Jul 22, 2014
“Soul Satisfaction—A Study in Philippians”
Are We There Yet?
Philippians 3:12-4:1
Paul’s Confession . . .
1. As followers of Christ, we are not perfect like Christ.(v.12)
· We are all in process. (Philippians 1:6, 9-11; 2:12-13; 1 Corinthians 13:11-12)
2. As followers of Christ, we should live in constant pursuit of fully knowing and becoming like Christ. (v.12-13)
· Pursuing Christ-likeness brings much glory to God. (2 Peter 3:18)
· Pursuing Christ gives evidence of a life transformed by Christ, and the power of His Spirit in us.
o It displays the truth of the gospel to a culture in need of God’s great salvation. (Philippians 2:14-16)
· We press on by not becoming distracted by what we have considered loss. (v.13)
· We press on by fixing our eyes on Christ who is the prize of surpassing worth. (v.13-14) (Hebrews 12:1-2)
3. As followers of Christ, those who are maturing in their faith are determined to pursue knowing Christ. (v.15-16)
· A maturing follower of Christ realizes his/her imperfection.
· A maturing follower of Christ refuses to settle in his/her faith.
· A maturing follower of Christ recognizes the conviction of the Spirit of God.
Paul’s Challenge . . .
· Be careful to follow the example of those who are running the race well and growing in their faith.(v.17-19)
o It is crucial that a follower of Christ has someone who challenges and encourages them to pursue Christ.
§ Be careful of those who have become distracted and are chasing after what is counted loss.
§ Remember that we are awaiting the prize of eternity with Christ, who is of surpassing worth.
§ In your pursuit of Christ, stand firm.
Making it Practical . . .
1. I’m not where I need to be spiritually, but I am in process.
2. As a follower of Christ, my desire should be to pursue Him with passionate determination.
3. As I mature as a follower of Christ, I realize how far I have to go but refuse to settle where I am by remaining sensitive to the Spirit of God who is at work in me.
4. I need to be encouraged and mentored by those who are growing in their faith, and not run the race alone.