Press On in Pursuit (Philippians 3:12-21)
Gearl Spicer, July 25, 2021
Part of the Summer Of Joy - Now More Than Ever series, preached at a Sunday Online service
Philippians 3:12–21 (Listen)
12 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. 16 Only let us hold true to what we have attained.
17 Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. 18 For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.
(ESV)
Sermon Notes
Summer Of Joy - Now More Than Ever
Press On in Pursuit
Philippians 3:12-21
7/25/21
What do you pursue in life?
Inescapable energy is released when our life pursuit is exclusively Jesus!
*Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. Brethren, I do not regard myself of having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. vs. 12-14
Our pursuit should be laser focused on Jesus to insure victory through Him!
I. Priority of pursuing Jesus - vs. 12
*Our pursuit should be centered in purpose and passion for Jesus!
II. Power of a single focus - vs.13-14
*Our direction should be free of distractions that pull us away from the ultimate prize!
III. Importance of a Godly attitude - vs. 15-16
*Our perspective should be guided by openness and obedience that leads to maturity!
IV. Walk in the pattern of obedience - vs. 17-19
*Our design should be focused on models of godliness and not earthly issues!
V. Anticipate your heavenly home - vs. 20-21
*Our eternal home should be the focal point of our ultimate transformation!
Can you identify one of these areas that demands your immediate attention?
Will you choose to press on?