Sunday, October 26, 2008

Pressing on to Real Life

Pastor Doug's sermon this morning was based on Paul's letter to the Philippians 3:12 - 4:1. This letter is a thank you note from Paul to the church at Philippi in response to their gift to him while he was in a Roman jail.
Amusing us with several famous Yogi Berra quotes, Doug launched into his sermon with "It ain't over till it's over," asserting that our spiritual walk with the Lord is not over until it is over. Sanctification is a work in progress, completed when we are glorified in death. Real life is to be used of God in the work of expanding and enhancing His kingdom.

Paul as Example
1. Paul saw himself as incomplete. (Phil. 3:12)
2. He saw that what was before him was more important than what was behind. (v. 13) We must not live in the past.
3. Paul saw himself as an example to others. (v. 17)
4. He saw a definite difference between holy living and the world. (v. 18)
Conclusion: Paul saw himself as encouraging others to stand firm. Phil. 4:1 Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.

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