Paul describes his spiritual pursuit: 'I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus' (Philippians 3:14). The noun σκοπός, from the root meaning 'to look at' or 'watch,' designated a target archers aimed at or a lookout point. Athletes racing toward the finish line kept their eyes fixed on the goal marker. Paul uses this athletic imagery to picture focused, forward movement—forgetting what's behind, straining toward what's ahead. The goal isn't merely heaven but the complete realization of being found in Christ, knowing him fully, and attaining resurrection life.