WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:02.500 we'll turn together to Philippians. 00:00:04.500 --> 00:00:06.060 Philippians has four chapters. 00:00:07.020 --> 00:00:09.500 With God's help, today we will finish chapter 3. 00:00:11.880 --> 00:00:15.400 And so our sermon text for today is Philippians chapter 3, 00:00:15.519 --> 00:00:16.839 starting at verse 12. 00:00:23.480 --> 00:00:24.879 Philippians in the New Testament, 00:00:26.019 --> 00:00:28.539 a letter from Paul to the church in Philippi. 00:00:28.539 --> 00:00:30.160 It was called Little Rome. 00:00:30.460 --> 00:00:34.600 It was a colony of Rome in Macedonia or Greece. 00:00:40.359 --> 00:00:45.000 Well, I read our sermon text trusting that this is God's word for his people, 00:00:45.379 --> 00:00:48.879 that it's inspired, inerrant, infallible, it's clear, 00:00:49.140 --> 00:00:51.599 and it is sufficient for us as people. 00:00:52.079 --> 00:00:54.000 If you receive it that way, when I'm done reading, 00:00:54.100 --> 00:00:57.299 I'll say this is the word of God, and you can say thanks be to God. 00:00:58.539 --> 00:01:02.240 Philippians 3, 12 through 21. 00:01:02.240 --> 00:01:08.299 For context, Paul had just encouraged the Philippians 00:01:08.299 --> 00:01:11.180 that their righteousness is found in Christ alone. 00:01:11.980 --> 00:01:14.439 Now in verse 12, he picks up the thought and he says, 00:01:14.439 --> 00:01:23.679 not that I have already obtained this, speaking of the resurrection from the dead and Christlikeness, 00:01:24.179 --> 00:01:29.480 but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 00:01:30.280 --> 00:01:35.719 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own, but one thing I desire, 00:01:35.719 --> 00:01:40.859 forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead. 00:01:40.859 --> 00:01:47.519 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 00:01:48.459 --> 00:01:50.780 Let those of us who are mature think this way, 00:01:51.219 --> 00:01:55.400 and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal it also to you. 00:01:55.980 --> 00:01:59.519 Only let us hold true to what we have attained. 00:01:59.519 --> 00:02:03.299 Brothers, join me in imitating me. 00:02:04.000 --> 00:02:10.799 Join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. 00:02:11.259 --> 00:02:16.780 For many of whom I have often told you, and now tell you even with tears, 00:02:17.439 --> 00:02:19.879 walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. 00:02:20.859 --> 00:02:22.900 Their end is destruction. 00:02:23.659 --> 00:02:26.800 Their God is their belly, and their glory is their shame. 00:02:26.800 --> 00:02:32.439 With minds set on earthly things, but our citizenship is in heaven, 00:02:32.820 --> 00:02:36.980 and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 00:02:37.560 --> 00:02:42.060 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body 00:02:42.060 --> 00:02:47.960 by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. 00:02:48.439 --> 00:02:49.560 The word of God. 00:02:50.980 --> 00:02:51.700 Amen. 00:02:52.180 --> 00:02:52.860 You may be seated. 00:02:52.860 --> 00:02:59.320 The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of the Lord stands forever. 00:03:00.880 --> 00:03:06.320 Luke 1.37, Gabriel, who ministers in the presence of God, said, 00:03:06.560 --> 00:03:09.880 No word from God shall be void of power. 00:03:10.720 --> 00:03:13.240 May it be so with his word again today for his glory. 00:03:15.520 --> 00:03:16.200 Let's pray. 00:03:16.200 --> 00:03:16.280 Amen. 00:03:16.280 --> 00:03:16.320 Amen. 00:03:22.860 --> 00:03:28.080 Lord, these are your precious people. 00:03:29.200 --> 00:03:32.500 These are the souls that you purchased and called to yourself. 00:03:33.820 --> 00:03:36.680 I pray that through the ministry of the word, 00:03:36.820 --> 00:03:39.500 the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ, 00:03:40.380 --> 00:03:42.720 you will continue to raise us up, 00:03:43.400 --> 00:03:44.880 to call us heavenward, 00:03:44.879 --> 00:03:50.240 to strengthen us with your power that's able to subdue all things, 00:03:50.900 --> 00:03:53.199 that we will march following King Jesus. 00:03:54.099 --> 00:03:56.840 We thank you that your kingdom is advancing, 00:03:57.319 --> 00:03:59.780 that you are the one who crushes the enemy. 00:04:00.159 --> 00:04:02.879 It's your spirit that wields the sword, 00:04:03.500 --> 00:04:04.680 which is the word of God. 00:04:05.120 --> 00:04:06.439 We pray that you would do that, Lord, 00:04:06.500 --> 00:04:09.039 mightily for your glory and your honor, 00:04:09.139 --> 00:04:10.460 we ask in our lives today. 00:04:10.840 --> 00:04:11.120 Amen. 00:04:11.120 --> 00:04:11.259 Amen. 00:04:11.259 --> 00:04:17.060 One of my good memories in college was I had one year 00:04:17.060 --> 00:04:18.920 where my brother and I were roommates. 00:04:19.539 --> 00:04:20.199 I was a senior. 00:04:20.319 --> 00:04:20.980 He was a freshman. 00:04:21.480 --> 00:04:23.300 And we got to do several trips. 00:04:23.420 --> 00:04:25.139 We had to go see Grandma and stuff like that. 00:04:25.180 --> 00:04:30.759 So we got an audio book of that historical work 00:04:30.759 --> 00:04:34.259 where they took all the, like, letters and primary sources 00:04:34.259 --> 00:04:38.199 from World War II soldiers that had dropped in behind enemy lines 00:04:38.199 --> 00:04:39.439 and taken out the artillery, 00:04:39.439 --> 00:04:43.000 clearing the path for the D-Day invasion of Normandy. 00:04:43.680 --> 00:04:45.420 And that series was called Band of Brothers. 00:04:46.100 --> 00:04:48.560 And so my brother and I, listening to this audio book, 00:04:48.639 --> 00:04:49.899 it's one of those sweet memories. 00:04:50.060 --> 00:04:51.759 And so many of those stories come back to me. 00:04:53.680 --> 00:04:59.480 It tells about the 101st Airborne Division of the Army. 00:04:59.480 --> 00:05:05.780 Their mission is to be the air assault branch of the Army. 00:05:06.460 --> 00:05:10.040 They go to basic airborne course in Kentucky. 00:05:10.980 --> 00:05:14.980 And it's an intensive time of training at a very high standard. 00:05:15.540 --> 00:05:16.980 The stakes are extremely high. 00:05:17.680 --> 00:05:23.020 They have to pay meticulous detail to practice every element of their training. 00:05:23.019 --> 00:05:28.500 And it culminates with them doing a live, unassisted parachute invasion. 00:05:30.639 --> 00:05:36.120 In verse 17 of our sermon text, Paul speaks to the church like an army. 00:05:36.979 --> 00:05:40.319 He says, we have a pattern for walking together. 00:05:40.319 --> 00:05:44.199 What's it called when a group of people walk together in a pattern? 00:05:44.599 --> 00:05:45.339 That's a march. 00:05:46.939 --> 00:05:49.579 And so King Jesus, the commander of the Lord's Army, 00:05:49.719 --> 00:05:53.860 uses lieutenants like Paul to speak to his church, 00:05:53.899 --> 00:05:56.639 just like a boot camp for the 101st Battalion, 00:05:56.879 --> 00:05:58.659 to raise them up, to train them, 00:05:58.660 --> 00:06:02.680 to get them to see the urgency of pressing on 00:06:02.680 --> 00:06:05.180 and learning to march following King Jesus. 00:06:05.680 --> 00:06:07.480 That's what Paul does in this passage. 00:06:08.280 --> 00:06:12.260 So my encouragement for us today, if Jesus is your king, 00:06:13.260 --> 00:06:17.740 it's to see in this passage how he trains his army to march. 00:06:18.860 --> 00:06:22.220 How King Jesus trains his army to march. 00:06:23.780 --> 00:06:26.440 I'm not skilled enough to use alliteration every time. 00:06:26.520 --> 00:06:28.340 This time it worked out more or less. 00:06:28.339 --> 00:06:30.839 So there will be four things you can listen for. 00:06:30.919 --> 00:06:35.399 Number one, King Jesus' promise to his army, his promise. 