Sermons
Sermons from Bay Vista Baptist ChurchA 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.
A Church Where the Gospel Flows...Regardless!
While none of us like bad circumstances, God can use them for His purposes - spreading the gospel to places it hasn’t been before, and inspiring others. God works wherever the gospel is proclaimed, regardless of the motivation of those doing the proclaiming.
A Church of Growing Love
Paul continues his letter by sharing with the church at Philippi what he prayed for them. They already were a church that demonstrated great love, but his prayer for them was that it would continue to grow even more, never ceasing to overflow from their hearts.
A Church to Be Thankful For
In contrast to the churches Peter was addressing in his letters (which we studied last year), the church at Philippi was a strong, thriving church. Paul opens his letter to them by thanking God for them, and letting them know specifically why he was so grateful to them as a church.
Forget; Forward - Focus!
Paul encouraged his readers to forget any claim they had to being good in and of themselves; rather, they needed to move forward, focusing on the end goal. 2,000 years later, we too must press toward the goal of holiness, as we look forward to our eventual prize, perfect and complete union with Jesus Christ.
Unto Us a Child Is Born
Scripture describes Jesus as the Light of the world. As we look back over the four candles of Advent, we see how the newly arrived Baby truly brings hope, peace, joy, and love to us, and has commissioned us to share His love with our world.