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Resolved | Holiness & Imitating Christ | Philippians 3:3-15 | Kort Marley by Providence Community Church
When the Bottom Falls Out in Your Life, Ask God to Get Involved Through Prayer AND Thanks – You will Be Amazed! MESSAGE SUMMARY: Sometimes the bottom falls out in your life, and you wonder where God is in all your stuff. Well, the challenge to you is to “Thank God” by turning your eyes away from all your life's “stuff” and turning your eyes to God and thanking Him! We have no better teacher, of the need to address God with our thanks, than when, in Luke11:2, Jesus responded to His Disciples' request to teach them to pray: “And he said to them, ‘When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come.'". By taking your situation to God in prayer AND thanks, you will be amazed at what will happen to your situation which, before you asked God through prayer AND thanks, seemed insurmountable. What do you usually do? You worry and fret – you focus on the negative and give the adverse situation so much power, in your life, rather than focusing on God and giving Him thanks. In Mathew 6:34, Jesus tells you not to be anxious about your life situations: “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.". Ask God to get involved in your life through prayer and thanks – you will be amazed. TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, may your will, not my will, be done in my life. You know how easy it is to call myself a Christian but then become busy, forgetting about your will and desires. Forgive me for this sin. Help me listen to you, and grant me the courage to faithfully surrender to you. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 25). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, My life is about Christ (Philippians 1:21). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 1 Corinthians 11:25; Colossians 2:2-3; John 10:25-30; Psalms 17:1-15. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “A Christmas Message”, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
"Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus…" Philippians 2:5
In this Sunday morning message from Florence Baptist Temple, Bill Monroe preaches on “The Indispensable Christ.” From Philippians 1:20–21 and Colossians 3:1–4, you'll discover that Christianity, the church, life itself, and our salvation all revolve around one Person—Jesus Christ.Christ is not an accessory to life; He is our life: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:21). If Christ is indispensable, then life without Him is inconceivable. Listen as Pastor Monroe calls believers to put Jesus at the very center of every area of life and invites those without Christ to trust Him as Savior.
Send us a text. If you would like a response, please send us an email to bcoc@suddenlinkmail.com.Jim Laws
What's your net worth? To determine it, you take the things you own (assets) and subtract the things you owe (liabilities). But is this really the best way to account for life? Paul encourages the Philippians to think differently. He tells them to count everything a loss compared to Christ. The gospel completely revises the way we account for our lives.
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Joy thrives with a stable foundation. When we try to find joy in unstable things like health, money, or works, those things crumble, and our "joy" comes crashing down with it. Paul encourages us to rejoice in the Lord. His finished work on the cross, paired with our secure position in Him, gives the believer a solid foundation for joy. Find unshakable joy in your position in Christ.
The Great Trade November 16, 2025 Elwyn Johnston Philippians 3:2 - 11 Verse of the Week: “that I may know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death” Philippians 3:10 1. Don't rely on past investments “Beware” Philippians 3:2 “circumcised the eighth day, of the nation of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the Law, a Pharisee” Philippians 3:5 2. Make a trade “whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ.” Philippians 3:7 “I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ” Philippians 3:8 “knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” Philippians 3:8 “that I may know Christ.” Philippians 3:10 Religion says – I obey, therefore I'm accepted. Relationship says – I'm accepted therefore I obey “that I may know…the power of His resurrection” Philippians 3:10 “the Spirit of God who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you” Romans 8:11 “that I may know…the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death” Philippians 3:10 “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 “The name of the Lord is a strong tower. The righteous runs into it and is safe.” Proverbs 18:10 “in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.” Philippians 3:11
Scriptural References: Philippians 2:3-11 CJB Mark 10:42-45 NKJV Luke 2:46-52 NIV Homework: Is there any role / duty in your life that you feel is beneath you? How can you bring the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5-8) to that role or duty?
