Untitled Sermon (3)

Philippians 4:1–9 ESV

Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved. I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

Intro: The Guantlet in Youth Group

Big Idea: Stand firm, side by side in the Lord.

Explain: v. 1

Three Essentials to Stand Firm Together

1) Agreement in the Lord's Calling (v. 1-3)

Explain: Awkward. “Agree = Have the Same Mind (2:2), contrasts 3:15 (mind set on earthly things)” “side-by-side,” “book of life” (Eschatalogical hope)… (we are all headed to the same destination where there will be perfect alignment… let’s get there together… HELP THEM!

Illustrate: Disagree on car directions… is the “shortcut” really a “shortcut”

Apply: Think about all the things we COULD disagree about… focusing on the MAIN thing (knowing and proclaiming Jesus) will help us stay side by side

2) Satisfaction in the Lord's Sovereignty (v. 4-7)

Explain: Double “rejoice.” But how? All these concerns. Reasonableness comes from knowing God is in control. I can pray and he answers. He gives peace.

Illustrate:

Apply: Do you try to produce joy through fretting or faithful praying?

3) Preoccupation with the Lord's Quality (v. 8-9)

Explain: The quality of Christ, The example of Paul, someone wrapped up in Christ.

Illustrate: Merry-Go-Round of life - dizzying... pick a point and go towards it together

Apply: Do you have stable examples to follow? Where will you look when the opinions of this world get dizzying?