00:06:36.060 --> 00:06:37.199 Number two, the pattern. 00:06:38.419 --> 00:06:41.479 Number three, it's a warning to be prudent. 00:06:42.019 --> 00:06:44.599 And finally, it's King Jesus' power. 00:06:45.459 --> 00:06:48.079 So promise, pattern, prudence, and power. 00:06:49.459 --> 00:06:56.179 Number one, King Jesus raises up his army with a heavenly promise. 00:06:57.179 --> 00:06:58.259 A heavenly promise. 00:06:59.199 --> 00:07:01.239 Look at verse 12 of our sermon text. 00:07:01.500 --> 00:07:02.579 Philippians 3.12. 00:07:03.199 --> 00:07:06.099 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, 00:07:06.259 --> 00:07:08.639 but I press on to make it my own. 00:07:08.739 --> 00:07:09.619 What's he talking about? 00:07:09.739 --> 00:07:11.199 What is it that he's pressing on toward? 00:07:12.039 --> 00:07:14.739 Because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 00:07:15.539 --> 00:07:18.959 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own, 00:07:18.959 --> 00:07:24.939 but one thing I do, forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead. 00:07:25.019 --> 00:07:26.199 Verse 14. 00:07:26.199 --> 00:07:34.299 I press on toward the goal of the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 00:07:34.300 --> 00:07:38.540 He says, 00:07:38.540 --> 00:07:43.360 not that I have already attained this goal that I'm pressing on toward. 00:07:43.700 --> 00:07:45.660 What do we think he's speaking about? 00:07:46.540 --> 00:07:49.600 If you get context, take a look back at verse 8. 00:07:49.600 --> 00:07:51.600 So Philippians 3, verse 8. 00:07:52.879 --> 00:08:00.740 He has said he considers everything else rubbish compared to the excellence of knowing Christ Jesus, my Lord. 00:08:01.460 --> 00:08:02.480 In verse 9, he says, 00:08:02.480 --> 00:08:06.939 There's no greater treasure than being found in him, Christ Jesus. 00:08:07.879 --> 00:08:12.860 So he already knows that his righteousness is Christ's righteousness covering him. 00:08:12.980 --> 00:08:14.220 He's found in Christ. 00:08:14.860 --> 00:08:19.520 So he's not trying to strive and press on to find a righteousness for himself. 00:08:19.700 --> 00:08:20.540 He already has that. 00:08:20.900 --> 00:08:27.100 And there's no greater treasure than the excellency of knowing Christ Jesus as his Lord, as his King. 00:08:27.480 --> 00:08:30.160 Those two things are not up for dispute. 00:08:30.160 --> 00:08:32.060 Those are secure by Christ. 00:08:32.059 --> 00:08:33.919 So what is he pressing on toward? 00:08:34.000 --> 00:08:34.699 What is the goal? 00:08:38.139 --> 00:08:41.199 In verse 10, if you'll look there, he says, 00:08:41.739 --> 00:08:46.000 Being conformed to his death, to the death of Christ. 00:08:46.079 --> 00:08:50.379 In verse 11, to attain the resurrection from the dead. 00:08:52.359 --> 00:08:55.199 See, the last enemy to be destroyed is death. 00:08:56.639 --> 00:08:58.899 And Paul will die physically. 00:08:58.899 --> 00:09:08.699 But in his death, he knows he will be found in Christ, having a righteousness which is from God by faith in Christ Jesus. 00:09:09.079 --> 00:09:11.379 So he knows those promises are there for him. 00:09:11.620 --> 00:09:15.139 Well, then what is it that he says is the goal that he's pressing on toward? 00:09:15.139 --> 00:09:23.039 It's what will happen in his life right now between this moment when he's writing this and praying for this and that final day on earth. 00:09:23.740 --> 00:09:28.639 So he's asking to be more like Christ now while God can still sanctify him. 00:09:28.639 --> 00:09:31.139 That's what he's pressing on toward. 00:09:31.559 --> 00:09:35.080 And this is a heavenly call with the promise attached to it. 00:09:35.100 --> 00:09:35.860 It's so wonderful. 00:09:36.799 --> 00:09:38.319 He also is very careful to say, 00:09:38.439 --> 00:09:43.340 Not that I have already attained it or I'm not perfect already. 00:09:43.460 --> 00:09:44.659 I'm definitely not. 00:09:44.659 --> 00:09:48.799 I'm not yet matured or completed or finished. 00:09:49.039 --> 00:09:52.199 I want to be more conformed to Christ's death. 00:09:53.719 --> 00:09:55.600 See, Paul is no different than you and me. 00:09:55.679 --> 00:09:58.500 And the letter to Romans chapter 7 makes it very clear. 00:09:58.959 --> 00:10:02.600 There is still a battle between the spirit and the flesh. 00:10:03.299 --> 00:10:08.799 The spirit is united to Christ, but the flesh, it doesn't do the things I should be doing. 00:10:08.959 --> 00:10:11.019 And it does the things I know I shouldn't be doing. 00:10:11.679 --> 00:10:13.059 There's a battle going on. 00:10:13.059 --> 00:10:15.199 And Paul says, I am not perfect. 00:10:15.339 --> 00:10:19.979 I've not attained that completeness of Christ's likeness yet. 00:10:20.059 --> 00:10:23.399 I want to be more like Christ in his death to his flesh. 00:10:23.459 --> 00:10:24.279 I'm not there yet. 00:10:25.019 --> 00:10:26.219 That's what Paul says. 00:10:28.500 --> 00:10:30.599 But he says, I press on. 00:10:31.139 --> 00:10:36.899 I press on in my sanctification, in my desire to be more like Christ. 00:10:37.359 --> 00:10:41.119 And that phrase, press on, it's a metaphor for a foot race. 00:10:41.120 --> 00:10:44.000 We could challenge our teenagers. 00:10:44.139 --> 00:10:46.480 I'll race you from here to the far side of that field. 00:10:47.399 --> 00:10:49.000 And they would win every time. 00:10:49.100 --> 00:10:49.960 But we would press on. 00:10:50.120 --> 00:10:52.700 We would keep our eyes and run that foot race. 00:10:53.980 --> 00:10:56.519 A distance runner, your muscles are going to start burning. 00:10:56.960 --> 00:10:57.899 But I press on. 00:10:59.480 --> 00:11:01.220 My body, it's sacrificing. 00:11:01.560 --> 00:11:03.060 But I'm pushing the pace. 00:11:03.059 --> 00:11:07.959 I'm doing my best to keep going one foot in front of the other. 00:11:08.879 --> 00:11:12.459 And if it's really long, the jog becomes a march. 00:11:13.119 --> 00:11:14.319 But I march on. 00:11:14.959 --> 00:11:16.199 We press on. 00:11:17.019 --> 00:11:18.699 That's his encouragement to us. 00:11:19.019 --> 00:11:20.739 Because none of us are there yet. 00:11:21.279 --> 00:11:22.099 We're still breathing. 00:11:22.319 --> 00:11:23.339 We're still in this flesh. 00:11:23.479 --> 00:11:24.399 There's still a battle. 00:11:24.399 --> 00:11:26.980 I press on. 00:11:28.699 --> 00:11:36.480 He says that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. 00:11:37.639 --> 00:11:40.539 Let's take the second part of that statement first. 00:11:41.819 --> 00:11:44.840 Christ Jesus laid hold of Paul. 00:11:46.439 --> 00:11:49.159 Has Christ Jesus laid hold of you? 00:11:49.159 --> 00:11:55.159 The phrase he uses has kind of a tone of surprise. 00:11:56.179 --> 00:11:58.299 You know, like he seized me unexpectedly. 00:11:59.259 --> 00:12:03.659 Well, we know in Paul's story, that was when he was going to kill more Christians and arrest them. 00:12:04.299 --> 00:12:08.480 On the road to Damascus, the Lord Jesus appears with light. 00:12:09.079 --> 00:12:10.919 Says, why are you persecuting me? 00:12:11.939 --> 00:12:12.879 He seized him. 00:12:13.539 --> 00:12:16.539 And ever since that moment, Paul's life was not the same. 00:12:16.539 --> 00:12:20.379 And Christ Jesus had laid hold of Paul. 00:12:21.779 --> 00:12:26.980 And Christ Jesus is now personal Lord of Paul. 00:12:27.480 --> 00:12:29.059 He calls him my Lord. 00:12:30.480 --> 00:12:32.519 In verse 13, Paul writes, brethren. 00:12:33.480 --> 00:12:36.000 Now, remember our previous context here. 00:12:36.099 --> 00:12:44.599 He's warning the Philippians there's going to be these legalists that are going to try to come on and burden you in the flesh with all kinds of things that are not the commands of Christ. 