A Life Set Apart

Philippians 2:12-18.

Announcements

Fall Retreat- The cost is $25. If not able to pay do not let that stop you. We will find a sponsor. Just talk to me, or text me!

High School Small Group on Friday. It is not too late to join, we would love to have you!

FCA on Thursdays @ Middle and high. 7:40 for high school, check on middle.

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30 Gospel Conversation-3

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Last thing. When our worship band is leading, i expect you all to respect them. I am not going to force you all to sing I understand it can be uncomfy but i encourage you all to do so. But what I do expect is for you all to not talk or to be a distraction. These guys sacrifice time, energy and effort to be able to lead and to do it well. So i ask to not disrespect them, or to distract those around you who are looking to worship during this time. Lets have a fun rest of the night worshipping the Lord together, and then diving into His word!

Pray

Introduction

Illustration: The Lighthouse

Picture a lighthouse standing tall on a rocky shore, its bright beam cutting through the darkness of night. Ships at sea rely on this guiding light to navigate safely to shore, avoiding treacherous waters and hidden dangers. The lighthouse is distinct; it does not blend in with the surrounding landscape. Instead, it stands apart, a beacon of hope and safety.

In the same way, as believers, we are called to be lighthouses in a world often shrouded in darkness. Philippians 2:15-16 tells us that we are to “shine like stars in the universe” as we hold out the word of life. Just as the lighthouse is set apart from its surroundings, so too are we called to live lives that reflect Christ's light and love, standing against the currents of culture that seek to pull us under.

When the lighthouse keeper maintains the light and ensures it shines brightly, he plays an essential role in guiding ships to safety. Likewise, our obedience to God and our commitment to living out our faith is what allows His light to shine through us. We are set apart not just for our sake, but for the sake of others who are lost in the darkness, needing guidance and hope.

As we explore Philippians 2:12-18, let’s reflect on how we can shine brightly as those set apart, fulfilling our purpose in a world that desperately needs the hope found in Christ. This illustration sets the stage for discussing what it means to be set apart in faith, emphasizing the importance of living distinctively in a way that impacts others.

Read

Philippians 2:12–18 “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me.”

Pray

Context

We are Work out Your Faith. V.12-13

Exposition

Illustration- The Clockmaker

Imagine a skilled clockmaker who dedicates his life to crafting beautiful, intricate clocks. Each clock is a masterpiece, with gears and springs that come together in perfect harmony. The clockmaker pours his heart into his work, ensuring that every piece is precisely aligned and functioning as it should.

One day, he decides to teach his apprentice the art of clockmaking. He shows him how to assemble the gears and install the pendulum. However, the apprentice becomes frustrated. He wants to put his own spin on things, believing that he can make the clock better with his own ideas. The clockmaker patiently insists that the apprentice must follow the design he has laid out. “Trust the process,” he says. “When you work in obedience to the design, you will see the clock come to life.”

As the apprentice begins to follow the clockmaker’s instructions, he starts to see how each component works together. It dawns on him that obedience is not about losing creativity or individuality; it’s about aligning himself with a greater purpose. When he finally completes his first clock, it ticks perfectly, and he feels a deep sense of accomplishment.

This illustrates Philippians 2:12-13: “Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” Just as the apprentice learned that obedience to the clockmaker's design allowed him to create something beautiful, we, too, are called to work out our salvation in obedience, trusting that God is at work within us, guiding us toward His perfect plan.

Application

We are to be a light in a dark place. V.14-16

Exposition

Illustration

Matthew 5:15–16 “Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

Application

We are to Rejoice daily, no matter the circumstance . V.17-18

Exposition

Illustration- The Baker

Consider a baker who rises before dawn each day to prepare fresh bread for the community. As the sun begins to rise, the warm, inviting aroma of baking bread fills the air. Each loaf represents not just a meal, but a source of comfort and joy for those who will enjoy it.

One morning, a customer comes in, looking weary and burdened. The baker greets him with a warm smile and offers him a freshly baked loaf. As the customer takes the bread, he notices the baker humming a cheerful tune. Curiously, he asks, “How can you be so joyful when you’re up so early and working hard?

The baker replies, “Every loaf I make is a chance to nourish and bring joy to others. I might be exhausted, but I rejoice in knowing that my work provides sustenance and warmth to my neighbors. It’s not just about the bread; it’s about the love and joy I get to share with each person who walks through that door.”

In Philippians 2:17-18, Paul expresses a similar sentiment: “Even if I am being poured out like a drink offering… I am glad and rejoice with all of you.” Just as the baker finds joy in serving his community, we too can find reasons to rejoice daily, even when we feel poured out by our commitments.

Every act of service, every moment of love shared, becomes an opportunity for joy. In our daily lives, let’s embrace the spirit of the baker, finding joy in the impact we have on others and celebrating the blessings we are able to share.

Application

Small Group Questions

How do you need to work out your faith daily?

In what ways can you be a light in a dark place?

How can you remain joyful even days that are hard?