Empowered Through Christ

Philippians 4:2-13

Dear brothers and sisters, today we gather to reflect on the empowering words of Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." These words, spoken by the Apostle Paul, echo through the ages, reminding us of the boundless strength available to us through our faith in Christ.

This verse is the theme of the entire book and it’s stated by the apostle Paul.

Our topic today is how we can be empowered through Christ,, which helps us to know our contentment in Christ

I have mentioned in my previous sermons, I spoke about the journey the disciples took with Jesus. And how he walked with them side-by-side and then showed them miraculous signs and miracles. That gave them a lot more connection and a relationship with him. Throughout the Bible, we can see how relationships were powerful and foundational to the work and sacrifice for the greater good. Even today, people do this because of relationships built to give us meaning and purpose to attend particular churches, fraternity sororities, and even schools. Just to name a few.

Paul on the other hand is Unique in his relationship with Jesus. Yes, the Apostle Paul did encounter Christ, but not during Christ's earthly ministry. Paul, originally known as Saul, was a Pharisee who persecuted early Christians. and we know or speak about his conversion on the road to damascus.

Our series Knowing Christ deals with the statement that Paul relies on Jesus who gives him everything. Paul showed us in the chapter 3 that He made the best trade ever in losing everything on the road to damascus to choose Christ. Therefore leaving room to grow and be empowered to do all things. the defintion of empowered means having the confidence, skills, and autonomy to make decisions and take actions that influence one's own life and circumstances. It involves having access to the resources, knowledge, and opportunities needed to shape one's future and contribute meaningfully to society. we been working on our confidence in sharing our evangelistic story on Wednesday nights. Lets see how he discovered this and how we can as well.

Start Reading Phil.4:2-13 2Now I appeal to Euodia and Syntyche. Please, because you belong to the Lord, settle your disagreement. 3 And I ask you, my true partner,[b] to help these two women, for they worked hard with me in telling others the Good News. They worked along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are written in the Book of Life.

The story of Euodia and Syntyche in Philippians 4 is a brief but significant mention, highlighting the importance of unity and reconciliation within the Christian community.Here, Paul addresses a disagreement or conflict between two women, Euodia and Syntyche, who were prominent members of the church in Philippi. Although the nature of their disagreement is not specified, it was significant enough for Paul to mention it in his letter.

Paul's plea to Euodia and Syntyche to "be of the same mind in the Lord" emphasizes the need for unity and harmony among believers. He acknowledges their contributions to the work of the gospel and asks a trusted companion (likely a leader in the Philippian church) to assist in resolving their conflict.

4 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! 5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.[c]

Paul has been saying this since chapter 2 and even in chapter 3 he says I don’t get tired of saying this. He places emphasis on the 2nd greatest fruit from the Lord. I say that because of the order in which the apostle list the fruits of the spirit.

Talk about you incorporate items from Sunday and Wednesday night. How this church asked that we connect everything we do.

6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.

Point 1: Everything begins with Prayer

Prayer gives us Spiritual connection as well as focus ad clarity. without that you will miss the mark every-time. Prayer can help center the mind, reduce distractions, and bring clarity to thoughts and intentions

Your Prayer Gives God Permission

7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.

Point 2: God’s Peace is Powerful

The second point emphasizes the powerful abundance of spiritual riches available to us in Christ. In Ephesians 1:3, we are reminded that we have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ.

Proverbs 2:1-5 (MSG) 1-5 Good friend, take to heart what I’m telling you; collect my counsels and guard them with your life. Tune your ears to the world of Wisdom; set your heart on a life of Understanding. —if you make Insight your priority, and won’t take no for an answer. Searching for it like a prospector panning for gold, like an adventurer on a treasure hunt, Believe me, before you know it Fear-of-God will be yours; you’ll have come upon the Knowledge of God.

What is this series trying to do for us? to Know Christ

Point 3 Knowing Christ

In Philippians 4:11, Paul writes, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances." Paul's contentment was not dependent on his surroundings or material possessions but rooted in his relationship with Christ. Similarly, we are called to find our satisfaction in the unchanging love and presence of our Savior, rather than in the world's fleeting pleasures. When we anchor our contentment in Christ, we experience a peace that surpasses understanding, regardless of our circumstances. Our relationship in Christ deepens the Father we explore and mature in our fruits of the spirit.

11 Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.

Transcends Understanding, Guards Hearts and Minds, Brings Inner Calm, Facilitates Reconciliation, Offers Hope, and Empowers for good Works

When we focus on these eternal blessings rather than temporary earthly treasures, we discover a deeper sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. Our hearts are filled with gratitude for God's grace and provision, leading to contentment that is not contingent on material wealth or worldly success. Our resilience and fortitude we gain, because of our relationship with Christ. Life is fraught with challenges, and there are moments when we feel overwhelmed and powerless. Yet, in those moments of weakness, we can turn to Christ for strength. He is our anchor in the storm, our refuge in times of trouble. When we face adversity, we can cling to the promise of Philippians 4:13, knowing that we are not alone. With Christ by our side, we can endure hardships, persevere through trials, and emerge victorious on the other side. Our struggles become opportunities for growth, and our weaknesses are transformed into testimonies of His grace. When Paul declares, "I can do all things," he isn't speaking from a place of arrogance or self-reliance, but rather from a deep understanding of the power of God working within him. As believers, we are not bound by our limitations or the constraints of the world, for we have a divine source of strength at our disposal. Through Christ, we can overcome any obstacle, through Christ we can achieve any goal, through Christ we can withstand any trial. Our potential is not defined by our circumstances but by the boundless grace of God.

Point 3: Trusting in the Provision of God(12-13)

12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. 13 For I can do everything through Christ,[d] who gives me strength.

Finally, we are called to walk in faithful obedience to God's will, trusting in His provision and guidance. The journey of empowerment begins with surrendering our will to His, allowing His strength to work through us. As we align our lives with His purpose, we discover a newfound sense of confidence and assurance. Every step we take in faith is a testament to His faithfulness and a demonstration of His power. When we live in accordance with His word, we experience the fullness of His strength, enabling us to live victoriously and impact the world around us for His glory.

Lastly, we are called to trust in God's provision and sovereignty over our lives. Jesus reassures us in Matthew 6:33, "Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." When we prioritize our relationship with Christ and seek His kingdom above all else, we can trust that God will meet our needs according to His riches in glory. Our contentment is grounded in the assurance that God is faithful to provide for us and fulfill His promises. As we surrender our worries and anxieties to Him, we experience a profound sense of peace and contentment that comes from resting in His loving care. God calls us to put our trust in him and take a risk for his kingdom

Conclusion:

Overall, Paul's strong relationship with Christ was the result of a life transformed by grace, a sense of divine calling and commission, a deep knowledge of Scripture, an intimate personal relationship with Christ, and a steadfast commitment to following Christ's example, even in the face of adversity.

In Philippians 4:13, Paul expresses his confidence in the empowering presence of Christ in his life. He likely made this statement to emphasize the transformative power of Christ in overcoming challenges, fulfilling God's purposes, and living a life of faithfulness.

Edwin Blum said this

The Spirit within a believer satisfies his need of God, and provides him with regeneration, guidance, and empowerment.

Edwin Blum

Philippians 4:13, helps to remind us of the immense privilege we have as children of God. We are not left to navigate life's challenges alone but are empowered by the limitless strength of Christ. May we embrace our potential, find strength in adversity, and walk in faithful obedience, knowing that through Christ, we can do all things. They say that

God Rejoices when godly men take risks for him

As we are in this evangelism journey lets step out on faith for Him.