Week of December 26

This Sunday we will work back into our study through the book of Philippians. Our text will be Philippians 3:17-4:1. Paul is writing to his friends and fellow laborers in the gospel at a very difficult time, both for him and for them. Paul is being held as a prisoner in Rome awaiting trial and the Church in Philippi is facing increasing opposition from the world as well as internal strife amongst some of its members. So, Paul is encouraging them to live now in light of their heavenly citizenship. He calls them to, “stand firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith of the gospel, and not frightened in anything by your opponents”. Paul has just walked them through how he “presses on towards the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus”. Now, in our text this week, Paul will call the Church to imitate him and others who live by the pattern laid out for them in Jesus Christ (2:5-11), while warning them from taking up the pattern of those who would live as enemies of the cross. As we look toward the new year, let us consider what it means for our citizenship to be in heaven and what it means for our manner of life to be worthy of the gospel.  May, “the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all” (2 Corinthians 13:14).

 


Sermon Title: “Stand Firm As Citizens Of Heaven”

Sermon Text: Philippians 3:17-4:1

Meditation Passage: Colossians 3:1-4

Call To Worship: Psalm 117

Benediction: Romans 15:13

 


Songs For Sunday:

Come People Of The Risen King

All Creatures Of Our God And King

Wonderful, Merciful Savior

A Mighty Fortress Is Our God

See The Destined Day Arise

Holy Spirit Living Breath Of God

 

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