Philippians 1:21-30

Introduction

Welcome

Pre-Scripture Prayer

Scripture

Philippians 1:21–30 CSB

21 For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful work for me; and I don’t know which one I should choose. 23 I am torn between the two. I long to depart and be with Christ—which is far better—24 but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. 25 Since I am persuaded of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that, because of my coming to you again, your boasting in Christ Jesus may abound. 27 Just one thing: As citizens of heaven, live your life worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or am absent, I will hear about you that you are standing firm in one spirit, in one accord, contending together for the faith of the gospel, 28 not being frightened in any way by your opponents. This is a sign of destruction for them, but of your salvation—and this is from God. 29 For it has been granted to you on Christ’s behalf not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are engaged in the same struggle that you saw I had and now hear that I have.

Preface

Famous verse 21, “to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

repeat

Chinese Christians illustration

To live is Christ and to die is gain

Recap Paul’s teachings

personal affection

personal update

zooms out

Text today essentially speaks to and answers the three biggest questions that exist

What is the purpose of my life?

What happens when I die?

How should I live my life?

Let’s start with the first question

What is the purpose of my life?

If you google this question…

Wikipedia - to elevate the world around you

NPR - survival

Dalai Lama - happiness

Reader’s Digest - living a meaningful and intentional life

Let’s look at how Paul talks about purpose

Philippians 1:21–26 CSB

21 For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful work for me; and I don’t know which one I should choose. 23 I am torn between the two. I long to depart and be with Christ—which is far better—24 but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. 25 Since I am persuaded of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that, because of my coming to you again, your boasting in Christ Jesus may abound.

Internal struggle - expound

Death is better

To remain is more necessary for your sake - your sake?

Paul says, “for me” - meaning for a christian

the purpose is to make Christ known!

What is the implication of this purpose? to know Christ! (non-christians)

What happens when I die?

If you google this question...

your spirit is a wave and your energy moves on

reincarnated to live life again as a new creature

you receive your own planet for you family to populate

your are in your own personal paradise

nothing

Let’s look at how Paul talks about death

Philippians 1:21–23 CSB

21 For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful work for me; and I don’t know which one I should choose. 23 I am torn between the two. I long to depart and be with Christ—which is far better—

to die is gain?

to depart and be with Christ is far better?

Look at how the Bible describes it:

· John 14 tells us we will dwell with Jesus in mansions

· Revelation 21 tells us that there will be pearl gates and streets of gold

· Hebrews 12 tells us it will be a city designed for worship

· Revelation 7 tells us that all nations and people will worship Jesus

· Revelation 7 goes on to say it will be filled with peace, joy, and praise

· Revelation 22 tells us there will be healing among the nations

Revelation 22 goes on to tell us that we will see Jesus face to face and live in His light forever

But once again this is “for me” for Paul - who has been saved by grace through faith

Thus is not the case for those who haven’t

Eternal Judgement - might sound harsh but… God won’t force you to live with Him forever - expound

How should I live my life?

If you google this question...

Define happiness on your terms. ... Strive to be a better version of yourself every day. ... Be kind to your body. ... Set goals—and plan how to achieve them. ... Prioritize the things (and people!) that matter.

live in the moment

embrace the now

What does Paul say…?

Philippians 1:27–30 CSB

27 Just one thing: As citizens of heaven, live your life worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or am absent, I will hear about you that you are standing firm in one spirit, in one accord, contending together for the faith of the gospel, 28 not being frightened in any way by your opponents. This is a sign of destruction for them, but of your salvation—and this is from God. 29 For it has been granted to you on Christ’s behalf not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are engaged in the same struggle that you saw I had and now hear that I have.

what does it mean to live worthy?

backwards implication

Closing Thoughts/Invitation

Holy Spirit Led