Comunidad y discipulado

One Life to Live (Phi. 1:19~30)

2014.07.06Rev. Mike Lee

Paul's words in Philippians 1:19-30 call us to live with an eternal perspective and a gospel perspective. For him, to live is Christ and to die is gain, so Christ alone is worth living for and worth dying for.

Rejoicing through prayer and the Spirit's help (vv. 19-26)

Paul writes from chains, facing a possible execution, yet he begins with the words, Yes, I will rejoice. He knows his deliverance will come through the prayers of the Philippians and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ. Most of us struggle to wake up grateful even without a prison sentence, so Paul's joy rebukes us and reminds us to thank God for what he has given. The Christian life was never meant to be lived alone, and our prayers for one another carry real weight. We need to know one another well enough to pray sincerely.

Christ is worth living for and dying for

For me to live is Christ and to die is gain. Paul is so captivated by Jesus that he would count even death an honor, because he knows where he is going. Whether he is released or executed, he wins. Like the certainty of 1 Corinthians 15, death is not the end but a homecoming to be with Jesus forever. Paul measures every ambition, whether wealth, knowledge, power, or fame, against Christ alone. Do we see Jesus as worth dying for?

Live with your expiration date in view

Everything in this world has an expiration date, and we do not know ours. I once kept my clothes and shoes so carefully that I never wore them, and they only wasted away. Our lives are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes, as James 4 says. If we remember that our time is limited, we will use our gifts, act more boldly, and look for chances to serve. How will we live the life God has given us?

A life worthy of the gospel stands together in unity (vv. 27-30)

Paul calls us to let our manner of life be worthy of the gospel, so that we stand firm in one spirit and strive side by side for the faith. This means humility, seeking unity across our differences, and considering others as better than ourselves. The gospel looks big when people from many nations stand together as one. We stand together not because we are already perfect, but because we are still being shaped by grace.

Fearless faith that leaves comfort zones behind

Although we in Korea do not face danger for being Christians, a gospel perspective pushes us out of our routines and comfort zones. Our faith should be stretched, and our community should reach beyond itself. Suffering for the gospel is a sign of our salvation, and Jesus blesses those who are persecuted for righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Christ is our victor, so we can stand with courage against every opposition.

Apply to Life

  • Let us pray sincerely for one another and stop leaving church as soon as the service ends.
  • Let us each aim to meet at least one new person every week and get to know them better.
  • Let us remember our expiration date and use the gifts God has given us without hoarding them.
  • Let us examine our hearts and ask whether Christ is worth living for and dying for.
  • Let us step out of our comfort zones and stand firm together for the gospel.

This summary was made automatically from the sermon's captions and may differ from the sermon.

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