00:12:44.600 --> 00:12:50.440 And even though he's the Jew of Jews, Hebrews of Hebrews, Pharisee of Pharisees, he says, you're my brothers. 00:12:51.100 --> 00:12:52.600 You Gentile Philippians. 00:12:53.500 --> 00:12:54.960 You're my brothers and sisters. 00:12:55.420 --> 00:12:56.120 I'm with you. 00:12:56.580 --> 00:12:58.800 The gospel and Jesus Christ, that's who we are. 00:12:59.399 --> 00:13:00.019 Verse 13. 00:13:00.279 --> 00:13:06.720 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended it, but one thing I do. 00:13:06.720 --> 00:13:11.160 He says, one thing I do, then he lists two things. 00:13:12.040 --> 00:13:12.700 Why is that? 00:13:14.200 --> 00:13:15.720 It's because it's one motion. 00:13:17.300 --> 00:13:19.700 You can only run in one direction or another. 00:13:20.899 --> 00:13:26.000 You can only run forward if you're pressing on toward Jesus Christ. 00:13:26.000 --> 00:13:29.279 And he says, like a runner, I'm not looking backward. 00:13:29.860 --> 00:13:33.539 I forget the things that are behind. 00:13:34.799 --> 00:13:41.159 If you're always looking to see where's the next person or comparing yourself, looking all around, you will not have your eyes set on one thing. 00:13:42.519 --> 00:13:46.639 And he uses the present, continual, active tense. 00:13:47.500 --> 00:13:47.980 Forgetting. 00:13:47.980 --> 00:13:49.940 Why is that? 00:13:50.860 --> 00:13:52.779 It's because Satan is the accuser. 00:13:53.480 --> 00:13:54.980 He wants to accuse us to ourselves. 00:13:55.440 --> 00:13:56.840 He wants to accuse God to us. 00:13:56.920 --> 00:13:58.740 He wants to accuse other Christians to us. 00:13:59.840 --> 00:14:06.200 And we need to be actively forgetting those things that Satan is trying to accuse us of or distract us with. 00:14:06.620 --> 00:14:12.060 We're actively, continually, right now, in the practice of forgetting those distractions. 00:14:12.059 --> 00:14:18.379 And pressing on forward toward that which is ahead. 00:14:20.339 --> 00:14:21.579 It says reaching. 00:14:22.419 --> 00:14:25.719 You know, forgetting what's behind, but reaching or stretching forward. 00:14:26.459 --> 00:14:30.239 Picture, you know, Eric Little, Chariots of Fire, that last thing. 00:14:30.359 --> 00:14:34.979 He throws his head back and reaches for that final line to cross. 00:14:35.879 --> 00:14:36.819 What's ahead? 00:14:36.820 --> 00:14:40.200 In verse 14, he says, I press toward the goal. 00:14:41.280 --> 00:14:43.480 On a hundred yard dash, it's a straight shot. 00:14:43.560 --> 00:14:47.040 There's no curves and you can see that line that you need to get to. 00:14:47.560 --> 00:14:49.460 And that's the goal in a foot race. 00:14:49.520 --> 00:14:51.440 You keep your eye on the line. 00:14:52.940 --> 00:14:53.780 Undivided focus. 00:14:53.980 --> 00:14:55.520 That's where I'm running to. 00:14:56.540 --> 00:15:06.680 It's the marker at the end of the race upon which you fix your eyes for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 00:15:07.820 --> 00:15:11.580 So you fix your eyes on the call. 00:15:13.480 --> 00:15:14.920 In Christ Jesus. 00:15:15.860 --> 00:15:21.620 See, the eyes of faith are watching Jesus Christ, the forerunner, the firstborn from the dead. 00:15:22.180 --> 00:15:23.680 Our eyes are fixed on him. 00:15:24.300 --> 00:15:30.040 And it's him through his word, through his Holy Spirit, calling us upward, onward toward Christ. 00:15:30.520 --> 00:15:31.560 Toward that finish line. 00:15:31.559 --> 00:15:42.239 In 1 Corinthians 9, 24 and 25, Paul told the church, run that you may obtain the prize. 00:15:42.719 --> 00:15:49.219 Every athlete exercises self-control in all things and they do it to receive a perishable wreath. 00:15:50.000 --> 00:15:50.899 There's the analogy. 00:15:50.899 --> 00:15:57.100 We're watching in these Greek cities, these Olympic games, and you watch these extremely disciplined athletes. 00:15:57.860 --> 00:16:01.840 Picture like someone training for an MMA fight where they've got to make a certain weight. 00:16:01.939 --> 00:16:04.360 I mean, they're beating their bodies to be ready. 00:16:04.860 --> 00:16:05.879 And it's perishable. 00:16:05.879 --> 00:16:13.019 In the Greek world, it was that wreath made out of, you know, green leaves like that that would go on the head. 00:16:13.519 --> 00:16:14.639 Talk about perishable. 00:16:14.779 --> 00:16:16.639 Leave it out a couple days and it's already brown. 00:16:17.779 --> 00:16:18.580 That's the image. 00:16:18.659 --> 00:16:25.039 But he says, the wreath that will go on the head of my people running after Christ Jesus. 00:16:25.220 --> 00:16:26.519 It's imperishable. 00:16:26.519 --> 00:16:29.539 We don't even know anything imperishable. 00:16:29.639 --> 00:16:33.699 Everything that's created can be destroyed or transformed and changed. 00:16:35.960 --> 00:16:39.120 Has Christ Jesus laid hold of you? 00:16:40.779 --> 00:16:45.360 Can you say like Paul, Jesus, my Lord. 00:16:47.340 --> 00:16:51.639 Christ Jesus purchased you who believe with his own blood. 00:16:54.100 --> 00:16:55.980 Christ dispossessed Satan. 00:16:56.519 --> 00:16:57.379 Of your soul. 00:16:58.559 --> 00:17:00.939 He disarmed the strong man and took you. 00:17:01.439 --> 00:17:01.919 You're his. 00:17:03.779 --> 00:17:09.779 His spirit entered into you to dwell in your body as his tabernacle. 00:17:11.539 --> 00:17:15.299 Christ Jesus, has he taken up his residence in you? 00:17:15.819 --> 00:17:17.720 Can you call him my Lord? 00:17:19.819 --> 00:17:26.279 If Christ Jesus has laid hold of you, then you too will press on to take hold of the Christ likeness. 00:17:26.519 --> 00:17:29.559 For which Christ took hold of you. 00:17:29.559 --> 00:17:38.680 You too, in verse 14, you will press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 00:17:39.400 --> 00:17:42.680 That crown that's a symbol of victory and honor. 00:17:42.680 --> 00:17:46.460 It represents the ultimate reward of running a race. 00:17:46.460 --> 00:17:50.759 Paul says Christ already laid hold of you. 00:17:51.259 --> 00:17:53.600 He already secured the prize for you. 00:17:53.599 --> 00:17:58.639 In 2 Timothy 4.8, Paul said, 00:17:58.640 --> 00:18:05.720 There is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day. 00:18:05.720 --> 00:18:11.560 And not to me only, but also to all who have loved Christ's first coming. 00:18:12.180 --> 00:18:15.480 The promise is for everyone who loves Jesus. 00:18:16.360 --> 00:18:18.780 Christ already has your crown. 00:18:18.920 --> 00:18:20.040 He's already redeemed you. 00:18:20.039 --> 00:18:23.240 He's the judge waiting at the end. 00:18:23.680 --> 00:18:26.399 Who will judge all who ever live. 00:18:26.940 --> 00:18:31.720 And he says, this one has already received the prize of life. 00:18:32.220 --> 00:18:34.119 They already get the victor's wreath. 00:18:34.980 --> 00:18:35.940 Well, how can that be? 00:18:36.539 --> 00:18:39.139 If you're a judge that's just, how can that be? 00:18:40.279 --> 00:18:43.539 And it's because Jesus Christ put the crown of thorns on his head. 00:18:44.440 --> 00:18:46.299 Take the punishment that we deserved. 00:18:46.299 --> 00:18:49.740 He made himself low and the Father highly exalted him. 00:18:50.480 --> 00:18:52.799 And crowned him with glory and honor. 00:18:53.680 --> 00:18:56.279 So he can turn around and bless you. 00:18:57.159 --> 00:18:58.799 This is the upward call. 00:19:00.299 --> 00:19:04.279 There was a pastor in a congregation in an inner city of a big city. 00:19:05.500 --> 00:19:07.059 And these people had a lot of needs. 00:19:07.319 --> 00:19:10.899 It was, you know, it was an area where their families were very broken up. 00:19:11.019 --> 00:19:11.919 Children were neglected. 00:19:12.539 --> 00:19:13.279 A lot of needs. 00:19:13.279 --> 00:19:19.180 And someone asked this pastor after decades of serving and ministering Christ to that church. 