Shine Brightly for Christ

(Philippians 2:12-28)

You have followed my instructions when I was with you, but now its even more important

In school you learn and then take a test and I believe God works in a similar way

1. (V12) Work hard to show the results of your salvation

a) By obeying God

Philippians 2:8 “he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.”

If Christ humbled Himself in obedience to God, we must humble our self in obedience to christ

1 Samuel 15:22 “ Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.”

b) He gives you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him

Hebrews 13:21 “may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.”

2. (V14) Do everything without complaining and arguing (ATTITUDE)

a) Stop complaining / arguing

Even when your parents ask you to clean your room (Without complaining and arguing)

In stead of complaining, begin to praise God for all that He has done for you

b) (Why?) To avoid being criticized

c) (Purpose?) Shine like a bright light in the dark world

3. (V16) Hold Firmly to the Word of Life

a) Don’t let the Word of God leave you, meaning, read it, Know it, and live it

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b) Paul says, work hard to show the results of your salvation, through obeying God, living your life in a way that the unbelievers can not criticize you, hold firmly to the word of God

Then I will be proud, knowing my work was not in vain

At camp when you guys came forward, that was our reward in pouring into you guys for the past three years (I know that I am not running in vain)

4. (V17) Share in the Joy