In Philippians 3 the apostle Paul laid out his resume as a Jewish leader. It was a self-portrayal he willfully and gladly turned from, counting it as rubbish. Instead, he chose to pursue Christ wherein he found exceptional blessings and benefits. With determination Paul pursued perfection and attainment in Christ, seeking to be an imitator…
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Exchanging Failure and Pride for the Hope of Heaven
In Philippians 3:7-8, Paul spoke about setting aside the things which were significant to him so he might gain Christ. He then mentioned the great blessings which were found in the Lord (verses 8-11). Our text this week (v 12-14) has Paul discussing growth in faith and the pursuit of salvation in heaven.
Exploring the Six Great Blessings in Christ
In Philippians 3:7-8, Paul willingly denounced the things which defined him as a Pharisee. His position as a Jewish leader could not avail the exceptional benefits which are in Christ Jesus, for the things which Paul discovered in the Lord are far greater than what was his in Judaism. Herein we will notice six things…
Power of the Gospel: Losing All To Gain Christ
In Philippians 3:5-6, Paul provided a concise synopsis of himself, essentially his resume as a Pharisee. It encompassed what was typical of any Hebrew male (circumcision), but also things peculiar to the religious elite (inordinate zeal and chastity). At one time, Paul found gratification and self-worth in this grandious and venerated role. In fact, he…
One Cannot Receive Jesus And Reject His Word
…if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day.—…
May We Not Transgress the Bible by Our Traditions
Then the scribes and Pharisees who were from Jerusalem came to Jesus, saying,‘Why do Your disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? For they do notwash their hands when they eat bread.’ He answered and said to them, ‘Whydo you also transgress the commandments of God because of your tradition?— Matthew 15:1-3 — The Pharisees…
God’s Word is Living and Powerful
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than anytwo-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit;and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts andintents of the heart.— Hebrews 4:12 — The Bible is an old book—a really old book. As such, some might wonder…
Use the Word of Truth with Caution
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.—2 Timothy 2:15— Approval before God is not something which happens accidentally. Notice first, Paul cites the need for diligence. If we are prone to idleness and indifference, the end result will not…
The Pharisee and the Tax Collector, Jesus’ Parables
It’s important for a speaker to know his audience. Of any speaker, we should expect that Jesus knew how to read an audience, and we see His ability to do so displayed several times in the gospels. To introduce the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, Luke reveals that Jesus knew those who…
Increase Our Faith, Jesus’ Parables
Having heard the Lord talk about offenses and the need to forgive, Peter asked Him, …how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times? (Matthew 18:21) Peter likely thought he was being charitable, but Jesus told him not seven, but seventy times seven. Jesus gave a similar teaching…