00:19:19.599 --> 00:19:22.299 How have you seen this congregation mature in the Lord? 00:19:23.059 --> 00:19:24.720 And he gave this beautiful image. 00:19:25.559 --> 00:19:30.299 He said, I take the crown that Christ has purchased and I put it above their head. 00:19:31.059 --> 00:19:33.639 And the Holy Spirit grows them into that crown. 00:19:34.579 --> 00:19:38.920 And then his word calls us to lift that crown slightly up a little bit more in this life. 00:19:38.960 --> 00:19:42.160 And you watch the Holy Spirit grow them into that crown. 00:19:42.160 --> 00:19:44.420 Again and again and again. 00:19:44.920 --> 00:19:47.320 Keep proclaiming Christ and his glory. 00:19:47.420 --> 00:19:52.759 And the congregation grows into that which Christ has already secured for them. 00:19:53.779 --> 00:19:57.800 King Jesus raises up his army with this heavenly promise. 00:19:58.519 --> 00:19:59.940 You know me now by faith. 00:20:00.340 --> 00:20:02.240 You will know me one day fully. 00:20:02.240 --> 00:20:05.120 I have grabbed a hold of you now. 00:20:05.500 --> 00:20:06.980 And you see me dimly. 00:20:07.380 --> 00:20:09.259 One day you will see me fully. 00:20:09.759 --> 00:20:11.099 Like unveiled faces. 00:20:11.240 --> 00:20:13.819 You will be in the presence of God consummately. 00:20:14.559 --> 00:20:15.720 That is the prize. 00:20:16.079 --> 00:20:18.519 It is more of God through Christ. 00:20:20.299 --> 00:20:23.000 And so treasure me, Jesus says. 00:20:23.460 --> 00:20:24.799 Press on toward me. 00:20:26.120 --> 00:20:28.019 Press on in me. 00:20:28.019 --> 00:20:31.099 I have secured the crown for you. 00:20:32.660 --> 00:20:33.579 Well number two. 00:20:33.700 --> 00:20:37.720 King Jesus trains his army then to march following a clear pattern. 00:20:38.279 --> 00:20:40.099 He calls us heavenward. 00:20:40.220 --> 00:20:43.519 And then he trains us to march following a clear pattern. 00:20:46.779 --> 00:20:49.920 In verse 17, there are several phrases I want to point out. 00:20:50.019 --> 00:20:51.240 One is he says join. 00:20:52.500 --> 00:20:54.400 Join in following my example. 00:20:54.400 --> 00:20:57.500 He says note those who so walk. 00:20:58.240 --> 00:21:01.160 As you have us for a pattern. 00:21:02.200 --> 00:21:03.460 Note their way of walking. 00:21:05.280 --> 00:21:07.519 Have you ever done this where you sit somewhere. 00:21:07.640 --> 00:21:08.840 Maybe a busy public place. 00:21:08.900 --> 00:21:10.600 And you just watch how people walk. 00:21:11.200 --> 00:21:13.360 I think it's a pastime not just here. 00:21:13.480 --> 00:21:14.560 But everywhere in the world. 00:21:14.740 --> 00:21:17.600 Because linguists say that every language. 00:21:17.759 --> 00:21:22.900 Every culture has dozens of words to describe ways that people walk. 00:21:22.900 --> 00:21:25.380 It's like a national pastime. 00:21:25.680 --> 00:21:27.360 Think of some examples from English. 00:21:28.560 --> 00:21:31.880 In every language we have words to describe one who lumbers. 00:21:32.560 --> 00:21:33.840 Or one who limps. 00:21:34.800 --> 00:21:36.900 We come up with words like amble. 00:21:37.360 --> 00:21:38.000 Mosey. 00:21:38.259 --> 00:21:38.860 Or plod. 00:21:39.860 --> 00:21:41.680 You might say yesterday I shuffled. 00:21:42.180 --> 00:21:43.400 Today I'm scurrying. 00:21:43.620 --> 00:21:45.160 And tomorrow hopefully I will strut. 00:21:45.740 --> 00:21:49.519 We come up with all kinds of words to describe how people walk. 00:21:49.519 --> 00:21:52.400 In 1 Corinthians 11.1 Paul says. 00:21:53.299 --> 00:21:54.220 Follow my example. 00:21:54.680 --> 00:21:55.559 My way of walking. 00:21:56.019 --> 00:21:58.859 As I follow the example of Christ. 00:21:59.599 --> 00:22:03.139 So Paul is watching the pattern that's set for him. 00:22:03.839 --> 00:22:05.180 And emulating that pattern. 00:22:05.339 --> 00:22:07.000 To the extent that I'm matching Christ. 00:22:07.299 --> 00:22:08.099 Match my walk. 00:22:08.799 --> 00:22:10.359 That's what he's saying to the church. 00:22:10.359 --> 00:22:16.219 Well who is it that is called to follow this pattern. 00:22:16.419 --> 00:22:17.559 To note what it is. 00:22:17.679 --> 00:22:19.679 And to join in walking this way. 00:22:20.419 --> 00:22:21.139 Who is it? 00:22:21.219 --> 00:22:22.139 Who is he speaking to? 00:22:23.000 --> 00:22:24.779 I think he answers that in verse 15. 00:22:24.859 --> 00:22:25.519 Would you take a look? 00:22:26.619 --> 00:22:27.919 Paul says to the church. 00:22:28.379 --> 00:22:29.539 The whole church in Philippi. 00:22:30.139 --> 00:22:31.759 Therefore let us. 00:22:31.839 --> 00:22:33.039 As many as are mature. 00:22:33.139 --> 00:22:34.240 Have this mind. 00:22:34.819 --> 00:22:36.299 That's the mind of Christ. 00:22:36.299 --> 00:22:36.740 Christ. 00:22:36.779 --> 00:22:38.980 That's the one unifying ideal. 00:22:39.419 --> 00:22:40.720 That holds the church together. 00:22:41.139 --> 00:22:42.019 The mind of Christ. 00:22:42.659 --> 00:22:43.619 And if in anything. 00:22:44.159 --> 00:22:45.379 You think otherwise. 00:22:46.139 --> 00:22:46.659 In other words. 00:22:46.740 --> 00:22:48.059 There might be lesser matters. 00:22:48.680 --> 00:22:51.159 That the mind of Christ needs to work itself out. 00:22:51.460 --> 00:22:52.220 In each of you. 00:22:52.819 --> 00:22:54.059 You might have different convictions. 00:22:54.240 --> 00:22:55.980 Or arrive at maybe the same convictions. 00:22:56.139 --> 00:22:57.200 But at different times. 00:22:58.159 --> 00:23:00.799 He says God will reveal even this to you. 00:23:01.000 --> 00:23:02.460 What a high view of the Holy Spirit. 00:23:02.940 --> 00:23:04.700 And of the church being fully equipped. 00:23:04.700 --> 00:23:07.400 The Spirit will help you work that out. 00:23:08.880 --> 00:23:11.259 But you have the mind of Christ. 00:23:12.180 --> 00:23:13.500 In Ephesians 1.17. 00:23:13.779 --> 00:23:16.279 He says I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:23:16.400 --> 00:23:17.380 The Father of glory. 00:23:17.880 --> 00:23:19.360 May give you the spirit of wisdom. 00:23:19.779 --> 00:23:20.680 And of revelation. 00:23:20.920 --> 00:23:22.480 And the knowledge of him. 00:23:23.140 --> 00:23:24.920 So Paul trusts that the Spirit. 00:23:25.100 --> 00:23:27.259 Will bring to the church a knowledge of the truth. 00:23:27.559 --> 00:23:29.259 And reveal it to those areas. 00:23:29.500 --> 00:23:31.980 Where their thinking may be out of step. 00:23:32.200 --> 00:23:34.019 With the pattern of Christ. 00:23:34.879 --> 00:23:36.639 But he's not going to address all of that right now. 00:23:36.819 --> 00:23:37.559 They have the word. 00:23:37.900 --> 00:23:38.740 They have the spirit. 00:23:39.059 --> 00:23:40.619 And the spirit will guide them. 00:23:41.539 --> 00:23:43.500 And so he can say in verse 16. 00:23:44.099 --> 00:23:46.119 Therefore let us walk. 00:23:47.019 --> 00:23:47.680 So church. 00:23:48.220 --> 00:23:49.119 Conduct yourselves. 00:23:49.339 --> 00:23:50.720 As one commentator put it. 00:23:51.079 --> 00:23:51.859 As soldiers. 00:23:52.220 --> 00:23:53.839 Who march in a line together. 00:23:54.039 --> 00:23:56.259 Organized each in his proper position. 00:23:56.259 --> 00:23:58.079 In step with this pattern. 00:23:58.079 --> 00:24:02.460 The church is called to find that cadence. 00:24:02.960 --> 00:24:04.779 And the rhythm set by Christ himself. 00:24:05.879 --> 00:24:07.659 This is really what Paul's been saying. 00:24:08.419 --> 00:24:12.039 Paul, Timothy, Epaphroditus, Silas when he was in prison. 00:24:12.299 --> 00:24:14.139 They're following the pattern of Christ. 00:24:14.500 --> 00:24:16.480 As they minister to the church in Philippi. 00:24:16.559 --> 00:24:19.419 They're pressing on to keep that march. 00:24:19.779 --> 00:24:21.619 Along with Jesus Christ the commander. 