An Unnatural Way to Live
What is the cure for gossip and slander? What is the remedy for pride, envy, and vain ambition? Paul gives us the answer in Philippians 2:2-4.
The Vanishing Virtue
Paul is under house arrest. He is isolated from his friends. Church leaders in Rome have abandoned him. Yet, strangely, he isn't longing for freedom or praying for comforts. His sole desire is to see the Church of God being unified in humility.
On the Whitewater of Grace
In this sermon, we explored the metaphor of whitewater rafting to illustrate the Christian journey, emphasizing that the turbulent waters of life are not only inevitable but also essential for spiritual growth and protection. Drawing from Philippians 1:28-30, the sermon highlighted the importance of staying in the rough waters of trials and tribulations rather than seeking the false safety of stagnation, which can be spiritually deadly. The Apostle Paul's teachings remind us that opposition and suffering are not signs of God's abandonment but rather evidence of our genuine discipleship and God's refining work in our lives. We are called to repair disunity, reject disengagement, and refuse disheartening perspectives, understanding that salvation is a gift, suffering is a privilege, and trials are to be expected.
No Room for Superstars
In this sermon, we explored the concept of unity within the church, drawing parallels from the world of sports to illustrate the importance of teamwork and collective effort. Using the story of the 1981 Los Angeles Lakers, we saw how the "disease of me" can lead to disunity and failure. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, emphasizes that the church should act as a unified body, committed to the same desire, moving in the same direction, and delivering the same declaration of faith. Paul uses metaphors of an army and a sports team to illustrate how the church should stand firm in one spirit, strive together with one mind, and work collectively for the faith of the gospel. The sermon challenges us to reject isolation, embrace our roles within the church, and work together to advance the gospel and glorify Christ.
The Main Thing
In this sermon, Pastor Stephen Davey emphasizes the importance of keeping the main focus of the Christian life on living in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Using the legend of Atlanta and Hippomenes, he illustrates how distractions can lead us away from our primary goal. Paul's letter to the Philippians, particularly Philippians 1:27, serves as the foundation for this message. Paul urges believers to live as worthy citizens of the gospel, much like the Philippians took pride in their Roman citizenship. This involves being highly devoted to God's purposes, avoiding actions that discredit the church, and maintaining unity within the Christian community. Pastor Davey underscores the importance of unity and the collective strength it brings, using the metaphor of Roman soldiers standing firm together. He concludes by offering practical ways to foster unity and live out the gospel effectively.
Stay!
What kept Paul strong in the face of constant beatings, riots and imprisonment? What got him up in the morning and kept him content at night? Stephen brings us the emphatic answer as he continues his study of Philippians.
Ready for Either
Paul wasn't just given a vision of Heaven;; he was actually taken there firsthand! He saw with his own eyes what God had in store for him after his death. So how was he able to remain content in the face of imprisonment, chains, and beatings? Paul himself tells us in Philippians 1:21-26.
Pray for Me
How confident are you in your prayers? I don't mean how confident are you in yourself or in your own ability to pray; I mean how confident are you that God will answer? Stephen shows us what true confidence in God looks like as he takes us back to Paul's remarkable letter to the Philippians.
Modeling a Godly Response to Mud Part 2
Did you know that many Christians in the early Church abandoned Paul? They didn't come to his defense. They gossiped about him. Some even considered his suffering a judgment from God! But as surprising as that is, what is more surprising is the way Paul responded to it.
Modeling a Godly Response to Mud Part 1
Did you know that many Christians in the early Church abandoned Paul? They didn't come to his defense. They gossiped about him. Some even considered his suffering a judgment from God! But as surprising as that is, what is more surprising is the way Paul responded to it.