DATE: 11/02/25 SPEAKER: Pastor Nathan Phillips TEXT: Philippians 3:17-4:1 https://www.evergreentn.com/
Grow Through Problems November 2, 2025 Elwyn Johnston Philippians 1:9 – 21 Verse of the Week: “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” Philippians 1:21 1. Accept love beyond limits “I pray that your love will overflow more and more in real knowledge and discernment.” Philippians 1:9 “approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless” Philippians 1:10 2. Let your problems become your platform for ministry. “my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel” Philippians 1:12 “through my being in prison, the Lord has given most of our brothers and sisters courage to speak God's word without fear” Philippians 1:14 3. Your life purpose is bigger than your current problems. “my earnest expectation and hope, that I will not be put to shame in anything…I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die.” Philippians 1:20 “For me to live is Christ” Philippians 1:21
Selfishness runs deep. Even doing outward things that look unselfish, we realize that even our motive for doing those things can be selfish. After telling the Philippians to do nothing out of selfish ambition, Paul points their attention to Jesus. He tells them to have the same mindset as Jesus had, and then He explains how Jesus demonstrated selflessness through humble obedience to the Father.
Our attitude is a crucial part of allowing God's love to work through us to help us in our human relationships, even in the church. Listen to hear how Paul instructs us to live like Christ in this.Visit: abideatascadero.orgEmail: info@abideatascadero.orgInstagram: @abide.calvary_atascFacebook: @AbideCalvaryAtascadero
JOHNSON CITY - Unpacking Philippians 1:19-26.
LAKE TRAVIS - As we continue our series in Philippians, we see in this portion of scripture that sometimes doing the right thing lands you in prison. It doesn't mean God doesn't love you. But God uses our frustrating circumstances still for His glory and His gospel. Through the Spirit, we need eyes to see how He is turning it all together for the good.
What's weighing down your joy?In Philippians 3, Paul invites us to a joy deeper than fleeting happiness, one that's rooted in releasing burdens never meant for us to carry.In this message, Pastor Nick Tallo continues our Joy Reclaimed series with “Joy in the Release.” From the image of a backpacking trip to the power of surrender, we discover that joy blossoms when we let go of the weight of performance, fame, and our past. Paul, writing from a prison cell, urges us to “rejoice in the Lord” (Philippians 3:1). This isn't about ignoring life's challenges—it's about finding a settled confidence in Christ that transcends every circumstance.Key Takeaways:Release Performance-Based Living – Paul warns against putting confidence in human effort, reminding us that salvation is by grace through faith, not works (Ephesians 2:8-9). True joy comes when we stop striving to earn God's love and rest in what He's already done.Release Past Achievements and Failures – Paul considers his past accomplishments “loss” compared to knowing Christ (Philippians 3:8). Whether it's victories or regrets, clinging to the past weighs us down. Joy comes when we press forward into what lies ahead.Embrace God's Purpose – Joy is found in living out God's grace and purpose—making Him known in every facet of life (Philippians 3:14). When we release our own plans and embrace His, we step into the freedom of true joy.If you've been carrying the weight of performance, control, or comparison, this message is a call to let go. Because until you release what doesn't last, you'll never experience the joy that does.Scripture: Philippians 3Series: Joy Reclaimed (Week 3 – “Joy in the Release”)Speaker: Pastor Nick2Rivers Church#JoyReclaimed #Philippians3 #2RiversChurch #JoyInChrist #FaithOverPerformance
A sermon by Pastor Ryan Proudfoot. Listen along as ACC Downtown continues in our series "The Book of Philippians: Rejoice in the Lord".
The desire for legacy is universal; we all want our lives to matter, to leave a mark that outlasts us. But our culture often pushes us toward building our own brand, maximizing comfort, and seeking recognition. Epaphroditus' story challenges this narrative. He didn't live to be known—he lived to be faithful. His legacy is not in fame or achievement, but in his Christ-like posture of humility, obedience, and self-giving love. Paul urges us to see in Epaphroditus a concrete example of what it means to adopt the mindset of Christ: to risk more, to reflect more, and to do more things that will live on beyond us.