00:24:21.619 --> 00:24:26.239 And he gives them five points of sameness. 00:24:26.599 --> 00:24:26.719 Okay. 00:24:27.019 --> 00:24:29.059 There are those trying to come in and divide the church. 00:24:29.179 --> 00:24:30.119 And confuse you. 00:24:30.439 --> 00:24:34.299 There's five ways that you all have the same instructions for marching. 00:24:35.159 --> 00:24:37.959 The five points in verses 16 and 17. 00:24:38.159 --> 00:24:38.339 He says, 00:24:38.339 --> 00:24:41.839 By the same rule, let us be of the same mind. 00:24:41.939 --> 00:24:42.539 Verse 17. 00:24:42.639 --> 00:24:44.939 Brethren, join in following my example. 00:24:45.559 --> 00:24:46.980 And note those who so walk. 00:24:47.279 --> 00:24:49.419 As you have us for a pattern. 00:24:50.379 --> 00:24:51.939 So the same rule. 00:24:53.519 --> 00:24:57.079 A rule is like a rope that's exactly one meter. 00:24:57.799 --> 00:25:01.339 We're going to use this rope as our perfect standard for measuring something. 00:25:01.459 --> 00:25:04.899 If someone's off by a couple extra inches or less inches than that. 00:25:05.179 --> 00:25:07.500 You're going to end up with very different measurements in the end. 00:25:07.500 --> 00:25:09.500 We have the same rule. 00:25:09.980 --> 00:25:12.880 Our one meter rope is our Lord Jesus Christ. 00:25:13.380 --> 00:25:14.279 Ephesians 5.1. 00:25:14.400 --> 00:25:17.500 Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 00:25:17.779 --> 00:25:23.819 And walk in love as Christ also has loved us and given himself for us. 00:25:24.059 --> 00:25:26.140 So church, you have one rule. 00:25:26.500 --> 00:25:27.539 And it's Jesus Christ. 00:25:28.220 --> 00:25:30.059 Number two, you have the same mind. 00:25:30.880 --> 00:25:32.519 And that's the mind of Jesus Christ. 00:25:33.119 --> 00:25:34.839 That's what Ephesians 2 is all about. 00:25:34.839 --> 00:25:38.299 It's Jesus Christ who humbled himself as a slave. 00:25:38.819 --> 00:25:43.359 He sacrificed himself out of love to save his bride. 00:25:43.779 --> 00:25:44.939 A people for himself. 00:25:45.480 --> 00:25:46.299 Have that mind. 00:25:46.720 --> 00:25:49.480 That you so love the bride of Christ, the church. 00:25:50.000 --> 00:25:52.639 That you are not thinking only of your own interests. 00:25:52.740 --> 00:25:55.559 But you're becoming a slave among his people. 00:25:56.319 --> 00:25:57.039 The same rule. 00:25:57.139 --> 00:25:57.859 The same mind. 00:25:58.279 --> 00:26:01.159 There's also the same invitation that holds the church together. 00:26:01.160 --> 00:26:07.480 In the Greco-Roman world, this classical method of teaching involved imitation. 00:26:08.860 --> 00:26:15.120 Those Greek philosophers would tell their students, follow my way of living and thinking and talking. 00:26:15.460 --> 00:26:17.060 You need to grow and become this way. 00:26:17.759 --> 00:26:26.180 If someone's going to be trained classically to play the piano or violin or cello, they're going to be studying the great masters and imitating those great pieces. 00:26:26.180 --> 00:26:29.600 Before they become creative and innovative in that field. 00:26:30.420 --> 00:26:31.940 So Paul is alluding to this. 00:26:32.440 --> 00:26:34.700 But he also uses a word that's very obscure. 00:26:34.880 --> 00:26:37.620 It's not found anywhere else in the original language. 00:26:38.259 --> 00:26:40.860 And for us, it takes several words to explain it. 00:26:41.600 --> 00:26:42.900 In verse 17, he says, 00:26:43.320 --> 00:26:45.500 Join in following my example. 00:26:46.100 --> 00:26:47.360 That's all one word in Greek. 00:26:47.820 --> 00:26:49.160 Join in following my example. 00:26:49.160 --> 00:26:55.160 Because no one else used this word, it's possible that Paul even, like Shakespeare, made up this word. 00:26:55.220 --> 00:26:59.019 He put words together to get at a meaning that he needed them to understand. 00:27:00.480 --> 00:27:05.060 It suggests a collective or communal aspect of imitating. 00:27:05.900 --> 00:27:07.800 Join in following my example. 00:27:08.200 --> 00:27:13.300 It's a shared pursuit of emulating a particular standard. 00:27:13.299 --> 00:27:22.659 So what does Paul mean by calling the church to follow and join in together following this pattern that he himself is trying to follow? 00:27:24.419 --> 00:27:26.659 He's already said that he's not perfect. 00:27:27.259 --> 00:27:28.700 So he's calling the church to say, 00:27:28.839 --> 00:27:36.159 Look, church, let your imperfections like mine drive you back again to the perfect redeemer. 00:27:36.819 --> 00:27:38.359 Follow my example in that. 00:27:39.259 --> 00:27:41.339 That when I don't put confidence in the flesh, 00:27:41.339 --> 00:27:48.599 I go instead to the one whose righteousness God will accept that covers me by faith alone. 00:27:50.039 --> 00:27:55.319 Follow my example, church, in resting again and again in Jesus Christ. 00:27:56.099 --> 00:27:57.379 And enjoy his presence. 00:27:57.480 --> 00:28:00.639 Because the joy of the Lord, it will stir your heart up. 00:28:01.279 --> 00:28:04.559 Because you've rested so much in him to be restless. 00:28:05.039 --> 00:28:06.639 To see more of his kingdom come. 00:28:06.640 --> 00:28:11.400 Follow my example in wanting the kingdom of God to come. 00:28:11.780 --> 00:28:13.180 And to press on with joy. 00:28:13.860 --> 00:28:15.880 And to call others, to disciple others. 00:28:16.280 --> 00:28:17.800 And march following King Jesus. 00:28:18.000 --> 00:28:19.500 Follow my example this way. 00:28:21.040 --> 00:28:23.820 To joyfully lose everything in this life. 00:28:24.220 --> 00:28:28.980 Because gaining Christ Jesus is the greatest treasure of my soul. 00:28:29.540 --> 00:28:30.460 Follow this pattern. 00:28:30.460 --> 00:28:33.940 The church also has the same assignment. 00:28:35.000 --> 00:28:35.779 He tells the church, 00:28:36.259 --> 00:28:39.120 Note those who so walk. 00:28:40.019 --> 00:28:41.640 Note those who so walk. 00:28:43.340 --> 00:28:45.840 Identify Christ-like lives. 00:28:47.120 --> 00:28:47.700 Celebrate. 00:28:48.319 --> 00:28:48.620 Honor. 00:28:49.400 --> 00:28:49.920 Examine. 00:28:50.460 --> 00:28:50.900 Study. 00:28:51.440 --> 00:28:51.960 Analyze. 00:28:52.120 --> 00:28:52.680 Discuss. 00:28:53.200 --> 00:28:54.440 Desire such a walk. 00:28:54.440 --> 00:29:02.380 On our book table, I was really happy to see that the Puritan treasures for today are almost all gone. 00:29:03.200 --> 00:29:09.960 And that means that our congregation has an appetite to note and learn from those from 400 years ago. 00:29:10.700 --> 00:29:13.580 And grow in Christ-likeness through their example. 00:29:13.820 --> 00:29:14.539 We'll restock that. 00:29:14.600 --> 00:29:17.140 You need to get one of those if you missed it this first time around. 00:29:17.200 --> 00:29:17.640 We'll get more. 00:29:18.259 --> 00:29:19.180 That's our assignment. 00:29:19.380 --> 00:29:21.500 Is note those who walk like Christ. 00:29:21.500 --> 00:29:28.039 And then there's the same living example, which is your fathers in the faith. 00:29:29.599 --> 00:29:33.539 He says, imitate Timothy as Timothy imitates me as I imitate Christ. 00:29:33.700 --> 00:29:34.500 But I'm sending you Epaphroditus. 00:29:35.460 --> 00:29:37.799 See, these are living examples in the congregation. 00:29:38.839 --> 00:29:42.240 These are people who you're going to watch them suffer up close and personal. 00:29:43.259 --> 00:29:44.000 Note their lives. 00:29:44.079 --> 00:29:45.779 You need living examples as well. 00:29:46.579 --> 00:29:50.240 And he says, walk having us as your pattern. 00:29:50.240 --> 00:29:59.900 God blesses the congregation with elders and deacons who the congregation is invited to examine, test their lives. 00:30:00.019 --> 00:30:04.279 They're not perfect, but in their imperfections, they rest again in the perfect Redeemer. 