II Cor. 5:20) and citizens of the kingdom of God. This is why they do not participate in man’s systems of government. Their citizenship derives from and is held by a different authority—heaven—GOD!

Christians’ citizenship comes from heaven by the authority of God in heaven. Recall that Revelation 22:12 shows that Christ brings each man’s reward with Him! Philippians 3:21 shows that it is speaking of the resurrection (I Cor. 15:1-58; John 5:25-29), when our bodies shall be changed. I Cor. 15:20 is not referring to conversation, but rather to citizenship.

Matthew 6:19-23 explains that Christians can store eternal reward in heaven. The analogy is that a Christian’s citizenship is held in heaven for him where no one can destroy it (“neither moth nor rust doth corrupt”).

Philippians 3:20 uses the phrase “from where” in describing Christ’s Return. He comes here—from there—with His reward, not the other way around!