Sermon: Encouragement To Press On

Subject: Encouragement to Press On

Text: Philippians 3:7-14

“But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

Introduction: The book of Philippians is Paul’s personal journey to spiritual maturity. Paul has found true contentment and confesses his joy in all circumstances. He has learned to live with selfless humility like Christ, while esteeming others better than himself. He is writing from a Roman prison, but instead of complaining, he perseveres through hardship by focusing on his future goal of advancing the gospel. Paul, while imprisoned, emphasizes that true joy comes from within and from Christ, not from possessions or circumstances. He also stresses the importance of being focused, content, and invested in God's kingdom. This will require our time, talent, and even our treasure.

How can we find joy in all situations and contentment in all circumstances? Paul found it all in Christ Jesus. In Philippians 2:5-11, Paul said, “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”

At a time when most where seeking titles, promotion and places of honor, Paul found contentment in Christ. Despite being in prison, Paul wrote about having joy, teaching that it is a mindset and not dependent on external circumstances. He learned to be content. He learned to be content in both abundance and need. His inner strength came from his relationship with God, in Christ Jesus. So much so, that He confessed, I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me.” Paul’s inspiring testimony of commitment forces us to look at our own lives—do we have the strategy we need to overcome our challenges? Or do we let our failures derail our dreams? And what could we accomplish if we were committed enough and had the strength not to give up?

Paul, who is the writer of our text, developed faith and strength not to give up. So, Paul provides a strategy for us and the Philippian Church here in this text. As we move forward to become the best that we can be for Christ. As we seek to deepen our commitment and practice our faith, we will need a strategy. This message is not for the complacent one; it is for those who are setting their sights towards the higher call of God. The Apostle Paul gives this church his personal testimony. Paul was never one to let circumstances conquer him. Rather, with the help of God, he was determined to fulfill his God-given purpose. In this text, Paul’s attitude, dedication, determination, and commitment shines through in a powerful way.

As men and women of God who have different perspectives, needs, and desires, if we are to run this race successfully, we will need a strategy. There are so many things that attract our attention, so many goals to reach until it is difficult to stay focused during confusing times. How can we reach our potential for Christ? How can we give it our best? How can they stay focused during these difficult days? How can we deepen our commitment and practice our faith in these confusing times?

Apostle Paul set a good example on how to succeed in the Christian race. He ran his race with a wholehearted commitment and gave every effort to win Christ. He wants the Philippian Church to strive for excellence. He understood the high price to be paid because he was paying it himself. It will take diligence and exertion to attain what God desired for them and for every one of us, but the price is worth the effort. The central theme of the book is having the mindset of Christ. The word "mind" is used approximately 12 times and the word “think” is used 10 times carrying the idea of one's mindset, attitude, or way of thinking in the book of Philippians.