Sermons
Sermons from Bay Vista Baptist ChurchA Church that Refuses to Be Led Astray
Paul switches from running images to military ones, as he encourages the church at Philippi to stand firm, just as a Roman guard would when he was acting under orders. Realizing that this world will be hostile to our efforts, we must be sure that we are committed to living for Christ in this world, while looking forward with an expectant hope that something greater is coming.
A Church Racing Ahead
Paul uses the image of a runner to describe how he strives for continuing his Christian journey, and he encourages the church at Philippi to imitate him in this. We, too, should strive to run our race through its completion, both for our own good and the good of those who are racing after us.
A Church's Right Perspective
Perspective is the way we view things; it comes from our particular vantage point. Paul shared his perspective, which is one that churches should have. For everything we have that we think is good, we should be willing to give it up to gain the only thing worth having or doing - knowing Christ.
A Church Forewarned
As Paul shifts from his focus on unity, he warns the church at Philippi to be wary of people who would add anything as a condition of salvation. If Jesus’ work is sufficient, it needs nothing added; and, if it needs something added, it is not sufficient. Legalism is a trap that can rob us of our joy, and even our ability to worship in spirit and truth.
A Church that Celebrates Heroes
Paul takes what seems to be a break from his discussions of unity and strength; what he is really doing, though, is highlighting the faithful service of Timothy and Epaphroditus. May God raise up men and women of faith of who the same thing can be said, and may those people be you and I.
A Shining Star Church
Paul continues his thought from earlier in this chapter, as he encourages the Philippian church to be a shining star in the world. We, too, should follow his exhortation to actively live out our faith in a positive manner, contrary to the abundant negativity in the world, and to be known for our joy even in the face of trials.
A Church's Chief Example
Today, we look at a passage of Scripture known as the “hymn of Christ.” While it does contain some amazing truths about Jesus, when we read it in the context of the letter, Paul is telling the church at Philippi that He is the example for them to follow, as they work to live in unity.
A Church of Like Mind
Following his prior encouragement to the believers in Philippi, Paul tells them that the best way for them to be able to stand was through unity - being of like mind with one another. No matter how unified we are, we can always work for a deeper unity within the body of Christ.
A Church That Stands Together
Paul encouraged the believers in Philippi to walk worthy of their faith, being united with one another as they stand. He also reminded them that they may suffer for the cause of Christ.
A Church That Learns Joy no Matter What
In today’s passage, Paul continued talking about circumstances. We can have joy knowing that fellow believers are praying for us; and, we know that in life, or even in death, God can receive glory from our lives.