God has pursued me. Do I want to pursue Him? At the end of Paul’s life he is still seeking God!

1 – By Being Joyful (vs 1)

Christian joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. In the midst of all kind of situations we have joy. Christian joy is a supernatural delight in God’s person and goodness.

2 – By Being Watchful (vs 2)

There are many cul-de-sac experiences. Paul is specific. Gentiles were often called “dogs”. Paul throws it back in their faces. It was now a circumcision of the heart, not of the flesh. These people were preaching another Gospel. It was Christ plus something else. You need faith alone in Christ alone. Church tradition does not save. Legalism ties you up in knots and takes away your joy. Paul has to confront Peter. These thieves can rob you of your joy. Where has all your joy gone? Be watchful.

3 – By Being Boastful (vs 3-6)

Paul was a true Israelite. If anyone could have been justified by the law it would have been Paul. God had to stop Paul on the Damascus road. Worship is primarily internal and secondarily external. (vs 3). Worship is from the heart and not just a habit. (vs 4-6).

4 – By Being Christ Centred (vs 7-8)

Paul compares the past with the present. The past was rubbish. We need a Christ-centred mind set. We need a deep knowledge of Christ. Do you want to be with Christ? Are you in running in the race in hot pursuit of Jesus?

Categories: Philippians