DATE: 09/21/25 SPEAKER: Pastor Nathan Phillips TEXT: Philippians 2:9-11 https://www.evergreentn.com/
Pressing on in Christ (Philippians 3) - David Montgomery by Christ City Church Dublin
Want the deeper training Amb. Elisha mentions? Join Witnesses Plus on Patreon for exclusive episodes, live Q&As and daily transformational articles and many more — $10/month: https://www.patreon.com/cw/WITneSSesplus In this episode of Witnesses, Amb. Elisha delivers a powerful message on why living by feelings leads to destruction and why God's Word must be our standard. Drawing from Philippians 2:5, Jeremiah 17:9, and Proverbs 14:12, he exposes the dangers of emotional decisions in today's culture—whether it's identity, morality, or faith. Through real-life stories and biblical wisdom, Amb. Elisha reveals how society's shift toward feelings over truth is fueling moral decay and spiritual confusion. He challenges listeners to embrace the attitude of Christ, live with clarity, and stand firm in their God-given purpose.
In this episode William, Ben, and Webb discuss various themes surrounding golf, faith, and current events. They reflect on Scottie Scheffler's recent victory, the dynamics of the Ryder Cup team, and the teachings from Paul's letter to the Philippians. The conversation emphasizes the importance of living for Christ, finding joy in adversity, and the legacy we leave behind. They also address the tragic events surrounding Charlie Kirk and how Christians can engage with current events while maintaining a perspective rooted in faith.
DATE: 09/07/25 SPEAKER: Pastor Nathan Phillips TEXT: Philippians 2:5-8 https://www.evergreentn.com/
The Mind of Christ (Philippians 2:3-11) by Harvest Church
True spiritual richness springs from knowing Christ. This relationship redefines our identity beyond our rags—worldly success and status—and leads us to a transformed life focused on knowing Christ as our supreme treasure.
The desire to be liked is natural—but left unchecked, it can quietly shape your daughter's identity in unhealthy, even addictive ways. From the playground to the group chat, the pressure to earn approval can steal her joy, distort her view of self, and distance her from the truth of who she is in Christ. In this must-listen episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael Culpepper and Natalie Ambrose dive deep into the social and spiritual undercurrents of girls' need for affirmation. Together, they unpack how a girl's early development can fuel her craving for praise—and how loving, intentional parenting can redirect that desire toward the One whose love never wavers. You'll hear candid personal stories from both hosts, powerful Scriptural truths, and timely insights from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Emeritus Patti Garibay in the Raising Godly Girls Minute. You'll also learn how to reframe your daughter's attention-seeking behavior, not as manipulation, but as a longing to be seen, known, and loved. This episode doesn't just name the problem—it offers the Christ-centered path out. In this episode, you'll explore: How girls' early need for affirmation can spiral into an identity crisis if left unaddressed The “Hawthorne Effect” and what it reveals about your daughter's desire to be seen The difference between “fitting in” and standing out for Christ (Philippians 2:15, Romans 8:5) How to help your girl root her confidence in Colossians 3:2 living—setting her mind on things above Practical steps to break the approval addiction and reestablish her identity in Christ Scriptures Referenced: Philippians 2:15 — “...shine like stars in the sky.” Romans 8:5 — “Those who live according to the flesh...” Colossians 3:2 — “Set your minds on things above...” John 15:5 — “Abide in me and I in you...” This episode reminds you that your daughter's desire to be liked isn't the problem—it's where she looks for that affirmation that matters most. Help her turn from the fleeting approval of the world to the everlasting love of her Heavenly Father. And as a mom, be encouraged: your voice, your presence, and your daily words of truth are shaping the next generation of confident, Christlike women. Explore more resources to raise girls rooted in Christ at raisinggodlygirls.com. To find or start an AHG Troop in your area, visit americanheritagegirls.org.