00:30:04.779 --> 00:30:08.240 And invite you to find that kind of grace and rest in Christ. 00:30:08.240 --> 00:30:15.559 One of our brothers mentioned to me, he's got a few kids, and he mentioned each one starts walking a little bit earlier. 00:30:16.240 --> 00:30:19.099 And it's because they have more living examples around the house. 00:30:19.200 --> 00:30:21.819 You can see how they get themselves up off the ground. 00:30:21.940 --> 00:30:27.180 And even though their heads are really disproportionate and get top-heavy, they can start taking some steps. 00:30:27.460 --> 00:30:30.559 And having a living example gives you such good help. 00:30:31.200 --> 00:30:34.400 You know, if you grew up as an only child, you had to learn everything the hard way. 00:30:34.460 --> 00:30:36.120 You didn't just get to watch and then imitate. 00:30:36.119 --> 00:30:44.119 When we're learning from a living pattern, picture soldiers training and learning to march. 00:30:45.059 --> 00:30:50.199 You watch, then you check yourself, you correct where you need to, and then you continue. 00:30:50.919 --> 00:30:52.799 You don't stop practicing and trying. 00:30:53.579 --> 00:30:55.639 So check, correct, continue. 00:30:56.179 --> 00:30:58.159 That's how we march out the Christian life. 00:30:58.419 --> 00:30:59.599 And we do it together. 00:31:00.319 --> 00:31:00.839 It's a joy. 00:31:00.839 --> 00:31:00.859 It's a joy. 00:31:06.119 --> 00:31:11.939 King Jesus also warns his army to guard their thoughts with careful prudence. 00:31:12.759 --> 00:31:17.099 See, I couldn't leave this off because this is part of the drill sergeant's instructions. 00:31:18.000 --> 00:31:20.479 Jesus said in Matthew 7, 13 and 14, 00:31:21.039 --> 00:31:22.959 Narrow is the way that leads to life. 00:31:23.379 --> 00:31:24.559 Few it is that find it. 00:31:25.439 --> 00:31:27.459 But wide is the way that leads to death. 00:31:27.519 --> 00:31:29.319 And many walk that path. 00:31:29.319 --> 00:31:34.220 So he warns his army to guard their thoughts with careful prudence. 00:31:35.220 --> 00:31:42.559 See, in the midst of these joyous truths of the gospel, the church in Philippi has conflicting emotions. 00:31:42.700 --> 00:31:43.919 We keep seeing this in Philippians. 00:31:44.000 --> 00:31:47.579 There's great exalted joy in Christ, but then there's the pebble in the boot. 00:31:48.439 --> 00:31:50.220 There's those who he's called dogs. 00:31:50.779 --> 00:31:54.000 There's those who are seeking glory for themselves instead of God. 00:31:54.099 --> 00:31:55.039 And here it is again. 00:31:55.039 --> 00:31:58.399 And we wonder the same things, don't we? 00:31:59.379 --> 00:32:04.599 Why is it that most who claim to be Christian talk so little about Jesus and his kingdom? 00:32:05.779 --> 00:32:08.319 That should make us wonder, what's going on? 00:32:08.960 --> 00:32:13.799 Why do most pastors who claim to be Christian talk so much about things of this world? 00:32:15.220 --> 00:32:16.659 Have you noticed this or is it just me? 00:32:18.299 --> 00:32:24.019 Why do most people not want to mature or to march in Christlikeness? 00:32:24.019 --> 00:32:26.299 Well, in our flesh, no one wants this. 00:32:26.440 --> 00:32:30.539 But if you truly love Jesus, won't you treasure him more and more and more and more? 00:32:32.900 --> 00:32:34.259 In verse 18, he says, 00:32:34.359 --> 00:32:42.160 For many walk, many walk, of whom I have told you often and now tell you, even weeping, 00:32:42.599 --> 00:32:45.639 that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ. 00:32:47.000 --> 00:32:49.759 These words are so strong, they're almost shocking. 00:32:49.759 --> 00:32:55.920 See, these are not merely neutral outsiders that Paul can ignore. 00:32:57.420 --> 00:33:02.900 These people are evidently too close to the church for Paul to remain detached from them. 00:33:04.200 --> 00:33:06.960 They cause Paul tears of grief, he says. 00:33:08.119 --> 00:33:10.740 People assume these are friends of the cross, 00:33:11.160 --> 00:33:16.240 but their walk, their way of life and their religion, it must be addressed. 00:33:16.240 --> 00:33:19.960 In verse 19, Paul says, 00:33:20.740 --> 00:33:25.620 Their end is destruction, their God is their belly or their appetite, 00:33:26.000 --> 00:33:31.000 and their glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things. 00:33:31.940 --> 00:33:34.660 They walk with their minds on earthly things. 00:33:36.279 --> 00:33:40.079 It's not that they outright reject the cross, that's why he has to clarify. 00:33:40.359 --> 00:33:42.180 These are enemies of the cross, people. 00:33:42.500 --> 00:33:43.319 Don't be deceived. 00:33:43.319 --> 00:33:48.339 It's that the cross has no bearing on their life. 00:33:49.220 --> 00:33:50.379 That's what's concerning. 00:33:52.539 --> 00:33:58.059 They can't say, Jesus Christ is my Lord, because they are still enslaved to Satan. 00:33:59.179 --> 00:34:02.480 They take pride in the flesh one way or the other. 00:34:03.099 --> 00:34:05.439 They love the flesh more than God. 00:34:05.440 --> 00:34:10.780 Whether it's circumcision or being enslaved to the lust of the flesh. 00:34:11.200 --> 00:34:17.400 Whether it's dietary law keeping or unredeemed fleshly cravings. 00:34:17.519 --> 00:34:18.840 That's what they love more. 00:34:19.679 --> 00:34:21.360 That's what they have an appetite for. 00:34:23.440 --> 00:34:28.139 Their hunger is not for Christ and the righteousness that comes from God. 00:34:28.139 --> 00:34:31.859 Their hunger is for more and more glory for themselves. 00:34:34.599 --> 00:34:40.339 To be an enemy of the cross, one commentator named Bachmuel said, 00:34:40.420 --> 00:34:45.259 it means to trust in human wisdom and influence rather than in God's redemption 00:34:45.259 --> 00:34:51.039 accomplished through the apparent weakness and folly of the crucified Messiah. 00:34:51.039 --> 00:35:03.079 Have you noticed, quote unquote churches, where their focus is getting butts in seats and cash in the coffers 00:35:03.079 --> 00:35:08.460 instead of faithfully discipling the souls that Christ Jesus purchased with his blood 00:35:08.460 --> 00:35:10.900 and whom he's entrusted to their care? 00:35:12.679 --> 00:35:17.119 Where there's no cross, the fungus will grow. 00:35:17.119 --> 00:35:20.699 The cross is like the light of God's glory. 00:35:21.659 --> 00:35:28.139 Someone shared at an Advent service, there was not a single mention to the name of Jesus Christ. 00:35:28.960 --> 00:35:37.259 We've been to funerals where the mention of eternal life was detached from sin and our need for God as our Savior. 00:35:37.759 --> 00:35:43.119 See, these are places that claim to be churches and they don't preach the cross of Jesus Christ. 00:35:43.819 --> 00:35:46.699 To say they don't preach the cross is to not preach the whole gospel. 00:35:47.119 --> 00:35:53.559 It's to have a different God, a different God, and a man-centered way of viewing ourselves. 00:35:54.400 --> 00:35:57.639 And all of those things diminish the glory of the Savior. 00:35:58.219 --> 00:35:59.099 Who needs Jesus? 00:36:02.920 --> 00:36:06.759 Where there's no light in a room, mold and fungus begins to grow. 00:36:07.319 --> 00:36:08.579 And it'll take something over. 00:36:08.659 --> 00:36:12.019 It'll take over a living organism, suffocate it, and kill it. 00:36:12.019 --> 00:36:19.860 Where the light of Jesus Christ on the cross, his person and work is not preached. 00:36:20.840 --> 00:36:23.739 In that place, Christ cannot be treasured. 00:36:24.900 --> 00:36:29.719 And there a devaluing of Jesus Christ begins to spread like a fungus. 00:36:30.719 --> 00:36:32.900 And the end is destruction. 00:36:32.900 --> 00:36:37.940 Paul says there are many like this. 00:36:38.480 --> 00:36:40.119 Most like this. 00:36:40.440 --> 00:36:41.119 It's numerous. 