130 likes | 234 Views
Dive into the book of Philippians 1:27-30 with Jay Brennan as he highlights the importance of living a life aligned with the gospel. Explore practical insights on unity, boldness, and sacrifice for a meaningful Christian walk.
E N D
Joy in the Trenches Philippians 1:27-30 by: Jay Brennan
3 Brief Observations • Salvation to be real must change the way we live • Unbelievers draw conclusions about Jesus Christ by the way we live • In an increasingly pagan climate, we can make a huge impact by the way we live.
Enormous Challenge “conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel.” v.27
Key Words • “only” – “just one thing” • “worthy” - “to even the beam” • “conduct” – “live as citizens of heaven”
5 Ways to Live Lives Worthy of the Gospel • Stand without Division • Strive without Compromise • Speak without Fear • Sacrifice without Shame • Struggle with Others
1. Stand without Division • An exhortation to spiritual solidarity. • Stand together in one spirit • John 17: 23 • Standing without division is the heartbeat of heaven....and the lifeblood of the church
2. Strive without Compromise • To compete as a team to advance the gospel message. • Dietrich Bonhoeffer in his book Life Together -4 Principles: • Hold their tongue • Cultivate Humility • Listen long and patiently • Consider your time as belonging to others
2. Strive without Compromise (cont.) • We are to unitedly join hearts and hands using all our resources to spread the gospel. • This is a call for nothing less than aggressive Christianity • God’s Word: Go Forward!
3. Speak without Fear v.28 • You are going to be opposed – speak up anyway. • Opposition to the gospel reveals spiritual reality • Have you annoyed anyone today? • “Don’t fear the mighty army you see arrayed against you. Though they have far more soldiers, you have something they don’t. You have Immanuel on your side.” Isaiah 8:12 • You + God = More
4. Sacrifice without Shame v29 • “granted” = grace or favor • Salvation and Suffering are grace gifts • Salvation comes from the Lord and so does suffering
Suffering • Suffering matures us.James 1:2-4 • Suffering weans us from self-reliance.2 Corinthians 1:9 • Suffering is an evangelistic tool. Philippians 1:12 • Suffering helps us minister to others. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4: • Suffering helps keep down pride. 2 Corinthians 12:7: • Suffering shows we belong to Christ. Phil 3:10:
5. Struggling with Others v.30 • We are in this fight together. • Every believer is struggling in some way – you are not alone in your agony. • Would you like to make an impact in this world for Jesus? …….Just One Thing: • You’re a citizen of Heaven – Live like it!
Summary • Stand without Division • Strive without Compromise • Speak without Fear • Sacrifice without Shame • Struggle with Others