Our Joy in Christ (Philippians 1:1-11) by Harvest Church
Contentment in Christ | Philippians 4:10-13 | 080325 by Corey
A Vision of Christ: Philippians 2:9-11: Pastor Jamie Merritt
When the Bottom Falls Out in Your Life, Ask God to Get Involved Through Prayer AND Thanks – You will Be Amazed! MESSAGE SUMMARY: Sometimes the bottom falls out in your life, and you wonder where God is in all your stuff. Well, the challenge to you is to “Thank God” by turning your eyes away from all your life's “stuff” and turning your eyes to God and thanking Him! We have no better teacher, of the need to address God with our thanks, than when, in Luke11:2, Jesus responded to His Disciples' request to teach them to pray: “And he said to them, ‘When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come.'". By taking your situation to God in prayer AND thanks, you will be amazed at what will happen to your situation which, before you asked God through prayer AND thanks, seemed insurmountable. What do you usually do? You worry and fret – you focus on the negative and give the adverse situation so much power, in your life, rather than focusing on God and giving Him thanks. In Mathew 6:34, Jesus tells you not to be anxious about your life situations: “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.". Ask God to get involved in your life through prayer and thanks – you will be amazed. TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, may your will, not my will, be done in my life. You know how easy it is to call myself a Christian but then become busy, forgetting about your will and desires. Forgive me for this sin. Help me listen to you, and grant me the courage to faithfully surrender to you. In Jesus' name, amen. Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 25). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that, because I am in Jesus Christ, My life is about Christ (Philippians 1:21). “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”. (Philippians 4:14). SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV): 1 Corinthians 11:25; Colossians 2:2-3; John 10:25-30; Psalms 17:1-15. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. THIS SUNDAY'S AUDIO SERMON: You can listen to Archbishop Beach's Current Sunday Sermon: “The Sermon on the Amount – Part 1 “Where Your Treasure Is””, at our Website: https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB
Ben Chally preaches from Philippians 3. Paul encourages the Philippians to rejoice in the Lord, warning them against false teachers who promote legalism and pride as paths to righteousness. He reminds the church that true safety and joy are found not in external works or personal performance but in knowing and being found in Christ. Paul then urges believers to press on in faith, striving toward the ultimate prize of a life lived in Christ. Grace Community Church exists to build spiritually healthy people for ministry in the world. One of the ways that we pursue this mission is by gathering each Sunday for corporate worship, prayer, and biblical teaching. The corporate nature of this gathering is both edifying to the believer and a witness of God's grace to the world. Sermon speaker is Scott Patty unless otherwise noted.
The Mind of Christ | Philippians 5:2-8 | Dr Jamie Merritt
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Rev. Patrick Donohue
In the Book of Philippians, the Apostle Paul tells us to “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” To live the A-Life, we must live with the mind of Christ. But what does that mean?Paul gives us 3 attitudes that embody the mind of Christ:HumilityServanthoodSacrificePutting on the mind of Christ means putting on humility and trusting God with your situation. Join Pastor Phil Hopper as he shares how the way to eternal glory is through humility!Connect with us on Social Media ↴Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlifels/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlifelsConnect with Pastor Phil ↴Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilHopperKCInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/philhopper_kc/Web: https://livingproof.co/resources/books/Learn more about the A-Life Discipleship Journey: https://alife.livingproof.co/More information on our sermons: https://livingproof.co/sermons/ Do you want to see your life changed by Jesus? Visit our website: https://livingproof.co/