00:36:42.119 --> 00:36:45.059 And he says this with tears in his eyes. 00:36:48.639 --> 00:36:52.860 The Bible says that all will give account according to Christ's clear commands. 00:36:52.860 --> 00:36:57.920 You see the contrast of false assurance, a false church? 00:36:58.519 --> 00:36:59.480 Look at the contrast. 00:36:59.920 --> 00:37:02.360 The hope for the army of Christ is in verse 21. 00:37:02.539 --> 00:37:03.220 Take a look there. 00:37:04.579 --> 00:37:08.940 True followers of Jesus will share in Christ's resurrection. 00:37:10.840 --> 00:37:14.340 But go back to this warning in verse 19. 00:37:14.340 --> 00:37:18.480 Paul says this with weeping as we do. 00:37:19.780 --> 00:37:24.180 Those who don't treasure Christ, their end is destruction. 00:37:25.720 --> 00:37:28.860 Ezekiel prophesies about the final coming and the judgment. 00:37:29.220 --> 00:37:30.440 Ezekiel 7, 19. 00:37:31.420 --> 00:37:34.380 And that day, those who thought they were God's covenant people, 00:37:34.460 --> 00:37:36.500 they thought they were Christians, thought they were saved, 00:37:36.980 --> 00:37:38.880 they will throw out their golds. 00:37:39.220 --> 00:37:41.680 They won't have an appetite to eat any food 00:37:41.679 --> 00:37:45.799 because they know that food and gold can't deliver them 00:37:45.799 --> 00:37:48.539 on the day of God's wrath. 00:37:50.940 --> 00:37:53.839 This is a warning that Christians can't ignore. 00:37:55.199 --> 00:37:58.559 A gathering of people claiming to be a church of Jesus Christ 00:37:58.559 --> 00:37:59.960 that neglects the cross 00:37:59.960 --> 00:38:04.819 and instead very obviously treasures anything other than the person of Christ 00:38:04.819 --> 00:38:07.980 and his work of love for us, 00:38:07.980 --> 00:38:11.920 that group is like a bloated corpse 00:38:11.920 --> 00:38:14.639 filled with flesh-eating fungus. 00:38:15.179 --> 00:38:16.619 The whole thing is going to decay 00:38:16.619 --> 00:38:19.840 and anything attached to it will face the same destiny, 00:38:19.960 --> 00:38:20.900 which is destruction. 00:38:22.019 --> 00:38:24.139 How do we warn those we love? 00:38:25.440 --> 00:38:26.760 How do we proclaim the gospel 00:38:26.760 --> 00:38:29.579 to those who have a false assurance of salvation? 00:38:29.579 --> 00:38:34.880 We need to be ones who march after King Jesus 00:38:34.880 --> 00:38:36.219 and we heed this warning 00:38:36.219 --> 00:38:39.299 to guard our thoughts carefully, 00:38:39.860 --> 00:38:41.019 be discerning, 00:38:41.699 --> 00:38:42.480 have prudence, 00:38:42.579 --> 00:38:44.819 make sure you treasure Christ, 00:38:45.500 --> 00:38:47.199 preach his cross and him alone. 00:38:49.279 --> 00:38:52.779 Well, the fourth movement in this passage, 00:38:53.440 --> 00:38:55.460 verses 20 and 21, is this. 00:38:55.460 --> 00:38:58.539 King Jesus strengthens his army 00:38:58.539 --> 00:39:02.699 to march on in his gospel power. 00:39:03.300 --> 00:39:06.079 King Jesus strengthens his true army, 00:39:06.199 --> 00:39:07.000 his true followers, 00:39:07.139 --> 00:39:09.340 to march on in his gospel power. 00:39:10.900 --> 00:39:12.659 I see in these two verses 00:39:12.659 --> 00:39:14.960 four injections of energy 00:39:14.960 --> 00:39:17.900 to keep his people marching together. 00:39:18.019 --> 00:39:18.940 Number one, he says, 00:39:19.059 --> 00:39:22.460 rejoice and press on because of your status. 00:39:22.800 --> 00:39:24.199 If Jesus is your king, 00:39:24.199 --> 00:39:26.599 he says, then you're already a citizen. 00:39:27.219 --> 00:39:27.719 Verse 20, 00:39:28.079 --> 00:39:30.799 for our citizenship is in heaven. 00:39:32.779 --> 00:39:34.000 Now to the Philippians, 00:39:34.059 --> 00:39:36.619 this means you belong to the commonwealth, 00:39:36.719 --> 00:39:38.179 you belong to the Roman Empire. 00:39:38.579 --> 00:39:40.299 That's their connotation of citizenship. 00:39:41.339 --> 00:39:44.659 This means you get a legal judicial process. 00:39:45.480 --> 00:39:47.919 You get an all-inclusive access 00:39:47.919 --> 00:39:50.159 to all the blessings and privileges 00:39:50.159 --> 00:39:52.299 of belonging to the kingdom 00:39:52.299 --> 00:39:53.599 that's powerful. 00:39:55.000 --> 00:39:56.539 It means that you're a citizen. 00:39:56.699 --> 00:39:58.500 You're free of those crippling taxes 00:39:58.500 --> 00:40:00.539 that were imposed on enemies 00:40:00.539 --> 00:40:01.500 that they had conquered. 00:40:02.739 --> 00:40:04.839 And Paul says, rejoice and press on. 00:40:05.259 --> 00:40:07.480 Your citizenship is in heaven. 00:40:08.879 --> 00:40:10.759 You don't just have a green card. 00:40:11.219 --> 00:40:13.639 You're not waiting on red tape or bureaucracy. 00:40:14.739 --> 00:40:15.980 You're not sitting there hoping 00:40:15.980 --> 00:40:17.439 for limited spots available 00:40:17.439 --> 00:40:18.939 that you'll get picked out of a lottery. 00:40:18.940 --> 00:40:23.159 You're already a citizen of heaven. 00:40:23.159 --> 00:40:27.460 This should change the way we view one another. 00:40:27.460 --> 00:40:28.980 Would you just take a moment 00:40:28.980 --> 00:40:30.099 and look around you, 00:40:30.299 --> 00:40:31.879 smile, nod at one another? 00:40:32.960 --> 00:40:34.599 You are citizens of heaven. 00:40:35.799 --> 00:40:37.859 You're surrounded by citizens 00:40:37.859 --> 00:40:42.859 of the deepest reality of the cosmos. 00:40:43.119 --> 00:40:43.399 Heaven. 00:40:43.400 --> 00:40:47.660 The undeniable spiritual realm. 00:40:47.700 --> 00:40:50.780 The kingdom that is without end. 00:40:51.280 --> 00:40:53.619 The very presence of the holy, 00:40:54.039 --> 00:40:57.280 unshakable creator God of all. 00:40:57.280 --> 00:41:00.500 You are citizens of his kingdom 00:41:00.500 --> 00:41:02.180 and no one can take that from you 00:41:02.180 --> 00:41:04.340 if you are in Jesus Christ. 00:41:05.680 --> 00:41:07.200 If you're a citizen of heaven, 00:41:07.320 --> 00:41:08.000 here's how you know. 00:41:08.000 --> 00:41:11.119 No other colors, 00:41:12.320 --> 00:41:13.539 no other banner 00:41:13.539 --> 00:41:17.280 will stir up more patriotism in your soul 00:41:17.280 --> 00:41:20.920 than the banner of God's love 00:41:20.920 --> 00:41:22.659 for you in Jesus 00:41:22.659 --> 00:41:25.239 and the crimson color of his blood 00:41:25.239 --> 00:41:27.400 that gave you the citizenship. 00:41:30.219 --> 00:41:31.619 Rejoice and press on. 00:41:33.199 --> 00:41:35.360 It says rejoice and press on also 00:41:35.360 --> 00:41:37.300 because your king is coming again. 00:41:37.300 --> 00:41:38.240 In verse 20, 00:41:38.680 --> 00:41:40.380 we eagerly wait for the Savior 00:41:40.380 --> 00:41:42.200 from the kingdom of heaven, 00:41:42.740 --> 00:41:45.000 the Lord Jesus Christ. 00:41:45.620 --> 00:41:46.460 How do we wait? 00:41:46.840 --> 00:41:47.340 Eagerly. 00:41:48.600 --> 00:41:49.560 Why do we wait eagerly? 00:41:49.700 --> 00:41:51.960 Because the Savior is coming. 00:41:53.220 --> 00:41:55.820 He's coming from the kingdom of heaven 00:41:55.820 --> 00:41:57.180 and it's none other than 00:41:57.180 --> 00:41:59.060 the Lord Jesus Christ who you know, 00:41:59.380 --> 00:42:00.500 the one who purchased you, 00:42:00.800 --> 00:42:02.060 the one who is your Savior. 00:42:02.200 --> 00:42:03.460 He's coming again. 00:42:03.820 --> 00:42:05.700 So rejoice, press on, 00:42:05.699 --> 00:42:07.939 waiting eagerly for his return. 00:42:10.159 --> 00:42:12.199 Number three, rejoice and press on 00:42:12.199 --> 00:42:14.960 because of your future state. 00:42:16.519 --> 00:42:17.559 Rejoice and press on 00:42:17.559 --> 00:42:18.939 because of your future state. 