Bible Study
Don’t just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Philippians 3:15–21; Mark 10:42–45.
Sermon Outline
“Do I show the world a Jesus worth crucifying?” Something like this question is what Paul wants to prompt in the hearts of his beloved Philippians. Philippi is, as we have seen, a remarkably vibrant and healthy choice, well established in the gospel of Jesus. But trouble lurks; and therefore Paul exhorts the Philippians to “walk according to the example you have in us” and not to “walk as enemies of the cross of Christ.” This is an exhortation to grow as a Christian, not just through information, but through imitation.
Feet first; fingers follow (verses 15–16)
Belly worshippers lose out (verses 17–19)Their goal
Their god
Their glory
High hope for humble people (verses 20–21)Sermon Application
How would you respond if Jesus appeared on the street? Would you treat him as a benign teacher? If not… as what?
What matters threaten to push the gospel to the periphery of your life?
Do you have a more mature (!) Christian in your life, whom you can imitate?
How is your belly?
What might it look like to entrust your leisure time to God? What guidelines could you (and if applicable, your family) cultivate to help you carry this vision out?
Ask the Holy Spirit to apply this promise of verses 20–21 to your heart. If you are in a small group, pray for this promise to be of comfort to one another.Sermon Series
Our fall sermon series is on Paul’s letter to the Church in Philippi. As we go through Philippians, you may want to consult the following commentaries for personal Bible study.
NIV Application Commentary: Philippians by Frank Thielman
New International Commentary on the New Testament: Paul’s Letter to the Philippians by Gordon FeeQuestions?
Do you have a question about today’s sermon? Email Sam Fornecker ([email protected]).