What if the very system you trust to bring you closer to God is actually pulling you away from His grace—and true freedom is found somewhere you might not expect? In Galatians 5, Paul reminds us that true freedom comes not from religious rule-keeping or law-based performance, but from living by the Spirit through faith in Christ alone.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Galatians 5 | True Freedom in ChristSection 1: Stand Firm in Freedom (Galatians 5:1-6)Galatians 5:1-6 (NLT)Christ has truly set us free. Paul urges us to stay free and not get tied up again in slavery—this time, not slavery to old sinful habits, but to religious legalism. Both are equally destructive.Many Mormons follow rules, believing this makes them justified before God. Paul, once a Pharisee, believed the same until he encountered Christ:Philippians 3:7-9 (NLT): Paul calls his former religious achievements "garbage" compared to knowing Christ.Relying on works, like circumcision in Paul's day or LDS temple worthiness today, cuts people off from Christ and God's grace. True righteousness comes by faith alone.Big Idea: Christ set us free—don't return to a system of religious control.Illustration: Jesus didn't come to give us a new set of religious rules. He came to set us free (Matthew 11:28-30).Section 2: The Danger of Legalism (Galatians 5:7-12)Galatians 5:7-12 (NLT)The Galatians were running well until false teachers led them astray, adding law-keeping to the gospel. Paul warns that even small false teachings spread like yeast.Who holds Mormons back today? Consider the "Four Horsemen" of LDS control:LDS LeadershipLDS ScripturesLDS Temple System (worthiness interviews, temple recommends)LDS Culture and Social PressureAll these create a performance treadmill, keeping people from the simple gospel of grace.Paul is blunt: False teachers deserve judgment.Section 3: Freedom Isn't a License to Sin (Galatians 5:13-15)Galatians 5:13-15 (NLT)Freedom from the law doesn't mean freedom to indulge the sinful nature. It leads to loving and serving others.Key Point: True freedom leads to love and service, not selfishness.LDS Misconception: Evangelicals are often accused of "cheap grace."Examples:Bruce R. McConkie (Book: Mormon Doctrine (2nd ed., 1966), p. 671) : “One of the most pernicious heresies of modern Christendom is the concept that man is saved by grace alone... This concept, as interpreted by modern Christians, removes all the restraints which encourage personal righteousness and offers salvation to the sinner merely for confessing Christ.”Spencer W. Kimbal (Book: The Miracle of Forgiveness (1969), p. 206) : “One of the most fallacious doctrines originated by Satan and propounded by man is that man is saved alone by the grace of God; that belief in Jesus Christ alone is all that is needed for salvation.”True...
Ben Chally preaches from Philippians 1:3-11. Paul's introductory prayer for the church in Philippi highlights three marks of a church that has begun and remained in Christ: assurance that God completes the work He begins, affection rooted in Christ-centered fellowship, and ongoing growth in godliness through love shaped by truth and discernment. This passage serves as a call to examine our hearts in light of God's promises, to turn from anything that hinders fellowship with Christ and His church, and to continue steadfastly in Him, trusting His promises, treasuring His people, and seeking His glory. Grace Community Church exists to build spiritually healthy people for ministry in the world. One of the ways that we pursue this mission is by gathering each Sunday for corporate worship, prayer, and biblical teaching. The corporate nature of this gathering is both edifying to the believer and a witness of God's grace to the world. Sermon speaker is Scott Patty unless otherwise noted.
What if the very system you trust to bring you closer to God is actually pulling you away from His grace—and true freedom is found somewhere you might not expect? In Galatians 5, Paul reminds us that true freedom comes not from religious rule-keeping or law-based performance, but from living by the Spirit through faith in Christ alone.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Galatians 5 | True Freedom in ChristSection 1: Stand Firm in Freedom (Galatians 5:1-6)Galatians 5:1-6 (NLT)Christ has truly set us free. Paul urges us to stay free and not get tied up again in slavery—this time, not slavery to old sinful habits, but to religious legalism. Both are equally destructive.Many Mormons follow rules, believing this makes them justified before God. Paul, once a Pharisee, believed the same until he encountered Christ:Philippians 3:7-9 (NLT): Paul calls his former religious achievements "garbage" compared to knowing Christ.Relying on works, like circumcision in Paul's day or LDS temple worthiness today, cuts people off from Christ and God's grace. True righteousness comes by faith alone.Big Idea: Christ set us free—don't return to a system of religious control.Illustration: Jesus didn't come to give us a new set of religious rules. He came to