00:42:19.039 --> 00:42:20.879 If the Lord Jesus Christ is your Savior, 00:42:21.259 --> 00:42:23.079 you can know in verse 21 00:42:23.079 --> 00:42:24.519 that he will transform 00:42:24.519 --> 00:42:28.379 or transfigure your lowly body 00:42:28.380 --> 00:42:31.000 that it may be conformed 00:42:31.000 --> 00:42:33.480 to his glorious body. 00:42:33.480 --> 00:42:40.139 when a human being saw an angel 00:42:40.139 --> 00:42:41.460 that lives in heaven, 00:42:41.980 --> 00:42:44.199 we fall down and tremble in fear. 00:42:45.139 --> 00:42:46.500 And that's just an angel 00:42:46.500 --> 00:42:48.000 that are like God's slaves. 00:42:48.159 --> 00:42:48.860 They do his bidding. 00:42:50.179 --> 00:42:52.019 How is it that humans like us 00:42:52.019 --> 00:42:53.500 can be in the presence, 00:42:53.639 --> 00:42:55.059 the courts of God in heaven 00:42:55.059 --> 00:42:58.119 unless God will transform our bodies 00:42:58.119 --> 00:42:59.059 so that we fit, 00:42:59.400 --> 00:43:00.179 we belong, 00:43:00.179 --> 00:43:01.739 we'll be conformed 00:43:01.739 --> 00:43:03.759 to his glorious body. 00:43:05.440 --> 00:43:07.259 We can rejoice and press on 00:43:07.259 --> 00:43:08.940 because this will happen 00:43:08.940 --> 00:43:10.000 by God's power. 00:43:10.559 --> 00:43:12.039 He will carry us all the way there. 00:43:12.500 --> 00:43:14.299 It's the power of the Almighty One 00:43:14.299 --> 00:43:16.379 who promises this to his people. 00:43:16.480 --> 00:43:17.699 In verse 21, he says, 00:43:18.139 --> 00:43:18.919 he'll do this 00:43:18.919 --> 00:43:20.579 according to the working 00:43:20.579 --> 00:43:22.259 by which he is able 00:43:22.259 --> 00:43:24.460 even to subdue all things 00:43:24.460 --> 00:43:25.779 to himself. 00:43:25.780 --> 00:43:29.019 Some of you are marching. 00:43:30.019 --> 00:43:31.640 You're serving very faithfully, 00:43:31.820 --> 00:43:32.960 but it's hard. 00:43:33.280 --> 00:43:34.660 Your bodies are falling apart. 00:43:35.240 --> 00:43:36.200 You feel weak. 00:43:36.340 --> 00:43:37.080 You feel sick. 00:43:37.720 --> 00:43:39.100 You're trying to put one foot 00:43:39.100 --> 00:43:39.820 in front of the other, 00:43:39.900 --> 00:43:40.960 but even just to get here 00:43:40.960 --> 00:43:42.060 this morning was hard. 00:43:42.580 --> 00:43:43.500 The spirit is willing, 00:43:43.620 --> 00:43:44.620 but the flesh is weak. 00:43:45.100 --> 00:43:45.840 You're not perfect, 00:43:45.940 --> 00:43:46.820 but you're doing your best 00:43:46.820 --> 00:43:49.160 to rest in the perfect Redeemer. 00:43:51.740 --> 00:43:53.320 Rejoice and press on 00:43:53.320 --> 00:43:54.680 together with the church 00:43:54.679 --> 00:43:57.659 1 Peter 4.13, 00:43:57.759 --> 00:43:59.339 to the extent that you partake 00:43:59.339 --> 00:44:00.559 in Christ's sufferings 00:44:00.559 --> 00:44:01.899 in this life, 00:44:02.239 --> 00:44:03.019 when his glory 00:44:03.019 --> 00:44:04.779 is one day revealed fully, 00:44:04.899 --> 00:44:06.259 you will also be glad 00:44:06.259 --> 00:44:07.659 with exceeding joy. 00:44:08.059 --> 00:44:09.219 Remember that he left 00:44:09.219 --> 00:44:10.379 his exalted throne 00:44:10.379 --> 00:44:11.759 in his heavenly kingdom. 00:44:12.159 --> 00:44:13.119 He humbled himself 00:44:13.119 --> 00:44:14.539 to be a slave 00:44:14.539 --> 00:44:16.379 and to die on the cross for you. 00:44:16.699 --> 00:44:17.339 And the Father 00:44:17.339 --> 00:44:19.179 has now highly exalted him 00:44:19.179 --> 00:44:20.679 and given him the name 00:44:20.679 --> 00:44:21.859 that it is above 00:44:21.859 --> 00:44:23.219 every name. 00:44:23.619 --> 00:44:24.279 And he promises 00:44:24.280 --> 00:44:25.680 you march after me now 00:44:25.680 --> 00:44:27.440 and you're in this pattern 00:44:27.440 --> 00:44:28.360 of redemption 00:44:28.360 --> 00:44:29.820 with me to the end. 00:44:31.260 --> 00:44:32.740 Share in my cross now, 00:44:33.100 --> 00:44:35.019 you'll share in my crown later. 00:44:35.580 --> 00:44:37.100 Share in my sufferings now, 00:44:37.260 --> 00:44:38.540 and I'm sharing with you 00:44:38.540 --> 00:44:40.380 my glory and honor 00:44:40.380 --> 00:44:41.740 in the next life. 00:44:42.880 --> 00:44:44.260 So we take note. 00:44:44.940 --> 00:44:46.820 We take note of the promises 00:44:46.820 --> 00:44:48.640 and the lives that have trusted 00:44:48.640 --> 00:44:50.360 and marched after King Jesus. 00:44:50.360 --> 00:44:54.519 Paul marching after King Jesus 00:44:54.519 --> 00:44:55.340 to the very end 00:44:55.340 --> 00:44:56.460 was not disappointed. 00:44:58.260 --> 00:44:59.940 We can look at brothers and sisters 00:44:59.940 --> 00:45:00.400 we know, 00:45:00.559 --> 00:45:01.140 family members 00:45:01.140 --> 00:45:02.340 who walk very closely 00:45:02.340 --> 00:45:03.079 with the Lord, 00:45:03.539 --> 00:45:04.780 those simple actions, 00:45:05.220 --> 00:45:06.900 coming to be with the Lord's people, 00:45:07.220 --> 00:45:07.940 hearing his words, 00:45:08.079 --> 00:45:08.940 singing and praying 00:45:08.940 --> 00:45:10.059 and taking the Lord's Supper 00:45:10.059 --> 00:45:11.180 to the very end, 00:45:11.660 --> 00:45:12.720 the simple obedience 00:45:12.720 --> 00:45:14.460 of marching with his church. 00:45:15.360 --> 00:45:16.760 There's no better preparation 00:45:16.760 --> 00:45:17.539 for the soul. 00:45:17.539 --> 00:45:19.420 That thin veil, 00:45:19.699 --> 00:45:20.920 when you pass from this life 00:45:20.920 --> 00:45:21.659 into the next, 00:45:22.199 --> 00:45:23.400 he is with his people 00:45:23.400 --> 00:45:25.279 when we celebrate him together. 00:45:25.400 --> 00:45:27.000 There's no better preparation, 00:45:27.340 --> 00:45:28.599 as simple as it is. 00:45:29.059 --> 00:45:30.039 So press on. 00:45:31.039 --> 00:45:32.559 Press on by his strength, 00:45:32.880 --> 00:45:35.059 and you too will not be disappointed. 00:45:36.179 --> 00:45:37.279 King Jesus says this 00:45:37.279 --> 00:45:38.380 to you and me, his army. 00:45:39.739 --> 00:45:41.400 Remember who I am. 00:45:41.400 --> 00:45:44.659 I am the ruler of all. 00:45:44.659 --> 00:45:47.199 I am able to subdue 00:45:47.199 --> 00:45:49.519 all things to myself. 00:45:50.420 --> 00:45:52.179 My power and dominion 00:45:52.179 --> 00:45:53.599 have no end. 00:45:54.819 --> 00:45:55.500 And you, church, 00:45:55.559 --> 00:45:57.639 you are my beloved fellow soldiers. 00:45:58.119 --> 00:45:58.759 You are the ones 00:45:58.759 --> 00:46:00.119 I have called out by name. 00:46:00.519 --> 00:46:01.259 You are the ones 00:46:01.259 --> 00:46:03.179 that I am training to march. 00:46:03.879 --> 00:46:04.920 I make you able 00:46:04.920 --> 00:46:05.980 to press on together 00:46:05.980 --> 00:46:08.420 because I pressed on for you. 00:46:08.779 --> 00:46:10.420 I make you able to live 00:46:10.420 --> 00:46:12.639 as already dead to this world 00:46:12.639 --> 00:46:15.699 because I died to this world for you. 00:46:16.299 --> 00:46:17.339 And I make you able 00:46:17.339 --> 00:46:19.539 to finish this life well 00:46:19.539 --> 00:46:22.259 because I finished well for you. 00:46:22.920 --> 00:46:25.480 And when I receive your soul to me, 00:46:26.299 --> 00:46:29.519 my joy in you will be made full. 00:46:30.099 --> 00:46:31.039 That's how King Jesus 00:46:31.039 --> 00:46:32.199 trains us as church 00:46:32.199 --> 00:46:33.879 to march on to the end. 00:46:34.619 --> 00:46:35.859 Let's pray in response, 00:46:36.359 --> 00:46:37.319 asking for his help 00:46:37.319 --> 00:46:39.139 and resting in the joy 00:46:39.139 --> 00:46:40.779 that he has gone before us. 00:46:40.780 --> 00:46:42.840 We'll see you next time 00:46:42.840 --> 00:46:43.220 for the next one. 00:46:43.220 --> 00:46:45.460 I'll see you next time. 00:46:45.920 --> 00:46:46.360 Bye-bye. 00:46:46.600 --> 00:46:47.180 S build up 00:46:47.180 --> 00:46:49.680 in response 00:46:50.340 --> 00:46:51.280 Yes!