Eyes on the Prize

by | Oct 23, 2022 | Joy Together, Sermon

It’s not uncommon to find people who begin to pursue Christ with unbridled enthusiasm only to see them falter when life gets hard. A believer who pursues Christ must do so with a Spirit-empowered perspective. Paul had a deep desire to know Jesus more and more. And he wanted his life to count. That’s why he pressed on to win the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. He knew the value of godly examples and reminded himself and others of a heavenly citizenship soon to be fully experienced.

It’s clear that Paul was a man obsessed with wanting to know Jesus. What does it mean to know Jesus? How are you getting to know Jesus better?

When we pursue Jesus, we are to do so with single-minded devotion. Read Phil. 3:14 and compare the verse to 1 Cor. 9:24-27. What similarities do you notice? Based on these verses, how would you describe the Christian life?

Read Phil. 3:16. The verse encourages us to live up to the knowledge we already have. What biblical truths have you known for a while but are having difficultly practicing? What dangers do you see in seeking more and more biblical knowledge without putting into practice the truths you already know?

How could Paul confidently urge the Philippians to follow his example (Phil. 3:17)? Why was this suggestion not self-centered? (Compare with 1 Cor. 4:14-16 and 1 Cor. 11:1) Who have been your most encouraging examples and why?

Maintaining an eternal perspective is vital to successful Christian living. Read Phil. 3:20-21. What do you learn about your future that gives you hope in living for Jesus here and now?

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