set us free (Matthew 11:28-30).Section 2: The Danger of Legalism (Galatians 5:7-12)Galatians 5:7-12 (NLT)The Galatians were running well until false teachers led them astray, adding law-keeping to the gospel. Paul warns that even small false teachings spread like yeast.Who holds Mormons back today? Consider the "Four Horsemen" of LDS control:LDS LeadershipLDS ScripturesLDS Temple System (worthiness interviews, temple recommends)LDS Culture and Social PressureAll these create a performance treadmill, keeping people from the simple gospel of grace.Paul is blunt: False teachers deserve judgment.Section 3: Freedom Isn't a License to Sin (Galatians 5:13-15)Galatians 5:13-15 (NLT)Freedom from the law doesn't mean freedom to indulge the sinful nature. It leads to loving and serving others.Key Point: True freedom leads to love and service, not selfishness.LDS Misconception: Evangelicals are often accused of "cheap grace."Examples:Bruce R. McConkie (Book: Mormon Doctrine (2nd ed., 1966), p. 671) : “One of the most pernicious heresies of modern Christendom is the concept that man is saved by grace alone... This concept, as interpreted by modern Christians, removes all the restraints which encourage personal righteousness and offers salvation to the sinner merely for confessing Christ.”Spencer W. Kimbal (Book: The Miracle of Forgiveness (1969), p. 206) : “One of the most fallacious doctrines originated by Satan and propounded by man is that man is saved alone by the grace of God; that belief in Jesus Christ alone is all that is needed for salvation.”True...
Rev. Patrick Donohue
In our passage we get a strong word on what it is to live in Christ during this earthly pilgrimage. And we get a very strong word on what it is to die in Christ. In this message, Pastor Rick Anderson briefly delves into both of these. The aim is to explain what it is to biblically live and die in Christ and offer some guidance in getting there.
Sermon: Captivated by Christ (Philippians 3:7-14) In a world overflowing with distractions—it's easy to lose focus on what truly matters. Americans spend over $100 billion annually on gambling, 60+ hours a year on pornography, and 2+ hours daily scrolling social media. We drop $18,000 yearly on non-essentials and fill our homes with 300,000+ items, chasing fleeting thrills and empty promises. But what if there's something worth more than all of this combined? In this message, "Captivated by Christ," a sermon from Philippians 3:7-14, the Apostle Paul reveals what it means to trade worldly captivations for the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus. From his prison cell, Paul calls his impressive past—status, achievements, everything—“rubbish” compared to Christ. His testimony challenges us: What captivates our hearts? And is it worth the cost?
The humiliation of Christ refers to the period in Jesus' life when He willingly emptied Himself and took on human form, remaining obedient to the point of death on a cross. While fully God and fully human, Jesus willingly subjected Himself to all the limitations, pain, and temptations of this world—yet without sin. His humiliation became the means by which we are offered new life - a life reoriented around Christ, one in which we are not only forgiven but also declared righteous, clothed in His perfection. In His descent, He lifted us up, securing our adoption as children of God and giving us a future grounded in His victory
Maturity in Christ | Philippians 3:15-16 | 061525 by Corey
“Not winning is in fact more powerful than winning,” professor Monica Wadhwa argues. Her research reveals that people tend to be most energized and motivated not when they win, but when they almost win. Falling just short of one’s ambitions tends to give people the motivation to keep growing and striving. Easy victories, on the other hand, tend to cripple energy and motivation. Wadhwa’s perspective gives fresh insight on Paul’s analogy comparing following Christ to running a race (1 Corinthians 10:24-27; Philippians 3:12-14). In both instances, Paul emphasizes that believers ought to give their pursuit of Christ and the gospel their all, “straining toward what is ahead” (Philippians 3:13) and running “in such a way as to get the prize” (1 Corinthians 9:24). The paradoxical truth is that what we’re striving for—faithfully sharing the gospel (v. 23) and knowing Christ (Philippians 3:8)—aren’t things we can ever say we’ve achieved. We’ll always fall short. We’ll never be able to say we’ve “already arrived” (v. 12). But that’s okay—because it’s the experience of drawing ever closer to Christ that matters. It’s only His strength that empowers and motivates us to pour our whole hearts into pursuing Him—the One who will one day carry us to victory.