Baccalaureate 2017

Philippians 3:12–16 NKJV

Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you. Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us be of the same mind.

You have graduated what is your calling?

God’s promises about the future are certain because it is under God’s control. Christians should live on the basis that these promises, which focus on the return of Jesus Christ, will be fulfilled.

Now that you are starting your new life and pressing forward to your higher calling. How do you know

Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

How will we live for the future?

Philippians 1:21–23 NLT

For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don’t know which is better. I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me.

We have to Continue to look forward rather than looking backward, this your charge don't let the past keep you from a great future,

Isaiah 43:18–19 NLT

“But forget all that— it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.

Keep your eyes focused on Christ and Like His word says He will make a path for you wherever you are.

Hebrews 12:1–2 NLT

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.

Scripture indicates that the world, including human beings and institutions, are imperfect because of the contaminating influence of sin. This influence extends to the household of faith: both Israel and the Christian church are portrayed as prone to sin and weakness.

In closing Stay focused on the prize and look upward to the call Christ has given us in His word.