Looking Back and Pressing On

Here’s a sermon outline for Philippians 3:12-14, perfect for a "year in review" message:

Title: "Looking back and Pressing on"

Text: Philippians 3:12-14

Introduction

Reflect on the past year: highs and lows, achievements, and struggles.

Emphasize Paul’s perspective: even as a mature believer, he saw himself as a work in progress. Key question: How can we press on with purpose as we enter the new year?

I. Acknowledge the Process (Verse 12)

"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal..."

Subpoint: Growth Requires Humility

Paul, a spiritual giant, admits he hasn’t "arrived." This humility allows room for God to work in us (James 4:6).

Application:

Reflect on personal growth over the past year: where has God stretched or refined you? Acknowledge unfinished areas, not as failures but as opportunities for grace and growth.

II. Focus on the Pursuit (Verse 13a)

"Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead..."

Subpoint: Let Go of the Past

Forgetting doesn’t mean erasing memories but refusing to let past mistakes, regrets, or even successes define us. Instead, focus on what God is calling us to next.

Application:

What burdens from the past year need to be surrendered to God? Encourage the congregation to leave failures, grudges, or regrets at the foot of the cross as they step into the new year.

III. Press Toward the Prize (Verse 14)

"I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

Subpoint: Keep an Eternal Perspective

The "prize" Paul speaks of is not earthly success but the ultimate fulfillment of God’s calling. Our daily lives should reflect this heavenly goal (Colossians 3:2).

Application:

Challenge the congregation to set spiritual goals for the new year: deepen prayer life, serve others, grow in faith. How does focusing on Christ shape priorities and decisions for the coming year?

Conclusion: A Thoughtful Application

Reflect: Encourage the congregation to take time this week to prayerfully review the past year.

Ask: Where has God been faithful? Where have I seen growth? Where is God calling me to press on? Surrender: Create a moment in the service for people to symbolically let go of past baggage—perhaps through silent prayer or writing something down to leave behind. Commit: Invite everyone to dedicate the new year to pursuing Christ with renewed purpose and passion. Close with this charge:

Paul’s journey reminds us that the Christian life is a marathon, not a sprint. Let’s run it well, with our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:1-2).

Communion time will follow.